Universally Or Pivotally Adjustable Supporting Elements Patents (Class 439/534)
  • Patent number: 7744404
    Abstract: A cable retraction mechanism for displaying merchandise mounted on a display post in a retail location. The cable retraction mechanism includes a cable assembly having a coiled or equivalent elastically stretchable section. The mechanism also includes a coaxial housing that is connected to a portion of the cable assembly. The reciprocating motion or action of the shuttle within the housing facilitates extension and retraction of the cable assembly in a manner that is independent of the coiled section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Merchandising Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald Henson, Donald Niderost, James Larry Peacock
  • Patent number: 7742289
    Abstract: A quick connect system for an electronic device, comprising a docking station configured to engage the electronic device, the docking station having a locking mechanism actuatable to an unlocked position, the locking mechanism configured to independently remain in the unlocked position and automatically return to a locking position in response to disengagement of the electronic device from the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: David Quijano, Randall W. Martin, Nick Woodley, Tom J. Searby
  • Patent number: 7736178
    Abstract: An expandable power and data center (300) is mounted to a work surface (332), and includes a front face surface (302). Extending outwardly from an aperture (338) within the face (302) are power receptacles (310) and data ports (312). A housing (322) extends rearwardly of the front face (302) and includes a bracket mount (340). The bracket mount (340) is formed by the rear portion (330) of the housing (322) having a central portion (348) intermediate a set of L-slots (342). The L-slots (342) releasably engage various configurations of mounting brackets (350, 390) for use in mounting the power and data center (300) to various types of surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 7722388
    Abstract: A system provides a charging and a connection for a mobile unit. The system includes a housing of a mobile unit that couples to a latch. The housing comprises a loop and a panel. The loop is disposed on a top portion of the housing and receives a hook of the latch. The panel is disposed on a back portion of the housing and receives a corresponding panel of the latch. The panel includes a first set of electrical contacts that couple to a second set of electrical contacts of the corresponding panel to establish an electrical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ben Michaeli, Bob Kowalski, Quintin Morris, Mark Palmer, Carl Theleman
  • Patent number: 7674122
    Abstract: This invention relates to providing a means to removeably mount a feed through/grounding bushing commonly used to bond together, ground and/or park power distribution cables. Many pieces of power distribution equipment have U brackets for removable attachment of accessories and temporary placed maintenance equipment. The present invention addresses holding the bushing at an angle relative to the U bracket and surrounding surface and adjustability of the bushing height relative to the U bracket for strain relief and adjusting for improved work room. Also addressed is the advantage of cable identification by numbering the wells so that a lineman may readily select the cables even after the bushing may have been set aside for equipment replacement. This is especially useful on but not limited to this invention since the U bracket mounting means is moveable and would not always provide positive identification of one end of a multi well bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Denton L. Jackson, III
  • Publication number: 20100055928
    Abstract: It is sometimes advantageous to provide power to the mobile electronic device while using the mobile electronic device. The present connector transfers power from a power source to the mobile electronic device via an element module, a cable, and a plug of the connector. The connector enables the user to: a) interface the element module with the mobile electronic device; and, b) interface the plug with a power source (wall transformer, automobile power jack, aircraft power jack, etc.).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Mitch Randall
  • Publication number: 20090318016
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fixing system for electronic and/or electric components—called E components in short—such as chips, circuits, transponders, cables (10) etc., with at least one first fastening element (12) having individual closure parts (14, 16) which, in interaction with corresponding closure parts (22) of a further fastening element (20), form an adhesive closure which can be opened and closed repeatedly, wherein the respective E component can be connected to a support (30). Owing to the fact that the further fastening element (20) can be connected to the support (30), at least part of which has an adhesive layer and/or which is composed of an embedding compound, said adhesive layer or embedding compound producing the direct connection of the respective E component to the further fastening element (20) assignable to it, a solution is provided which requires only a very little amount of installation space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Konstantinos Poulakis
  • Patent number: 7597571
    Abstract: The present invention provides a fan having a frame and a plug. The frame includes an accommodating portion and at least two fixed holes. Each of the fixed holes is disposed on the two sides of the accommodating portion. The plug has a terminal seat with at least two linking portions and a bipolar knife-shaped terminal between an top seat and a bottom seat of the terminal seat, and the plug so that the plug is assembled with the fixed holes of the frame via the linking portions of the plug and is accommodated within the accommodating portion of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Tien-Min Chen, Te-Tsai Chuang
  • Publication number: 20090176404
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2009
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Applicant: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Patent number: 7544090
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Patent number: 7534135
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Patent number: 7527500
    Abstract: A combination of a swivel port and a wall plate includes a body interconnected with a female connector or a double-female coaxial cable connector such that moving the body moves the connector and vice versa. At least one ridge on the body corresponds to and interoperates with at least one guide channels in an opening in the wall plate which receives the swivel port. The guide channel extends from an inside of the wall plate to an outside of the wall plate, and width of the guide channel at the outside of the wall plate is greater than a width of the guide channel at the inside of the wall plate. The interoperation of the ridge on the body with the guide channel permits movement of the swivel port in two dimensions while prohibiting rotation of the swivel port about a longitudinal axis of the swivel port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: John Mezza lingua Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Noah Montena
  • Patent number: 7484825
    Abstract: A printing material container is detachably attachable to a printing apparatus having a plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The printing material container comprises a first device, a second device, and a terminal group that includes a plurality of first terminals, at least one second terminal and at least one third terminal. The plurality of first terminals are connected to the first device and respectively include a first contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one second terminal is connected to the second device and includes a second contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one third terminal is for the detection of shorting between the at least one second terminal and the at least one third terminal and includes a third contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Noboru Asauchi
  • Patent number: 7455548
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel includes a frame defining at least one opening configured to receive a connector module; and at least one connector module rotatably mounted in the at least one opening of the frame. Each connector module defines an axis of rotation generally parallel to the front face. Each connector module includes at least a first and second linear array of openings configured to receive jacks modules. Each of the openings in the first linear array is configured to receive a jack module having a first orientation, and each of the openings in the second linear array is configured to receive a jack module having a second orientation. The second orientation is rotated about 180° from the first orientation along an axis of insertion of the jack module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2008
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunication, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon P. Clark, Loren J. Mattson
  • Publication number: 20080274640
    Abstract: A telecommunications assembly including: a connector housing; a bezel mounted on the connector housing, the bezel have a front face having an opening for receiving a plug, the opening having a recess for receiving a plug latch; a faceplate having a faceplate opening of a standard dimension; wherein the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in a flat orientation with the recess positioned downwards and the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in an angled orientation with the recess positioned upwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Applicant: THE SIEMON COMPANY
    Inventors: John A. Siemon, James Frey, Maxwell K. Yip, Marc Pardee, Randy J. Below, Anthony Veatch
  • Patent number: 7427207
    Abstract: This invention relates to providing a means to removeably mount a feed through/grounding bushing commonly used to bond together, ground and/or park power distribution cables. Many pieces of power distribution equipment have U brackets for removable attachment of accessories and temporary placed maintenance equipment. The present invention addresses holding the bushing at an angle relative to the U bracket and surrounding surface and adjustability of the bushing height relative to the U bracket for strain relief and adjusting for improved work room. Also addressed is the advantage of cable identification by numbering the wells so that a lineman may readily select the cables even after the bushing may have been set aside for equipment replacement. This is especially useful on but not limited to this invention since the U bracket mounting means is moveable and would not always provide positive identification of one end of a multi well bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Inventor: Denton L. Jackson, III
  • Patent number: 7402043
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a connector holding structure in which a connector is held in a door frame, the connector being mated with a mating connector attached to a fulcrum end of a door handle and pivotally held in the door frame. The connector holding structure according to the present invention allows the connector to be smoothly mated with the mating connector while permitting a change in the orientation of the connector caused by a pivoting motion of the door handle. The connector has two projections arranged on each side in a horizontal direction. A door frame has a guide groove extending along a horizontal direction in association with a direction in which the two projections are arranged, and two grooves extending downward from the guide groove in association with the two projections to permit pivoting motion of the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics AMP K.K.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Komiyama, Yoshinori Hitomi, Katsutoshi Fukunaga, Makoto Suzumura, Yukinobu Kunimatsu
  • Patent number: 7402074
    Abstract: A bracket mounted product, such as a floodlight, is provided having a dual latch bracket with integral strap tensioning and wire splicing for mounting on tubing or another suitable mounting structure, featuring a mounting arrangement and a splicing latch arrangement. The mounting arrangement has a mounting base for supporting the light or other suitable product or device on the tubing or another suitable mounting structure, and has a mounting strap for wrapping around the tubing or other suitable mounting structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth J. LeBlanc, Gregory S. Cook, Oliver C. Frost
  • Publication number: 20080158318
    Abstract: A printing material container is detachably attachable to a printing apparatus having a plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The printing material container comprises a first device, a second device, and a terminal group that includes a plurality of first terminals, at least one second terminal and at least one third terminal. The plurality of first terminals are connected to the first device and respectively include a first contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one second terminal is connected to the second device and includes a second contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one third terminal is for the detection of shorting between the at least one second terminal and the at least one third terminal and includes a third contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Noboru Asauchi
  • Publication number: 20080119083
    Abstract: A plug-in module for mounting on a mounting device is provided, the plug-in module including a housing with a rear mounting face and plug regions on the front face. At least one additional plug region is formed between the front face and the rear mounting face on the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Publication date: May 22, 2008
    Applicant: Cedes AG
    Inventor: Michael LENDI
  • Patent number: 7375959
    Abstract: An external drive cabinet is provided with, a power connector and a data interface connector installed on the back side of the cabinet frame not on the same level but positioned in step manner, keeping a buffer space in between. Such arrangement of connectors enables one of the two connectors to make connection before the other does, thus smoothing out the plugging and unplugging processes. The tray in the external drive cabinet is equipped with a hinge joint at the rear end that is able to swing the front end of the tray upward when the handle bar of the tray is pulled up. The front panel of the hard disk stored in the drive cabinet can be completely concealed in the drive cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: SerComm Corporation
    Inventor: Cheng-Chung Chang
  • Patent number: 7364443
    Abstract: An electrical outlet device comprising a mounting plate and an electrical outlet assembly containing electrical components and a hinge assembly coupled to the electrical outlet assembly and the mounting plate and adapted to enable the electrical outlet assembly to pivot with respect to the mounting plate between a raised horizontal orientation and a lowered operative orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventors: Glenn M. McGinnis, John F. Coyne
  • Patent number: 7335056
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel includes a frame and multiple connector modules mounted to the frame. The connector modules are pivotally movable about generally upright pivot axes that extend between upper and lower portions of the frame. Each connector module includes a circuit board, front connector ports mounted to the first side of the circuit board; rear connector ports mounted to the second side of the circuit board; and a housing enclosing the circuit board. The housing can be formed from a first housing shell cooperating with a second housing shell to capture the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon P. Clark, Loren J. Mattson
  • Publication number: 20080032549
    Abstract: The mounting device serves to receive an electrical plug coupling for the connection of an electronic circuit assembly. It has a coupling receptacle (2), which is pivotally mounted on a door handle carrier (10) and is locked against tilting in an installation position and can be pivoted into an operational position. The coupling receptacle (2) is guided by means of two formations (9) projecting on opposite sides in parallel guide slots (7). The guide slots (7) each have at least one slot constriction (8?), through which the formations (9) can be forced only after overcoming a predetermined threshold force. Rigidly connected to the coupling receptacle (2) is at least one tilt locking element (13b). The tilt locking element comes into engagement, in the installation position, with an opposing component (16) fixed to the door and then comes out of engagement with the opposing component when the formations (9) have passed the slot constrictions (8?) in the guide slots (7).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Cho Yong Sang
  • Patent number: 7317613
    Abstract: A quick connect system for an electronic device, comprising a docking station configured to engage the electronic device, the docking station having a locking mechanism actuatable to an unlocked position, the locking mechanism configured to independently remain in the unlocked position and automatically return to a locking position in response to disengagement of the electronic device from the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: David Quijano, Randall W. Martin, Nick Woodley, Tom J. Searby
  • Patent number: 7244144
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Publication number: 20070149044
    Abstract: A printing material container is detachably attachable to a printing apparatus having a plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The printing material container comprises a first device, a second device, and a terminal group that includes a plurality of first terminals, at least one second terminal and at least one third terminal. The plurality of first terminals are connected to the first device and respectively include a first contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one second terminal is connected to the second device and includes a second contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals. The at least one third terminal is for the detection of shorting between the at least one second terminal and the at least one third terminal and includes a third contact portion for contacting a corresponding terminal among the plurality of apparatus-side terminals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Publication date: June 28, 2007
    Inventor: Noboru Asauchi
  • Patent number: 7207834
    Abstract: An electrical mounting structure includes a first electronic device having a first connector; a second electronic device having a rear plate, the rear plate having at least one via hole and a second connector for being connected to the first connector of the first electronic device; and a connecting board disposed on the first electronic device and having at least one guiding portion and a fastening portion, the guiding portion for passing through the via hole to guide the first connector of the first electronic device to be aligned with and connected to the second connector of the rear plate, and the fastening portion for fastening the rear plate of the second electronic device to the first electronic device after the guiding portion has passed through the via hole and the first connector has been connected to the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Chih-Peng Chuang
  • Patent number: 7179119
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Patent number: 7165980
    Abstract: A grounding device for an electrical conduit which includes: a bushing having an outer wall and a notch in the outer wall; a lug rotatably accommodated by the notch; and a grounding connector with a set screw which is attached to the lug. The grounding conductor is electrically contacted to the bushing by the set screw. In addition, the force exerted by the set screw frictionally engages the lug with the bushing and locks the lug in place so that the lug is no longer free to rotate. The grounding connector can be reoriented by loosening the set screw and rotating the lug to a different orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger D. Pyron, David W. Fraze
  • Patent number: 7074062
    Abstract: A modular appliance system comprising a plurality of modular appliances, a base unit for supporting at least two of the modular appliances simultaneously or a free standing unit for supporting one or more modular appliances simultaneously or a free standing appliance for supporting one or more modular appliances simultaneously. Hingedly attached extensions are movable between points under and around the base, free standing unit and free standing appliance. The extensions provide electric power through cordless connectors and may be pivoted, hingedly attached or on slides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventor: Edward Khoury
  • Patent number: 7040923
    Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting apparatus for supporting an electric device in a car. The supporting apparatus comprises a plug having a front end and a rear end over which the front end of the plug being can be plugged into and fixed in an electric socket of the car, a flexible steel tube having two ends fixed to the rear end of the plug and the electric device separately, a plurality of flexible steel wire ropes each having two ends fixed to the rear end of the plug and the electric device separately, the plurality of steel wire ropes being positioned separately at two sides of the steel tube for strengthening the steel tube, and an electric wire installed in the steel tube for electrically connecting the electric device to the plug. When a user bends or rotates the supporting apparatus, the steel tube and steel wire ropes of the supporting apparatus will be flexibly bent or rotated and the electric device will be approximately maintained at the bent or rotated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Primax Electronics Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsu Min-Chen, Lu Chang-Kun
  • Patent number: 7014486
    Abstract: A recoverable connector structure and a cradle having the same are provided. The cradle includes a base plate, a fixed stand, a recoverable assembly having a bolt and an elastic body, a support body, a shielding plate, a circuit board, a second connector and a case. An electronic device couples with the second connector of the cradle through a first connector of the electronic device. When the electronic device is pulled from the second connector of the cradle, the recoverable assembly allows the second connector and the circuit board to rotate in a certain angle. As the electronic device is separated from the cradle, the second connector can return to its initial position. This design not only makes the process of pulling up the electronic device smooth, but also avoids the second connector from fatigued damage to extend the cradle's life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: High Tech Computer, Corp.
    Inventors: Chin-Lung Wu, Fu-Chung Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6945814
    Abstract: A multi-position electrical connector for a robotic tool changer includes a bracket mountable to a robotic tool changer master or tool module, a coupling interface in a fixed position with respect to the bracket, and a cable interface moveable to a plurality of positions with respect to the bracket. Both the coupling interface and the cable interface include a plurality of electrical contacts, which are electrically connected. In one embodiment, the cable interface is disposed at substantially 90 degrees to the coupling interface, and is rotatable about an axis of the coupling interface. The cable interface may be fixed in one of a plurality of positions around the coupling interface. In one embodiment, a selected position is fixed by mating a retention member on one of the cable interface and the bracket, with a recess on the other of the cable interface and the bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: ATI Industrial Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: James Snape, Robert Little
  • Patent number: 6935883
    Abstract: A connector system for an electronic device having a plurality of connectors includes a mounting bracket adapted to be attached to the electronic device. The mounting bracket includes a plurality of pins extending outwardly therefrom. A plate is provided with a plurality of openings adapted to receive a corresponding one of the pins for releasably securing the mounting bracket to the plate. A connector block is coupled to the plate, the connector block including a plurality of openings each adapted to secure a connector therein. The connectors within the connector block simultaneously coupling with the connectors of the electronic device when the mounting bracket is secured to the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Innovative Office Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Odd N. Oddsen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6916199
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Patent number: 6843667
    Abstract: A modular appliance system comprising a plurality of modular appliances (12, 14, 16), a base unit (10) for supporting at least two of the modular appliances simultaneously or a free standing unit for supporting one or more modular appliances simultaneously or a free standing appliance for supporting one or more modular appliances simultaneously. Hingedly attached extensions (1) are movable between points under and around the base, free standing unit and free standing appliance. The extensions provide electric power through cordless connectors (4) and may be pivoted, hingedly attached or on slides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2005
    Inventor: Edward Khoury
  • Publication number: 20040203279
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved sound and vibration device in a motor vehicle electrical distribution box. The inventive device comprises a structure for anchoring the structural elements of the aforementioned distribution boxes in such a way as to eliminate any possible sound or vibrations that may be generated as a result of the movement to which said motor vehicle elements are subjected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jordi Olle Miquel, Ignaci Ferran Palau
  • Patent number: 6790079
    Abstract: A connector retention apparatus for resiliently retaining connectors of different heights in mated engagement with a device. Included in the apparatus is a base assembly adapted to be connected to a device; and, at least a resiliently deflectable assembly connected to the base assembly and including a connector engaging portion that is biased for engagement with a connector and capable of accommodating and biasing connectors of varying heights into mated engagement with a device. A card and connector retention system for retaining a printed circuit card assembly to a device and a connector to the printed circuit card assembly. The system includes a connector assembly for retaining a printed circuit card assembly to a device; and, a connector retention apparatus for resiliently retaining connectors of different heights in mated engagement with the printed circuit card assembly. The connector retention apparatus is couplable to the connector assembly. A method of assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Jessica Rose Berens, Dano Ben Lange, Scott Raymond LaPree
  • Patent number: 6755663
    Abstract: An apparatus for connecting an electronic device to a communications system to provide access via the device to a user in a seat on a mobile platform. A jack is pivotally attached to one end of a gooseneck assembly and receives a connector of the electronic device. Another end of the gooseneck assembly is pivotally attached to a pivot for an armrest of the seat. An interface cable extends through the gooseneck assembly and electrically connects the jack with a system connector near the seat. The gooseneck assembly is easily accessible and visible to passengers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Donald B. Lee
  • Publication number: 20040102087
    Abstract: A connector retention apparatus for resiliently retaining connectors of different heights in mated engagement with a device. Included in the apparatus is a base assembly adapted to be connected to a device; and, at least a resiliently deflectable assembly connected to the base assembly and including a connector engaging portion that is biased for engagement with a connector and capable of accommodating and biasing connectors of varying heights into mated engagement with a device. A card and connector retention system for retaining a printed circuit card assembly to a device and a connector to the printed circuit card assembly. The system includes a connector assembly for retaining a printed circuit card assembly to a device; and, a connector retention apparatus for resiliently retaining connectors of different heights in mated engagement with the printed circuit card assembly. The connector retention apparatus is couplable to the connector assembly. A method of assembly is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jessica Rose Berens, Dano Ben Lange, Scott Raymond LaPree
  • Patent number: 6716058
    Abstract: A cradle device of a portable terminal such as a PDA (personal digital assistance). The cradle device of the portable terminal has a cradle body on which the portable terminal is placed; and a holder to embrace the portable terminal settled on the cradle body. The holder is rotatable with respect to the cradle body within a predetermined angular range. A bracket hinge is settled at the cradle body, and a bracket shaft is settled at the holder. A friction member is disposed between the bracket hinge and the bracket shaft with a predetermined friction force. Accordingly, an angle of the holder can be freely adjusted when the portable terminal is embraced by the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae-Sam Youn
  • Patent number: 6692297
    Abstract: An electrical card connector includes an insulative housing (3), a plurality of terminals (5) received in the housing, and two fixing clips (7) attached to the housing. The insulative housing has a header (15) including a pivot (25), a plurality of passageways (21) for receiving the terminals therein, and two guiding bars (17) extending from two ends of the header each having a ledge (23) at a front end thereof. The pivot projects from each end of the header to provide a rotational axis for the fixing clip. The ledge includes a first positioning recess (45), a sliding face (47) and a second positioning recess (49). Each fixing clip has a base plate (29) fixed to a PCB, a joint section (33) extending from the base plate to prevent over-rotation of the housing, and an engaging section (35) for engaging with the insulative housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shun Chi Dong
  • Publication number: 20040014357
    Abstract: A connector system for use adjacent a seat to allow a user seated at the seat to couple a computing device conveniently and easily, via the connector system, to a computer network. The connector system includes a main housing which houses a plurality of communications jacks as well as a plurality of power jacks. A flexible member couples the main housing to a mount assembly. The mount assembly is secured via U-shaped clamps to an existing structural member of the seat assembly. The main housing can be adjusted fore and aft relative to the mount assembly via a pair of set screws that engage the flexible member. The flexible member allows a degree of play in the event a user bumps the main housing with his or her legs while climbing into or out of the seat.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: January 22, 2004
    Inventors: John L. Madera, Tina M. Lanfear
  • Patent number: 6655986
    Abstract: In order to improve a proximity switch comprising a bearing body with a bearing opening, a sensor head having a proximity sensor with a sensor circuit arranged therein, a bearing attachment piece held on the sensor head and mounted in the bearing opening for rotation about an axis, and a plug connection having a connection side arranged on a side of the bearing attachment piece opposite the sensor head and comprising a connection sleeve and a contact insert arranged in the connection sleeve, such that a plug connector is connectable to the plug connection in a way which in terms of ergonomics is as suitable as possible, it is proposed that the connection sleeve be held non-rotatably in the bearing attachment piece and that the contact insert be mounted in the connection sleeve for rotation relative thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Balluff GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Kroll
  • Patent number: 6634794
    Abstract: A connector assembly comprises a panel having a plurality of apertures formed therein. Each aperture is adapted to accept a pivot member of a connector. A plurality of flexible members are proximate each aperture. For each aperture, the plurality of flexible members are configured to maintain a centering bias on a connector when such connector is supported in the respective aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Bassel H. Daoud, Ivan Pawlenko
  • Patent number: 6634904
    Abstract: A flexible computer connection attaches to a passenger seat in an airplane to supply a personal computer used by a passenger with electrical power and communications with an external location such as a ground source for telecommunications and connecting to the internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2003
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Willie P. Rowland, Donald B. Lee
  • Patent number: 6619982
    Abstract: A rotor case on a charge adapter has a first rotational position for holding a cellular phone in an upright position, and a second rotational position for holding a cellular phone in a tilted position. The upright position is suitable for holding the cellular phone during charging only, while the tilted position holds the cellular phone while permitting connection of a data connector to the bottom of the cellular phone. The rotor case has a generally prismatic shape with an eccentrically located rotational connection to the remainder of the charge adapter. The eccentric rotational location moves the center of gravity of the cellular phone to maintain stable positioning of the center of gravity of the cellular phone in both the upright charging-only position and the tilted charging-communicating position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: SMK Corporation
    Inventor: Shigenori Tamura
  • Publication number: 20030129871
    Abstract: A telecommunications patch panel is provided having a plurality of connector modules rotatably mounted to a frame member. Each connector module has a front face and an opposite facing rear face, and each front face includes a plurality of connector jacks. Each rear face includes a plurality of wire termination blocks. The wire termination blocks are electrically connected to the connector jacks. Each connector module is rotatable about a rotation axis relative to the frame member. A lock selectively locks each connector module to the frame member as desired. The connector jacks and the connector modules are arranged in linear arrays perpendicular to the axis of rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Applicant: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jay Follingstad
  • Patent number: 6566865
    Abstract: A non-contact displacement detecting device including a permanent magnet fixed with a rotational member, a sensor portion fixed with a non-rotational member, and the sensor portion detects a displacement of a detected object connected with the shaft. The non-contact displacement detecting device includes a housing for supporting the rotational member rotatably and restricting one movement of the rotational member in an axial direction, and a holder for contacting with the rotational member at a plurality of contact points and restricting another movement of the rotational member in the axial direction. Thereby, the movement of the rotational member in the axial direction is restricted by the holder and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Keiji Yasuda, Hisayoshi Okuya