For Unsupported Coupling Part And Unsupported Mating Part, (e.g., Connecting Extension Cords) Patents (Class 439/369)
  • Patent number: 7455546
    Abstract: Electrical power strips and electrical power strip assemblies are disclosed. An electrical power strip assembly includes electrical outlets for receiving power cord plugs. Strap mounts are provided, wherein each strap mount includes a connection point associated with one of the electrical outlets. A housing supports the electrical outlets in a connection plane and supports the plurality of strap mounts. Each strap mount connection point is proximal to the connection plane and to the electrical outlet associated with that strap mount connection point. Straps are coupled to the strap mounts. Each strap is configured to releasably secure a power cord plug received by one of the electrical outlets to the associated strap mount at the connection point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: Unisys Corporation
    Inventors: Seunghyun Yoon, Peter Klein
  • Patent number: 7452233
    Abstract: A plug connection securing system includes a male plug member that includes a male body with a front face and a peripheral wall. A cord extends into the male body. A plurality of male connections extends outwardly of the front face. A female plug member includes a female body with a forward face and a perimeter wall. A cord extends into the female body. A plurality of female connections extends inwardly of the forward face and receives the male connections. Each of a pair of arms has a first end pivotally attached to the peripheral wall. Each of the arms has a bend therein. Second ends of the arms are selectively positionable in front of the front face. A perimeter lip is attached to the female body and forms at least a pair of oppositely positioned shoulders. Each of the arms removably engages one of the shoulders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: Lars Michelsen
  • Patent number: 7445528
    Abstract: Systems for electrically coupling two or more devices include a receptacle connector assembly and a male connector assembly. The receptacle connector assembly includes one or more socket assemblies each having a socket with an at least partially conductive inner surface. The male connector assembly includes one or more plug contacts configured to mate with the sockets. Each of the plug contacts includes a multiplicity of compressible wires joined together at a distal tip such that when the plug contacts are inserted within the sockets, the compressible wires make electrical contact with the at least partially conductive inner surfaces of the sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventor: Janusz Kuzma
  • Patent number: 7442067
    Abstract: A cord clamp includes a football-shaped shell into which a male end of one cord and a female end of a second cord are placed. The clamp, when closed, will maintain these two cords coupled together yet will be easily maneuvered around objects due to its shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Jerry N. Amaral
  • Patent number: 7431606
    Abstract: A power cord connection device that reinforces the plug-to-plug connection between two power cords. The shaped main body of the invention is fitted with an attachment rope that is fastened behind the plug of a primary power cord. A secondary power cord is plugged in and makes a wide loop between the end of the main body and the plug-to-plug connection, while the attachment rope is taut under direct tension over the same distance. The secondary power cord is then looped through the openings and over the friction ridges of the main body. Any strain upon the primary power cord now bypasses the plug-to-plug connection in favor of the attachment rope. The invention also transfers the hanging weight of an extension cord to a ladder. The invention also keeps a power cord organized for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Inventor: Michael McLaughlin Hartrich
  • Patent number: 7431611
    Abstract: A see-through electrical connector comprises a first housing having a chamber therein, a second housing having chamber therein with the second housing including an open end mateable with an open end of the first housing to form an enclosure for supporting an electrical wire connection therein, a window located on either the first housing or the second housing for viewing the electrical wire connection in the enclosure, and an electrical wire securing and supporting member located in the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: The Patent Store, LLC
    Inventors: Lloyd Herbert King, Jr., William Hiner, James C. Keeven, Bradley L. Driskell
  • Patent number: 7425146
    Abstract: A lock-on boot for preventing a double-ended cable from becoming detached from a motor disconnect switch, includes a cover, a retaining rail, a locking mechanism, and a hinge. The cover has two convexly curved shells, each with an inner wall, an interior end, and an exterior end. The retaining rail is mounted on the inner walls within the convexly curved shells for dividing the shells into first and second pockets. The locking mechanism secures the convexly curved shells together and protrudes along their exterior ends. The hinge extends along the convexly curved shells pivotally joining their interior ends so that the convexly curved shells are movable between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: William R. Valentin
  • Patent number: 7425148
    Abstract: A cord holder is shown and disclosed. The cord holder has a bridge and a fixture on each end of the bridge. The fixture has a finger on the outermost edge of the bridge which extends from one side of the bridge to the other side forming an upwardly opening saddle. A pair of knobs located adjacent to the fingers, extend from the bottom of the bridge. The arrangement of the knobs forms a downward opening curved area for housing the cord. The user inserts one cord into the saddle and the curved area on one end and the second cord into the saddle and curved area on the opposite end. The ends of the cords can then be attached and retained below the bridge in this plugged together position until removed by the users as the cords are retained preventing premature disconnect of the cords. Alternative embodiments show a cord holder either translatable or fixed to one end of the cord. Another embodiment shows multiple cord holders attached to form a multiple line extension cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventor: Robert S. Allen
  • Patent number: 7407405
    Abstract: A plug connection device that provides an extra attachment means for two plugs when the two plugs are connected to one another. The device is fabricated from two components, which are a male grip and a female grip. The male grip is designed to be attached to a male plug assembly, while the female grip is designed to be attached to the female plug assembly. When the male plug assembly and the female plug assembly are removably attached to one another, the male grip and the female grip are also designed to be removably attached to one another, thereby making it more difficult for the male plug assembly and the female plug assembly to be disconnected from one another unless that is an individual's actual intent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas J. Slenczka
  • Publication number: 20080171464
    Abstract: An open-face electrical connector comprising a first housing having a chamber therein, a second housing mateable to the first housing to form an enclosure for supporting an electrical wire therein and a latchable wire retainer secured to one of the housings, the latchable wire retainer having a first jaw with a wire support surface and a second jaw with a wire support surface with the latchable wire retainer having an open condition for laterally inserting a wire between the first jaw and the second jaw and then bringing the first jaw and the second jaw into clamping engagement around a peripheral wire surface by bringing the first jaw toward the second jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 17, 2008
    Inventors: James C. Keeven, William Hiner, Lloyd Herbert King
  • Patent number: 7392585
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for connecting two pairs of conductors and one pair of ground wires and for allowing separation of the same upon the application of a tensional force upon at least one of the conductors or ground wires. The apparatus comprises two plates that each defines three holes configured to receive two conductors and a ground wire, wherein the plates are positioned adjacent to each other such that the respective holes in each plate are aligned such that the conductors and ground wires coming from each plate would be in physical contact. Three connectors hold the plates together. The first two connectors are configured to release the plates upon the application of a tensional force on the conductors or ground wires before the third connector releases the plates, thereby separating the conductors before separating the ground wires. Another embodiment addresses the same in multi-service connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Electric Power Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventor: Markus Ostendorp
  • Patent number: 7384297
    Abstract: An open-face electrical connector comprising a first housing having a chamber therein, a second housing mateable to the first housing to form an enclosure for supporting an electrical wire therein and a latchable wire retainer secured to one of the housings, the latchable wire retainer having a first jaw with a wire support surface and a second jaw with a wire support surface with the latchable wire retainer having an open condition for laterally inserting a wire between the first jaw and the second jaw and then bringing the first jaw and the second jaw into clamping engagement around a peripheral wire surface by bringing the first jaw toward the second jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Inventors: Lloyd Herbert King, Jr., William Hiner, James C. Keeven
  • Patent number: 7381080
    Abstract: An electric cord retention device includes a base, at least one cord hold-down member, and at least one lid, which together receive and retain an electric cord. The base has a top forming a cord accommodation slot and a coupling portion. Two conductor pieces are received and fixed in the cord accommodation slot and has sharp tips located in the cord accommodation slot. The coupling portion is arranged adjacent to the cord accommodation slot. The cord is positioned in the cord accommodation slot and is depressed down by the cord hold-down member that is fit into the cord accommodation slot and positioned above the cord. The lid is tightened to the coupling portion by means of threading engagement, whereby rotation of the lid with respect to the coupling portion causes the cord hold-down member to move downward and apply a force to the cord against the sharp tips, making the sharp tips piercing into the cord to establish electric connection therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Inventor: Wen-Cheng Lai
  • Patent number: 7361050
    Abstract: A cable management device for use in connection with a power center (210, 500, 810) comprises a perimeter wall (110, 410, 710) defining a passageway (120, 420, 720) capable of receiving a cable (820) coupled to the power center, and an attachment feature (130, 430, 450, 730) adjacent to the perimeter wall and capable of removably engaging the cable management device with at least one of the power center and a power cord (220, 817) of the power center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Mori, John Wadsworth
  • Patent number: 7341483
    Abstract: An electrical distributor assembly includes a plug member connected with a socket member that is mounted on, and extends slightly above, the top surface of a distributor housing, characterized by the provision of an axially displaceable protective sleeve mounted concentrically about the plug and socket members. The plug includes an upwardly extending integral cable supporting portion that is also enclosed by the sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Stefan Reker
  • Publication number: 20080054743
    Abstract: Embodiments are disclosed of an anti-disengagement assembly for minimizing disengagement of an electrical extension cord from a power tool of the type that includes a housing and a motor therein, the assembly including an electrical plug module configured to engage a receptacle of the extension cord, with the plug module being operatively connected to the power tool motor and being mounted in the housing and being biased by at least one spring in a configuration permitting limited movement that reduces the influence of vibration produced by the power tool on the plug module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: March 6, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Doumani
  • Publication number: 20080038955
    Abstract: A clip for securing a cord plug to a cord socket. One version of the clip has a set of opposed channels arranged to receive flanges extending from the plug and socket. The clip has a second set of opposed channels aligned with but narrower than the first set of channels, to receive tabs extending from either the plug or socket. These channels engage the flanges and tabs to secure the plug and socket together and prevent unwanted separation, when a separation force is provided. The clip also has openings in the sides of the clip to allow the plug and socket bodies or the cord to pass through the sidewalls, allowing the clip to surround the connected plug and socket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 14, 2008
    Inventor: Justin Miles Discoe
  • Patent number: 7316580
    Abstract: A fastener and fastening system for securing electrical plug connections in place is described. The fastener includes a first body having first and second opposite surfaces wherein the first surface of the first body includes a plurality of fastening loops. The fastener also includes a second body also having first and second opposite surfaces. The first surface of the second body includes a plurality of fastening hooks and is operatively connected to the first body so that the first and second surfaces of the first body are substantially parallel to the first and second surfaces of the second body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Inventor: David G. Walker
  • Patent number: 7312137
    Abstract: A transistor and a structure thereof, wherein a very shallow region having a high dopant concentration of germanium is implanted into a channel region of a transistor at a low energy level, forming an amorphous germanium implantation region in a top surface of the workpiece, and forming a crystalline germanium implantation region beneath the amorphous germanium implantation region. The workpiece is annealed using a low-temperature anneal to convert the amorphous germanium region to a crystalline state while preventing a substantial amount of diffusion of germanium further into the workpiece, also removing damage to the workpiece caused by the implantation process. The resulting structure includes a crystalline germanium implantation region at the top surface of a channel, comprising a depth below the top surface of the workpiece of about 120 ? or less. The transistor has increased mobility and a reduced effective oxide thickness (EOT).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Hong-Jyh Li
  • Patent number: 7303418
    Abstract: An electrical connector assembly includes a coupler housing and a coupler member secured to the coupler housing that receives a connector. The coupler housing has a first end and a second end. The coupler member is secured to the first end of the coupler housing. A cord connector is secured to the second end of the coupler housing. An electrical cord is electrically and mechanically coupled to the connector through the second end of the coupler housing. The electrical connector assembly provides a compact and portable electrical connector assembly that protects the housed connector from harsh conditions found in industrial and mechanical environments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: Douglas P. O'Connor
  • Publication number: 20070259555
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising an attaching member, a spring like resilient body configured to receive cord like, tubing and like elements and a portion to be grasped by a person. The apparatus further configured to organize and temporarily store cord like objects with a provision of strain relief. The apparatus comprising a first attaching member configured to be temporarily attached to a substantially rigid body, a resilient main body comprising an inner diameter and outer diameter forming a passage from the attaching end to the distal end to be grasped by a person. The apparatus free to move vertically and horizontally further having the ability to rotate when acted upon by an external force. The apparatus configured to wrap cords, tubing or like members within the resilient main body at a desired height vertically suspended from the fixed end. The apparatus can organize and manage a series of cords like elements and provide extended flexibility in movement as desired by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: November 8, 2007
    Inventor: Carl J. Conforti
  • Publication number: 20070249212
    Abstract: A system includes a household appliance, a pedestal and an interface. The household appliance includes a controller and a control panel. The control panel has a control element disposed therein. The pedestal includes a housing having an upper part providing a support surface for the household appliance. The pedestal also includes a drawer disposed in the housing, the drawer including a front panel covering a front of the housing and including a locking device operatively connected by a cable for locking and unlocking the locking device. The interface connects the cable to the pedestal and includes a male/female connector. A first part of the male/female connector is disposed on an underside of the household appliance, and a corresponding part of the male/female connector is disposed on the upper part of the housing of the pedestal so as to contact with the first part of the male/female connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Applicant: Miele & Cie. KG
    Inventors: Peter Buecker, Andreas Kratzsch, Franz Maier
  • Publication number: 20070218746
    Abstract: The present invention provides a twist prevention socket and an electrical device having the socket. The socket of the present invention includes a housing and a first plug, which is provided in an insertion part of the housing. The first plug is connected to a jack of a power cord. The socket further includes a second plug, which is provided in the housing at a position opposite the first plug and has a first contact member and a second contact member, which are connected to respective connection wires connected to the first plug. The first and second contact members are prevented from being electrically connected to each other, and have an arrangement of concentric circles. The socket further includes a mediating means, which includes a first connection member, which is connected to the first contact member of the second plug, and a second connection member, which is connected to the second contact member of the second plug and is electrically isolated from the first connection member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 20, 2007
    Applicant: Shin Woo Good Item Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Suhp HUR
  • Patent number: 7195511
    Abstract: Cable strain relief device (100) for electronic equipment (400) that can be attached at any position on a cable (200). The device (100) can secure the cable (200) to any fixed point (402). The device can protect the cable connection (404) to the electronic equipment by transferring mechanical load placed on the cable (200) to a strong rigid location (402) on the equipment or any fixed point. It also protects the cable from damage typically associated with conventional clamping techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Harris Corporation
    Inventors: Greg G. Ornt, Brent E. Raiber, David J. Zwick
  • Patent number: 7189100
    Abstract: A cord retaining housing and method includes a housing that has a first end wall, a second wall and a peripheral wall extending between the first and second end walls. The peripheral wall has a break therein so that a first section and a second section are defined. A hinge hingedly couples the first section to the second section so that the first section may be positioned in a closed or open position. Each of the first and second ends walls has a distal edge with respect to the second section. Each of the distal edges has a notch therein. A mated female and male plug is positioned in the housing. Cords attached the male and female plugs are placed in the notches and the first section is positioned in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventor: Jerome G. Colbourne
  • Patent number: 7186130
    Abstract: A plug retention apparatus for use in securing two plug members together to prevent undesired disengagement. The plug retention apparatus is affixed to a first plug member using a retention ring which provides a means for adjustable positioning via a threaded coupling to facilitate securing a second plug member to the first plug member. A plug clamp may be rotatably positioned about the second plug member retaining the plug members in a desired position. The clamp used for retaining the second plug may include a cord support, a latch to secure the cord on the support and a locking mechanism to selectively retain the latch in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: TMC Enterprises
    Inventor: Thomas J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7182624
    Abstract: A plug retention apparatus for use in securing two plug members together to prevent undesired disengagement. The plug retention apparatus is affixed to a first plug member using a retention ring which provides a means for adjustable positioning via a threaded coupling to facilitate securing a second plug member to the first plug member. A plug clamp may be rotatably positioned about the second plug member retaining the plug members in a desired position. The plug retention apparatus may include a sleeve removably disposed about the cord of the first plug. The clamp used for retaining the second plug may include a cord support, a latch to secure the cord on the support and a locking mechanism to selectively retain the latch in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: TMC Enterprises
    Inventor: Thomas J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7168973
    Abstract: A retaining system including a power cord retaining system and a cord plug retaining system for use with a power tool. The power cord retaining system is configured for accommodating an extension cord and includes a cord capture formation for retaining the extension cord disposed on the tool, and a cord channel disposed on the tool and configured for supporting a loop of the cord substantially along an arc defined by the loop. In the preferred embodiment, the cord capture formation defines an enclosed aperture for retaining the cord at two points, and the cord channel defines a semi-circular arc for supporting the cord loop substantially along its apex. The plug retaining system is configured for maintaining electrical continuity between the plug and the receptacle and includes a contact portion for engaging a plug or a cord, and an attachment device for attaching the contact portion to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Z. Wascow, Robert Hollis, Jason Schickerling, William H. Schultz, Peter Domeny
  • Patent number: 7125277
    Abstract: A retaining system including a power cord retaining system and a cord plug retaining system for use with a power tool. The power cord retaining system is configured for accommodating an extension cord and includes a cord capture formation for retaining the extension cord disposed on the tool, and a cord channel disposed on the tool and configured for supporting a loop of the cord substantially along an arc defined by the loop. In the preferred embodiment, the cord capture formation defines an enclosed aperture for retaining the cord at two points, and the cord channel defines a semi-circular arc for supporting the cord loop substantially along its apex. The plug retaining system is configured for maintaining electrical continuity between the plug and the receptacle and includes a contact portion for engaging a plug or a cord, and an attachment device for attaching the contact portion to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Z. Wascow, Robert Hollis, Jason Schickerling, William H. Schultz, Peter Domeny
  • Patent number: 7123716
    Abstract: A retainer that is attachable to a set of interfacing cables prevents physical separation of the cables while allowing electrical disconnection of the cables. The retainer uses a body member with a hinged end cap on each end. The end caps include a snap pin and the ends of the body include receiving voids for the snap pins. The end caps can be locked into place by rotating around the hinged attachment until the snap pins engage the receiving voids. Either one or both of the end cap and elongated body have notches that form restraining voids when the end caps are locked in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: GN Netcom Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Jozitis, Joe Feni
  • Patent number: 7101214
    Abstract: A plug retention apparatus for use in securing two plug members together to prevent undesired disengagement. The plug retention apparatus is affixed to a first plug member using a retention ring which provides a means for adjustable positioning via a threaded coupling to facilitate securing a second plug member to the first plug member. A plug clamp may be rotatably positioned about the second plug member retaining the plug members in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2006
    Assignee: TMC Enterprises
    Inventor: Thomas J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7081004
    Abstract: Locking devices and methods of using the devices for interlocking two, three, four or more electrical type extension cords together with each other and/or with electrical cords on appliances and tools, to one another. Versions of the devices can include side facing slots having various configurations that allow portions of the electrical cords to be wrapped around and snappably held within. Pulling the cords apart can tighten the cords into the slots. The devices can have various configurations such as being ruler shaped, fan shaped ends, fork shaped ends, and the like. Coils and springs can be located on the ends of the devices in place of the slots to also allow for the cords to be locked. Indicia ruler markings can be provided on the device so that it can be used as a measuring tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Puzio
  • Patent number: 7077698
    Abstract: A securing device for maintaining a first electrical connector in contact with a second electrical connector through at least one window of a panel, the second connector being arranged behind that panel, is disclosed. The securing device includes at least two clips arranged on a front end to be directed towards the panel, at least one hollow starting from the front end and extending towards a rear end of the securing device, and at least one outward opening leading into it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Thomson Licensing
    Inventors: Geert Matthys, Geert Van Den Bossche, Tim Withofs
  • Patent number: 7044761
    Abstract: An enclosure formed from a first compartment and an identical second compartment to house an electrical connector. Each compartment has a main body that is defined by a first wall, a second wall and ends. The first wall of each compartment has an outer tab with at least one projection that extends inwards and an inner tab positioned adjacent to the outer tab. The second wall of each compartment has an aperture. When the compartments are mounted to each other to form the enclosure, the projection of the first wall of the first compartment is disposed in the aperture in the second wall of the second compartment and the projection of the first wall of the second compartment is disposed in the aperture in the second wall of the first compartment. The enclosure also includes a label and label cover that are disposed inside the enclosure to identify the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Robert L. Sokol, Robert W. Kossak, Larry S. Mohr
  • Patent number: 7041905
    Abstract: A removable cover that has two safety prongs, for electrical power cords. A replacement outlet cover is also provided that has corresponding side slots to receive the safety prongs. When the cover is inserted into the outlet, the safety prongs engage the side slots, which then hold the cover in place. Once the safety prongs are engaged, the safety cover must be compressed to remove the cover. This type of action is beyond the motor skills of small children, thus making the covers totally safe for use around children. Moreover, removing the covers is a simple task for adults, which makes them more likely to be used than more complicated covers and locks. The covers can be sold as a kit with a replacement outlet box cover for a low price. Power cords can thus be made safe by preventing them from being easily pulled out of outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Inventor: Darren Stewart
  • Patent number: 7033203
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connector pair (1,2), for detachably connecting two cable ends (3,4), cords, optical fibers or hoses, which will not disconnect when a pulling force is applied to a cable. For that purpose the first connector (1) is provided with at least one male coupling part (5a, 5b) and a second connector (2) is provided with at least one female coupling part (6a,6b) which are positioned in relation to the two ends in such a manner that an angle between a cable end, cord, optical fiber or hose and a pointing direction of a corresponding coupling part is an acute angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Auckland Uniservices Limited
    Inventor: Mark Renfrew Titchener
  • Patent number: 7021955
    Abstract: A retaining system including a power cord retaining system and a cord plug retaining system for use with a power tool. The power cord retaining system is configured for accommodating an extension cord and includes a cord capture formation for retaining the extension cord disposed on the tool, and a cord channel disposed on the tool and configured for supporting a loop of the cord substantially along an arc defined by the loop. In the preferred embodiment, the cord capture formation defines an enclosed aperture for retaining the cord at two points, and the cord channel defines a semi-circular arc for supporting the cord loop substantially along its apex. The plug retaining system is configured for maintaining electrical continuity between the plug and the receptacle and includes a contact portion for engaging a plug or a cord, and an attachment device for attaching the contact portion to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Z. Wascow, Robert Hollis, Jason Schickerling, William H. Schultz, Peter Domeny
  • Patent number: 7001202
    Abstract: A retaining device retains a pair of electrical power cords, one cord having a plug which is joined to a socket of the other cord. The device has first and second receptacles, each with a first open end and a second open end, and an opening extending from the first open end to the second open end. The first open end, the second open end, and the opening extending from the first open end to the second open end of the first and second receptacles together form a space for receiving the ends of the power cords, including the plug and socket. The first receptacle inserts into the second receptacle to adjust the overall length of the retaining device and locks in place to retain the ends of the pair of power cords and the plug and socket coupled to each other. The first receptacle is turned to release it from the second receptacle in order to remove the coupled ends of the power cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas E. Robbins
  • Patent number: 6997734
    Abstract: A device for holding the plugs of power tool cords and extension cords in electric contact having a C-shaped collar on each end of a rigid rod. Attached to each collar is a flexible band with complementary strip of separable adhesive material. When power tool cords and extension cords are plugged together and when the cords are placed in the collars, the collars abut the plugs. Wrapping the bands around their respective collars and pressing the adhesive strips together secures the cords in the collars. If a cord is jerked, the plugs will not lose electric contact, rather, the plugs will remain in contact and will move as a unit with this retention device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Inventor: Gerald McQuirter
  • Patent number: 6981888
    Abstract: A lockable electric power cord adapter has a unitary housing containing male plug blade receiving member therein wherein each blade receiving member has a pivotable locking member mounted thereon. The blade receiving member has a hole therein for allowing a barbed end of the locking member to pass therethrough and engage a hole in the male plug blade in the locking position. An actuator has actuating lugs thereon which pivot the locking members to an unlocked position when the actuating member is pushed against a biasing spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Piranha Plugs, LLC
    Inventors: Michael O'Keefe, Michael Mueller, John Witzigreuter
  • Patent number: 6979221
    Abstract: A retainer receives and secures together the male and female terminal blocks of a pair of electrical cords where each cord includes an end segment that extends immediately from the male or female terminal blocks. The retainer includes a generally flat and rigid member having spaced apart first and second cord openings formed therein. A slit extends between the first and second cord openings and can be manipulated between closed and open positions. By opening the slit, the male and female terminal blocks can be inserted through the slit and the end segments extending from the terminal blocks can be moved along the slit and inserted into the cord openings. Consequently the end segments leading from the terminal blocks turn and extend through the cord openings such that the end segments are maintained out of general alignment with the male and female terminal blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Inventor: Al G. Hunter
  • Patent number: 6971898
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting two pairs of conductors and one pair of ground wires and for allowing separation of the same upon the application of a tensional force upon at least one of the conductors or ground wires. The apparatus includes two plates that each defines three holes configured to receive two conductors and a ground wire, wherein the plates are positioned adjacent to each other such that the respective holes in each plate are aligned such that the conductors and ground wires coming from each plate would be in physical contact. Three connectors hold the plates together. The first two connectors are configured to release the plates upon the application of a tensional force on the conductors or ground wires before the third connector releases the plates, thereby separating the conductors before separating the ground wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Electric Power Research Institute, Inc.
    Inventor: Markus Ostendorp
  • Patent number: 6957977
    Abstract: A plug retention apparatus for use in securing two plug members together to prevent undesired disengagement. The plug retention apparatus is affixed to a first plug member using a retention ring which provides a means for adjustable positioning via a threaded coupling to facilitate securing a second plug member to the first plug member. A plug clamp may be rotatably positioned about the second plug member retaining the plug members in a desired position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Assignee: TMC Enterprises, a division of TASCO Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Miller
  • Patent number: 6878007
    Abstract: A power cord plug and jack retainer includes a first and second mating sections. The first and second sections are adapted to mate such that the first section is female and the second section is male. The sections are provided with rhombic shaped pins and slots which lock in place against resilient forces provided by resilient pads and resilient straps. The retainer is provided with conical end portions to prevent snagging but is provided with hooks on the jack side of the conical portion for hooking the retainer on a suitable support such as a belt, ladder, branch or any other suitable support. The second section with the hooks on the conical portion may be used to hang a cord of a power tool or any other item having a cord with an enlarged portion. Any tool may be hung by a rope by placing a knot in the rope and hanging it from the second section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventor: Selden M. Decker
  • Patent number: 6875040
    Abstract: A lockable electric power cord adapter has a unitary housing containing male plug blade receiving member therein wherein each blade receiving member has a pivotable locking member mounted thereon. The blade receiving member has a hole therein for allowing a barbed end of the locking member to pass therethrough and engage a hole in the male plug blade in the locking position. An actuator has actuating lugs thereon which pivot the locking members to an unlocked position when the actuating member is pushed against a biasing spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Pirana Plugs
    Inventors: Michael O'Keefe, Michael Mueller, John Witzigreuter
  • Patent number: 6846196
    Abstract: A retaining device for use with interconnecting plug ends of first and second extending cords. A main gripping body exhibits a first pair of arcuately extending and spaced apart gripping portions. A secondary gripping body is slidably received within an axially extending aperture defined in the main gripping body and exhibits a second pair of arcuately extending and spaced apart gripping portions arrayed in opposing fashion relative the first pair of gripping portions. A cover plate is fixedly secured to the main gripping body, in overlaying fashion upon the axially extending aperture, the cover plate and secondary gripping body each further exhibiting a partially aligning and extending recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Inventor: Harry Fallon
  • Publication number: 20040219820
    Abstract: An enclosure formed from a first compartment and an identical second compartment to house an electrical connector. Each compartment has a main body that is defined by a first wall, a second wall and ends. The first wall of each compartment has an outer tab with at least one projection that extends inwards and an inner tab positioned adjacent to the outer tab. The second wall of each compartment has an aperture. When the compartments are mounted to each other to form the enclosure, the projection of the first wall of the first compartment is disposed in the aperture in the second wall of the second compartment and the projection of the first wall of the second compartment is disposed in the aperture in the second wall of the first compartment. The enclosure also includes a label and label cover that are disposed inside the enclosure to identify the connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2004
    Publication date: November 4, 2004
    Inventors: Robert L. Sokol, Robert W. Kossak, Larry S. Mohr
  • Publication number: 20040175983
    Abstract: A latex rubber cover molded to the base of the plugs on a construction type extension cord. When not in use, it is rolled back like rolling up the sleeve of a long sleeved shirt. When two cords with the latex cover are plugged into each other to make a longer cord, the latex cover on one plug is rolled onto itself and then onto the joined plug. When the cover is fully rolled out covering both plugs tightly, the latex cover on the joined plug is rolled out onto itself and the joined plug and on top of the first latex cover thus giving it a double seal on the joined plugs creating a waterproof joining of two extension cords. This also prevents the two plugs from pulling apart when being extended while being used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Inventor: Jon M. Davis
  • Publication number: 20040166718
    Abstract: A power cord plug securing device for securably maintaining a power cord plug in electrically operative engagement with an electrical outlet and/or electrical extension cord, thereby eliminating forced disengagement of same, and the resulting structural and functional damage to the power cord, plug head, and electrical outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Publication date: August 26, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel T. Yoest
  • Patent number: 6776639
    Abstract: An electrical coupling comprises a sealing element, a mechanical securing element, and load bearing members on either side of the mechanical securing element. The load bearing members each comprise upper and lower body halves, which mount to an inner member through which an insulated electrical cable runs. Between the upper and lower body halves and the inner member, an open weave fabric is secured, and the fabric extends onto the electrical cable beyond the load bearing member, so that when stress is applied to the cable, the fabric tends to squeeze down onto the cable, thereby bearing the stress on the cable. The mechanical securing element is preferably a bayonet mount, including an O-ring seal providing a water resistant seal when the connection is made up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventors: Charles Dennis, Rainer Kuenzel