Comprising Coupling Part Of Indeterminate Length Laterally Of Connection Patents (Class 439/214)
  • Patent number: 11444418
    Abstract: A replaceable socket device includes adapters and a base. Each of the adapters include a jack and contacts disposed on a bottom of the adapters. The base includes sockets, an adapting interface disposed on the socket, and a coupling interface coupled to the adapting interface and an external power source. Each socket includes a bottom surface and a sidewall perpendicularly connected to the bottom surface. One of the adapters inserts in the socket via an opening formed by the bottom surface and the sidewall. The adapting interface is utilized to connect the socket and one of the adapters. The coupling interface is configured to conduct electrical signal from the external power source to the adapting interface. The structure of the adapting interface is used for allowing one of adapters to couple to the socket via the adapting interface. The adapting interface is lower than the bottom surface of the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2022
    Assignee: ENERGY FULL ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Xushen Jin
  • Patent number: 11289863
    Abstract: A smart adapter includes an insulating body, a plug fastened to the insulating body, at least one socket, at least one seven-segment displayer, at least one button and a main control unit. The at least one socket is mounted in the insulating body and is exposed to a front surface of the insulating body. The at least one seven-segment displayer is mounted in the insulating body. The at least one button is mounted in the insulating body and is exposed to the insulating body. The main control unit is mounted in the insulating body and is connected with the at least one socket, the plug and the at least one seven-segment displayer. The main control unit includes a cloud unit and a central processing unit. The cloud unit is connected to the at least one button and the central processing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2022
    Assignee: CHENG UEI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wen-Bing Hsu, Chin-Huang Tseng, Hui-Lin Lai
  • Patent number: 11276970
    Abstract: A combination outlet assembly includes a single piece integrally formed housing having first and second outlet cores respectively having a similar outer shape and profile but differently shaped sets of three terminal apertures, and three terminals associated with each respective set of three terminal apertures in the first outlet core and the second outlet core. The first outlet core and the second outlet core may be interchangeably used with power cord plug connectors of different types. Power cord latching features are also described. Power distribution units may include a number of combination outlet assemblies ganged together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2022
    Assignee: CIS Global LLC
    Inventor: Karl Klaus Dittus
  • Patent number: 10923928
    Abstract: The USB interface comprises an electronic member comprising at least one USB jack, and connector elements able to connect each USB jack to cabling, and a support case, configured to be fastened on the handrail of the urban public transport vehicle, and including a housing for the electronic member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2021
    Assignee: Alstom Transport Technologies
    Inventors: Thomas Prevost, Sébastien Taillandier
  • Patent number: 10892583
    Abstract: An expandable and upgradeable universal socket, including a socket body and a function module. The function module is replaceable and upgradeable, and is detachably fixed to the socket body. A power circuit of the function module is separably connected to a power circuit of the socket body to enable the function modules to plug and play. A space is provided in the socket body to accommodate the functional module, and a surface of the socket body is provided with a function area corresponding to the function module. Various expanded function modules can be matched and arranged in the reserved space. Small electronic components can be accommodated in the socket bottom box, and the number of external power transformers are reduced, which saves space, reduces exposed wires and beautifies the appearance. There is no need to replace the entire socket when upgrading the socket, which is environmentally friendly and energy saving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2021
    Inventor: Kwok Leung Chan
  • Patent number: 10862334
    Abstract: An energy harvesting device is configured to surround a portion of an electrical cable (4), and includes a plurality of electrically separated and electrically conducting patch members (22, 22?, 24, 24?, 26, 26?) configured to be arranged in such a manner that an electric potential difference (V) is provided between a first outlet point (B) and a second outlet point (A). The patch members (22, 22?, 24, 24?, 26, 26?) are electrically connected to the first outlet point (B) and to the second outlet point (A). The patch members (22, 22?, 24, 24?, 26, 26?) are configured to be attached non-invasively direct onto the electrical cable (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: REMONI APS
    Inventor: Bo Eskerod Madsen
  • Patent number: 10777977
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses provide power from multiple input power sources to adjacent outputs efficiently and reliably. Aspects of the disclosure provide a power distribution unit (PDU) that includes a number of power outputs including first and second adjacent power outputs. The PDU includes a printed circuit board having a first conducting layer electrically interconnected to a first power input connection and the first power output, a second conducting layer that is at least partially above the first conducting layer and in facing relationship thereto. The second conducting layer is electrically insulated from the first conducting layer and electrically interconnected with a second power input connection and the second power output, the first and second power outputs thereby connected to different power inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Assignee: SERVER TECHNOLOGY, INC.
    Inventors: Carrel W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly
  • Patent number: 10608395
    Abstract: A rotary socket includes a main case for installing a main control member and a plurality of rotary socket units. The socket unit includes an inner chamber for receiving a partition therein, at least one terminal installed on one side of the partition, and at least one conductive element installed on the other opposite side of the partition and connected to the at least one terminal by a flexible cable. The partition includes a through hole for the cable passing therethrough. The through hole is loosely adapted to the cable so that activity range of the cable can match with rotation of the socket unit, thereby further slightly limiting activity range of the cable so as to avoid affecting connection stability of the cable due to its wide range of activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2020
    Assignee: SHENZHEN ANHAORUIHE ELECTRONICS CO., LTD
    Inventor: Xinjiao Chen
  • Patent number: 10535985
    Abstract: A wall mounted rail system for providing additional air flow and electrical outlets to a room. The system includes a first rail removably securable to a second rail, wherein each rail includes a front surface and a rear surface. The rear surface can secure to a wall and a decorative molding, such as chair rail molding, is secured to the front surface. A plurality of ports are disposed on a bottom face of the front surface and can supply power to a device connected to each port. Further, each port is electrically connected to one another. Tubing extends through an interior volume of each rail and plurality of apertures are disposed on a top face of the front surface thereof. Each aperture is in fluid communication with the tubing to allow air to flow from the tubing, through the apertures, and into the room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2020
    Inventor: Sanjeev Jain
  • Patent number: 10490956
    Abstract: An interface module supportable by a support member includes a housing, having an upper portion defining an access opening and a lower portion, and an interface assembly. The interface assembly is mounted to the upper portion at the access opening. The interface assembly includes an interface device, the interface device having an electrical connection element. The lower portion is placeable in a first orientation spaced-apart from the upper portion to provide substantially unhindered access to the electrical connection element, and in a second orientation secured to the upper portion to define an open region between the lower portion and the interface assembly. Examples of the interface device include a utility power interface device, a reduced power electrical interface device, a USB device, an audiovisual interface device, a data interface device, and a communication interface device. The interface module can include rows of interface assemblies overlying the same open region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2019
    Assignee: HAWORTH, INC.
    Inventor: Steven Jay King
  • Patent number: 10424885
    Abstract: Systems and apparatuses are provided in which outlets are coupled to a power distribution unit (PDU) or PDU module in various configurations. The outlets may be coupled to a recessed surface within a PDU housing. The outlets and recessed surface may be formed as part of a single mold. The outlets may be coupled to a printed circuit board that is at least partially disposed within the PDU housing. The outlets may extend away from the recessed surface or printed circuit board towards or beyond a front face of the PDU housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2019
    Assignee: Server Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Travis Irons
  • Patent number: 10340645
    Abstract: A multifunctional socket comprises a main socket module (5) and at least two functional device modules. The functional device modules and the main socket module (5) can be assembled in any manner. At least one of the functional device modules is detachably connected to the main socket module (5). Adjacent functional device modules are detachably connected. At least one of the functional device modules and the main socket module (5) are electrically connected. The adjacent functional device modules are electrically connected. The multifunctional socket enables at least two functional device modules to be integrated into a single device, such that a user can use the components separately or combine the same in any fashion, thereby meeting the needs of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Bestore Europe Holding GmbH
    Inventor: Wenqiang Wu
  • Patent number: 10333284
    Abstract: A power hub includes a base assembly configured to abut a floor surface, a shaft coupled at a lower end to the base assembly, an impact loop coupled to an upper end of the shaft, and an electrical receptacle block housed in the impact loop, wherein an upper portion of the electrical receptacle block is free and is spaced from an upper portion of the impact loop such that in the event the power hub is tipped over, the upper portion of the impact loop absorbs contact with a ground surface to lessen the impact imparted to the electrical receptacle block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Schneider, Mark McKenna, Duck Young Kong
  • Patent number: 10317972
    Abstract: A power distribution unit includes a power input terminal, a main body, plural power-providing units, a coupling module and a hot-swappable module. The plural power-providing units are installed on the main body and electrically connected with plural electronic devices to provide electric power to the plural electronic devices. The coupling module is embedded within the main body. The hot-swappable module is detachably connected with the coupling module. When the hot-swappable module is connected with and disposed within the coupling module, the power distribution unit is in communication with a remote power management unit and/or an adjacent power distribution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Yu-Chi Jen, Chih-Chiang Chan, Chin Lien
  • Patent number: 10303127
    Abstract: Systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed for interfacing process controllers in a process automation system with one or more intelligent electrical devices of an electrical automation system to use process and electrical control space information to perform actions and make decisions regarding actions in a connected enterprise system to facilitate energy management goals as well as process control goals in view of electrical control space information and process control space information. Some embodiments include an enclosure for a Motor Control Center unit, comprising: a DC power supply; an Ethernet switch; a network gateway module; and a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2019
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David C. Mazur, Scott D. Day, Bruce K. Venne
  • Patent number: 10164389
    Abstract: An assembly for breaking out a trunk cable includes: a base having a generally flat surface adapted for mounting to a mounting surface; a shell having a front wall, two side walls extending from opposite sides of the front wall, and two opposed end walls, the side walls of the shell mounted to the base to form a cavity; a plurality of connectors mounted to each of the side walls; a trunk cable routed into the cavity through one of the end walls, the trunk cable comprising a plurality of power conductors; and at least one bus bar mounted to the shell within the cavity, at least one of the power conductors and at least one of the connectors in electrical connection with the bus bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2018
    Assignee: CommScope Technologies LLC
    Inventor: Chi-Ming Wang
  • Patent number: 9716358
    Abstract: A linear power distribution outlet is generally presented. The power distribution outlet includes a housing having at least one side including an opening therein. An insert may be positioned within the housing and formed of an electrically insulating material. The insert may comprise a first slot, second slide and a dividing wall between the first and second slots. The first and second slots may be accessible through the opening in the housing. A first power distribution rail may extend along a length of the insert. The first power distribution rail may be positioned to be exposed to and accessible to the first slot. A second power distribution rail may extend along a length of the insert and may be positioned to be exposed to and accessible to the second slot. The first and second slots may be uniquely shaped and the first and second power distribution rails may be positioned to prevent reverse polarity connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2017
    Assignee: ITC Incorporated
    Inventors: Richard Hartmann, Jr., Edward Schneider
  • Patent number: 9666398
    Abstract: An angled plug-on neutral connector assembly of a circuit breaker. Angled plug-on neutral connector assembly includes a molded case including a bottom plane and a retaining portion, and a neutral connector received and constrained in the retaining portion, the neutral connector including a connector body including first and second prongs, and an opening between the prongs configured to receive a neutral bar. The opening is oriented in an angled orientation to the bottom plane, as defined by a connector angle measured between the bottom plane and a bisector line between the first and second prongs, wherein the connector angle is between about 30 degrees and about 70 degrees. Electronic circuit breakers including the angled plug-on neutral connector assembly, panel boards including angled neutral bars, and methods of making neutral connections between angled neutral bars and angled neutral connectors of circuit breakers are provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2017
    Assignee: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Kristopher Scott Robinson, Jeffrey Kenton Hudgins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9635932
    Abstract: A height-adjustable desk having a desktop, at least one cabinet positioned beneath the desktop, and at least one height-adjustable column. The height-adjustable column has an upper end secured to the desktop and a lower end secured within the cabinet. The height-adjustable column is selectively raised or lowered to move the desktop up or down. The cabinet has a storage compartment, and the lower end of the column is positioned behind the storage compartment. Substantially the entire length of the height-adjustable column is housed within and concealed by the cabinet when the height-adjustable column is in the lower position. The desk also includes various cable management channels and cable tracks to entirely conceal all electrical cable running throughout the desk to power and control the height of the desk, as well as to provide electrical power or other necessary electrical cables for any electrical equipment used on the desktop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2017
    Assignee: Assa Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike R. Kelley, Ryan D. Sullivan, Dante M. Zeppa
  • Patent number: 9627788
    Abstract: An electrical assembly is disclosed in which two flexible printed circuits are electrically joined. This allows greater lengths of flexible printed circuits to be provided, for example for gas turbine engine harnesses. Each flexible printed circuit has a terminating region having electrically conductive through holes that are connected to respective electrical tracks of the flexible printed circuit. The terminating regions are adjacent each other in the electrical assembly, and an electrically conductive pin is passed through the aligned through holes, then permanently bonded in position, for example by welding. This results in a robust, reliable connection of two flexible printed circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: ROLLS-ROYCE plc
    Inventors: Daniel Martin Armstrong, Simon Thomas Cort
  • Patent number: 9590371
    Abstract: An electrical device assembly includes an electrical device and a power input member. The electrical device includes an end portion having a cavity with a mounting surface at a distal portion of the cavity. The power input member includes a body and a power input cable extending from the body. The body has a plurality of faces including first and second mounting faces. The cavity is sized and configured to receive the power input member body: in a first position with the first mounting face facing the mounting surface and with the power input cable extending away from the electrical device in a first direction; and in a second position with the second mounting face facing the mounting surface and with the power input cable extending away from the electrical device in a second direction that is different from the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Jun Yan, Scott Jason Davis
  • Patent number: 9548672
    Abstract: An electric power converter has a stacked body formed by stacking a plurality of semiconductor modules and coolers, a capacitor, and positive and negative bus bars. Each of the bus bars is formed by two sheets of plate members, respectively. Each of the plate members has a body portion, a plurality of extended portions, and a plurality of terminal connecting portions. The terminal connecting portions are connected to power terminals of the semiconductor modules. The main body portion of each plate member are joined to each other so that the terminal connecting portion of the one of the plate members and the terminal connecting portion 44 of the other one of the plate member are disposed alternately in a stacking direction of the stacked body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Makoto Okamura
  • Patent number: 9190760
    Abstract: A plug structure for connecting sockets comprises at least one jack formed at a side of a first socket; and a plug rod disposed on a second socket corresponding to the at least one jack and configured to plug in the at least one jack. The plug rod is electrically contacted with a spring piece in the jack so as to electrify the second socket. A slidable baffle plate is disposed on an inner side of the at least one jack and is configured to cover the jack. A through hole corresponding to the jack is formed in the baffle plate. A slope configured to push the baffle plate is disposed at a position on the baffle plate corresponding to the jack, and is disposed at an edge of the through hole and fitted with the plug rod to push the baffle plate to be inserted into the through hole. The plug structure for connecting sockets according to the present disclosure provides an improvement for a security protection of combined interfaces of the sockets, thus ensuring a security of the combined sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: PowerCubic International Limited
    Inventor: Hing Wai Michael Ma
  • Patent number: 9147985
    Abstract: An expandable and rotatable power strip includes a power cord having configured to deliver electrical current to a distal end. A plurality of primary socket modules is electrically connected to the power cord and to one another, each of the plurality of socket modules having a housing with a socket outlet configured to receive a power plug and to deliver current thereto. Each primary socket module includes a male conduction assembly electrically connected to and extending from a first side of the housing and a female conduction assembly electrically connected to and extending from a second side thereof. A respective male conduction assembly of one primary socket module is rotatably coupled to a respective female conduction assembly of an adjacent primary, the respective male conduction assembly and the respective female conduction assembly configured to transmit current therebetween. The distance between adjacent socket modules is length adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Creative Technologies Investment, Inc.
    Inventor: Aimet Noriega
  • Publication number: 20150126053
    Abstract: A rail-based fastening structure for terminal blocks includes a fastening clip, a positioning rail and a bus body. The fastening clip has a base plate and two side plates each extending upward from the base plate and having an engaging hook. The positioning rail includes a bottom plate and two tracks extending upward and then outward from two opposite sides of the bottom plate, so that the bottom plate and the tracks define a valley. The bottom plate has an opening. The bus body deposited in the valley has a slot and two shoulder portions. The shoulder portions are positioned at two sides of the slot and extend toward the slot. The fastening clip is inserted into the opening through the slot so that the engaging hooks engage with the shoulder portions, respectively. Thereby, the rail-based fastening structure allows quick and convenient mounting/dismounting operation, low manufacturing costs and firm installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Applicant: DINKLE ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Shang Tsai WU
  • Patent number: 8968016
    Abstract: A bus structure includes a positioning rail, a bus body and bus bars. The bus body has a projecting portion and a depressed portion. The projecting portion has a ramp. A terminal block includes a housing and a connector, one of which includes a projecting portion and a depressed portion. The depressed portion has a ramp. Also disclosed is a terminal block assembly formed by combining the bus structure and the terminal block. The projecting portion of one of the housing and the connector engages with the depressed portion of the bus body and the projecting portion of the bus body is inlaid into the depressed portion of one of the housing and the connector, so that the ramps of the bus body and of the terminal block retain each other, thereby effectively preventing reverse combination between the bus structure and the terminal block, and preventing breakage of components thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Dinkle Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shang Tsai Wu
  • Patent number: 8935847
    Abstract: A method for creating laboratory-scale reactive distillation apparatus from provided modular components is described. At least two types of modular distillation column stages are provided. A first type of modular stage comprises two physical interfaces for connection with a respective physical interface of another modular stage. A second type modular stage comprises one such physical interface. At least one type of tray is provided for insertion into the first type of modular stage. A clamping arrangement is provided for joining together two modular stages at their respective physical interfaces for connection to form a joint. The invention provides for at least three modular stages can be joined. At least one sensor or sensor array can be inserted into each modular stage. At least one controllable element can be inserted into each modular stage. The invention provides for study of traditional, advanced, and photochemical types of reactive distillation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Inventor: Lester F. Ludwig
  • Patent number: 8905771
    Abstract: A structure of tree-shaped lighting decoration includes an extension cable assembly, which is a modularized assembly adapted to carry a regular voltage supplied from an electric main and has an end forming a cylindrical socket and an opposite end forming a cylindrical plug, a tree-segment tube having an end section forming a retention tubular section that has a reduced portion for positioning and retaining the cylindrical socket, an ancillary component including a conical body that forms therein a stepped bore that has a side opening. The stepped bore of the ancillary component and the cylindrical plug are respectively provided with mated dimple and bump for engaging each other. The ancillary component receiving the cylindrical plug therein is fit into an opposite end of the tree-segment tube to form a tree segment. Alternatively, the extension cable assembly can be used as a stand-alone device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Chang Fu Tsai
  • Publication number: 20140120756
    Abstract: Connectors for a lighting board are disclosed, adapted for receiving electrical energy from a power source, and via one or more conductive fasteners, both mechanically connecting a lighting board to a lighting frame and transmitting power from a power source 12 into electrical contacts in a lighting board to power a lighting board.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 1, 2014
    Applicant: AMERLUX, INC.
    Inventors: Itai LESHNIAK, Jonathan WALSH, Paresh SHAH, Antonio Delle TORRI
  • Patent number: 8702447
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an electrical extension sockets, and more particularly to a detachable electrical extension sockets having plurality of individual electrical extension sockets which are detachable with one another. Each of the electrical extension sockets is having male and female connectors. The male and female connectors are arranged in such a way to compliment each other to form extension. In addition, each electrical extension socket is provided with a printed circuit board (PCB) to replace wires for connection for delivering electricity from a power supply to a power plug connected from an electrical appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2014
    Inventor: Teik Hock Lau
  • Patent number: 8643504
    Abstract: A power distribution device includes a chassis, a power input, and power brick bays for receiving, and delivering power to, power bricks. Each power brick bay includes a power adapter for providing power to a power brick.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Inventor: Gregory J. Marcinek
  • Patent number: 8622756
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-function power strip are shown, said strip including a first endcap and a second endcap; at least one rail, said rail being adapted to engage with at least one outlet module; the rail also being engaged with a transformer module, said transformer module in electrical connection with the at least one outlet module, and adapted to receive electrical power therefrom, said transformer module further comprising a transformer adapted to transform electrical power into a plurality of voltages suitable for powering a plurality of different models of electronic accessories, and a connector forming a circuit to provide a suitable one of the plurality of voltages to an electronic accessory; and wherein the at least one outlet module and the transformer module are releasably joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ole Falk Smed
  • Patent number: 8619412
    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 including 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: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Carrel W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly, Dave Greenblat, Brandon W. Ewing
  • Patent number: 8616921
    Abstract: A floor runner with electrical and/or electronic or data outlets provides a low-profile, unobtrusive power and/or data source along a floor or other support surface. The electrical floor runner may be a one-piece unit of substantially any desired length, and typically includes a power cord with plug or connector at one end for coupling to a wall outlet or the like, and a power/data block at the other end for receiving power and/or data couplers for other devices, such as computers and electronics, lighting, etc. A middle portion is a strong, low-profile region that houses and protects electrical wiring held internally, and that is minimally intrusive for use in walking areas. Optionally, the floor runner may be modular so that its overall length or configuration (e.g., straight or angled) can be changed as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Norman R. Byrne, Robert L. Knapp, Randell E. Pate, Christa R. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8523585
    Abstract: A line system for an aircraft cabin has a line channel with a first surface and a second surface facing in an opposite direction with respect to the first surface. The line system also includes at least one conductor running in the line channel a plurality of first plug channels which enable contacting of the at least one conductor through the first surface, and at least one second plug channel which enables contacting of the at least one conductor through the second surface. At and at least one connector plug with an elongated contact pin which contacts the at least one conductor through the second plug channel, the contact pin having a first section situated in the second plug channel and a second section situated outside the second plug channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Grosse-Plankermann, Dieter Plehn, Hans-Juergen Poerschke
  • Patent number: 8480420
    Abstract: In an example embodiment a plug-light assembly includes an outlet assembly and a light assembly releasably engageable with the outlet assembly. One or more outlet may be installed in a housing of the outlet assembly and wired to external wires extending through a rear aperture in the outlet housing. The light assembly may include one or more lights and may be wired to external wiring through a rear aperture or through an end aperture in the outlet housing. End caps may be provided at ends of the outlet assembly housing and apertures may be provided to allowing wiring to extend through the ends of adjacent plug-light assemblies. The outlets and lights may be powered by separate circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: David J. Ziobro
  • Publication number: 20130164961
    Abstract: A loadcenter is equipped with a unitary neutral bus bar capable of receiving AFI and GFI circuit breakers having either a plug-on-neutral connection or a wire-neutral connection. The neutral bus bar is connected to line neutral and has a rolled rail that is formed by rolling an end of a conductive plate and bending the plate at a transition portion to position the rolled rail above and at an angle of a major flat surface of an extension of the neutral bus bar. Wire-capture apparatuses secured along an edge of an extension of the neutral bus bar can capture wires from circuit breakers that lack an internal connection to a neutral plug-on mounting jaw or that lack a neutral plug-on mounting jaw altogether.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Mauricio Diaz, Hildegard Peralta, Ezequiel Salas
  • Publication number: 20120238115
    Abstract: A lighting connector which includes (a) an upper housing having plural connector pins, and one or more interlocking grooves; and (b) a lower housing, the lower housing having a plurality of connector pin guide holes, and one or more interlocking tongue portions. The lower housing is connectable with the upper housing to form the lighting connector by coupling at least one of the one or more interlocking grooves with at least one of the one or more interlocking tongue portions, and by coupling at least one of the plural connector pins with at least one of the connector pin guide holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Paul Chung Wai Lo, Teddy Yeung Man Lo, Eddie Ping Kuen Li, Sue-Anne Tean Leung
  • Publication number: 20120238116
    Abstract: A lighting connector which includes first and second upper housings, each upper housing having plural connector pins, and one or more interlocking grooves; first and second lower housings, each the lower housing having a plurality of connector pin guide holes, and one or more interlocking tongue portions; and a flexible connector electrically connecting an inner side of the first lower housing with an inner side of the second lower housing, the first lower housing being connectable with the first upper housing, and the second lower housing being connectable with the second upper housing, to form the lighting connector by coupling at least one of the one or more interlocking grooves with at least one of the one or more interlocking tongue portions, and by coupling at least one of the plural connector pins with at least one of the connector pin guide holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Paul Chung Wai Lo, Teddy Yeung Man Lo, Eddie Ping Kuen Li, Sue-Anne Tean Leung
  • Publication number: 20120238117
    Abstract: A lighting connector which includes an upper housing having plural connector pins, and one or more interlocking grooves; a lower housing, the lower housing having a plurality of connector pin guide holes, and one or more interlocking tongue portions; a power supply plug; and a flexible connector electrically connecting an inner side of the lower housing with an inner side of the power supply plug, the lower housing being connectable with the upper housing to form the lighting connector by coupling at least one of the one or more interlocking grooves with at least one of the one or more interlocking tongue portions, and by coupling at least one of the plural connector pins with at least one of the connector pin guide holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Paul Chung Wai Lo, Teddy Yeung Man Lo, Eddie Ping Kuen Li, Sue-Anne Tean Leung
  • Patent number: 8221131
    Abstract: A sequentially connectable electrical outlet system, having a unisex plug assembly having first male and female swivel assemblies, and first male and female lock assemblies. A male outlet assembly has a second male swivel assembly and a second male lock assembly. The unisex plug assembly and the male outlet assembly are rotatably connected. A female outlet assembly has a second female swivel assembly and a second female lock assembly. The unisex plug assembly and the female outlet assembly are rotatably connected. At least two unisex outlet assemblies each comprise third male and female swivel assemblies, and third male and female lock assemblies. The at least two unisex outlet assemblies rotatably connected to the unisex plug assembly. A reel assembly defines a cavity to receive the unisex plug assembly, the male and female outlet assemblies, and the at least two unisex outlet assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Darren Mazyck
  • Publication number: 20120115343
    Abstract: The invention comprises, in one form thereof, a modular wiring system for use in a hospital environment including an electrical receptacle connectable to an electrical power supplying connector. The electrical receptacle includes a faceplate and a plurality of terminals. The faceplate has a plurality of openings therein. The plurality of terminals are each associated with a corresponding opening in the face plate. The plurality of terminals include a blade receiving terminal configured to substantially stabilize a blade of a plug inserted therein and prevent a withdrawal of the blade when up to three pounds of force is applied to the plug in a direction substantially perpendicular to the blade and the blade receiving terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: Bradley Plattner
  • Publication number: 20120083146
    Abstract: A block mounted adjustable end assembly (300) includes a first end jumper cable assembly (302) having a set of conductive wires (305) extending therethrough. The first end jumper cable assembly (302) is connected to a junction block assembly (306). The junction block assembly (306) includes a junction block (310) and an adjustment end block (318) secured to the junction block (310). A storage excess (340) of said conductive wires (305) is looped and stored within an interior (338) of said adjustment end block (318). The adjustment end block (318) is connected to a second end jumper cable assembly (320) having an extendable conduit (323) with the conductive wires (305) extending therethrough and terminating at a male end connector (324). Extension of the conduit (323) causes the slack of the storage excess (340) of the conductive wires (305) to be taken up within the length of the conduit (323).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2011
    Publication date: April 5, 2012
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Publication number: 20120064747
    Abstract: A modular electrical system (230) comprises a number of separate components forming a four-wire system (110). The component set (230) includes receptacle junction blocks (130), two-way connectors (232), four-way connectors (236), two-way jumper cable assemblies (234), and three-way jumper cable assemblies (238). The components of the component set (230) include various configurations of male blade terminals (150) and female terminals (200) located on the individual components so that a number of differing system configurations can be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Publication number: 20110308177
    Abstract: A solar electricity system, comprising a solar collection surface adapted to convert light into DC electricity; a power inverter to convert the DC electricity into AC electricity; and a power cable connected to the power inverter, the power cable comprising a male plug on its distal end adapted to mate with a female power receptacle on a building structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2010
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventor: William E. Hickman
  • Patent number: 7990689
    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 including 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: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Server Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Carrel W. Ewing, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly, Dave Greenblat, Brandon W. Ewing
  • Patent number: 7969747
    Abstract: Apparatus includes a chassis assembly, a computing device configured to connect to a housing of the chassis assembly, and a line cord supplying power to the chassis assembly. The line cord has a first portion external to the chassis assembly and a second portion internal to the chassis assembly. The second portion has a shielding member that is in conductive contact with the housing to provide electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding for the chassis assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: EMC Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Wierzbicki, Ralph L. Hill
  • Patent number: 7963804
    Abstract: A power strip includes a housing and prong fitting members arranged within the housing. The housing includes a first end including a plug and chambers each comprising two side plates and a bottom plate connecting the two side plates. The prong fitting members defines two/three openings electrically connected to the plug for receiving prongs of a two-prong plug or a three-prong plug. The prong fitting members are slidably connected to the two side plates of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xian-Wei Ma, Ting Luo
  • Patent number: 7961111
    Abstract: A home control protection system includes at least one surge protection strip having a plurality of power outlet receptacles, and a wall mountable central control unit that is in electrical communication with the at least one surge protection strip. The surge protection strip includes a replaceable surge protector module. The surge protection strip includes a circuit for detecting and counting the number of power surges which are shunted by the surge protector module, and compares the number of power surges with a predetermined threshold power surge number that corresponds to a predicted maximum number of power surges before failure of the surge protector module will occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventors: Prapan Paul Tinaphong, Eric M. Michielutti, Louis E. Lenzi, Joseph Craig Engle
  • Patent number: 7950941
    Abstract: An extension socket assembly has a housing, a first conductive strip, a second conductive strip, two plug tabs and a switch device. The first conductive strip is mounted in the housing. The second conductive strip is mounted in the housing and is composed of a front segment and a rear segment electrically disconnectable from the front segment. The plug tabs are connected to the housing and are respectively connected electrically to the first conductive strip and the front segment of the second conductive strip. The switch device has a switch connected electrically to the front segment and the rear segment of the second conductive strip with two switch wires. Accordingly, the extension socket assembly can be easily and convenient switched on or off by the extension switch device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Inventor: Tai-Yen Wang