Parts Comprisng Ball And Socket Patents (Class 439/8)
  • Patent number: 11944784
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are combined devices and methods of manufacturing such combined devices. The combined devices disclosed herein include an analyte sensor including a sensor probe; an infusion set hub including a cannula; and a flexible base. The analyte sensor and infusion set hub are attached to the flexible base such that movement of one of the analyte sensor and the infusion set hub is substantially not transferred to the other one of the analyte sensor and the infusion set hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: Medtronic Minimed, Inc.
    Inventors: Guangping Zhang, Kiem H. Dang, Valerie Chen, Ling Jiang, Evan Anselmo, Zhiwu Fang, Sarnath Chattaraj
  • Patent number: 11942719
    Abstract: An ROV, diver, or stab, wet mateable connector plug front end housing includes a housing front section; a locator mount section; and a seal section axially in series with one another. The housing front section includes a plug coarse alignment feature on an outer surface of the housing front section, adjacent to a front surface of the housing front section and radially outward of a central axis of the housing. There is a circumferential groove on the outer surface of the housing front section, axially displaced from and rearward of the coarse alignment feature, the groove being adapted to receive a latch of a wet-mateable connector receptacle front end housing. The plug coarse alignment feature includes a bullnose feature. A plug fine alignment feature is formed in the outer surface of the housing front section, aligned with and located radially outward of the central axis of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2024
    Assignee: Siemens Energy Global GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Christopher Burrow, Kelly Turner, Daniel Walton
  • Patent number: 11608127
    Abstract: Trailer electrical connector assemblies can facilitate the automatic coupling and decoupling of a trailer. A trailer electrical connector assembly can include a vehicle portion and a trailer portion. The vehicle portion can include a hitch ring that is secured to a hitch ball and guides within which contacts are positioned. The trailer portion can include a sleeve that is positioned around a coupling mechanism of the trailer and a sleeve ring that forms receivers within which contacts are positioned. When the hitch ball is inserted into the trailer's coupling mechanism, the receivers can be automatically coupled with the guides to thereby form an electrical connection between the vehicle and the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2022
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2023
    Assignee: Mod.al Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Erick Vega, Kreg Peeler, Angela Brimhall, Jeremy Carter
  • Patent number: 11063389
    Abstract: A connector structure includes a first connector and a second connector configured to rotatably connect the first connector. The first connector includes an insulating support, a first conductor and a second conductor. The first and second conductors respectively include first and second convex curved surfaces. The second connector includes first and second insulating housings and first and second conductive layers. The first and second insulating housings are configured to cover at least a portion of the first conductor and at least a portion of the second conductor, respectively. The first conductive layer includes a first concave curved surface matching the first convex curved surface, and is configured to be in contact with the first conductor. The second conductive layer includes a second concave curved surface matching the second convex curved surface, and is configured to be in contact with the second conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2021
    Assignee: E Ink Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Huei-Chuan Lee, Yen-Ze Huang, Chih-Chun Chen, Chin-Chi Yu
  • Patent number: 10804663
    Abstract: A connector adapter including a pivot connector frame, a clamping shroud configured to fit through the pivot connector frame, a connector case disposed within the clamping shroud, a sliding sheath to which the connector case is connected, and a bulkhead adapter cavity formed within the connector case, wherein the connector case is configured for rotatable movement and slidable movement within the pivot connector frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Inventor: Steve Cheng
  • Patent number: 10774995
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a plate-shaped LED lamp fixture with an irradiation angle setting function for an Edison socket, including a threaded portion and a terminal on the periphery and the lower end of a base coupled to the Edison socket, a screw portion formed on an upper end of the base, a sphere body formed above the screw portion, a concave inlet portion in close contact with the sphere body above the screw portion, an engagement member configured by installing a connection plate above, a cover which covers the outside of the concave inlet portion of the engagement member and formed integrally with a tightening nut fastened to the screw portion of the base, and first position fixing means and second position fixing means fixed to the connection plate above the engagement member and fix the plate-shaped LED, and the plate-shaped LED is fixed at a required angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2020
    Inventor: Young Chel Shim
  • Patent number: 9343825
    Abstract: A shield connector (10) includes a housing (20) and first and second terminals (50, 60) accommodated in the housing (20). The housing (20) includes first recesses (17) for positioning first connecting portions (51) in a rotation stop state by having first protrusions (52) fitted therein, second recesses (18) for positioning second connecting portions (61) in a rotation stop state by having second protrusions (62) fitted therein and terminal connecting portions (13) to which the first and second connecting portions (51, 62) are to be connected by coaxially arranging first bolt holes (54) and second bolt holes (64) as the first and second connecting portions are positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomokazu Kashiwada, Masafumi Uno, Kiyotaka Itsuki
  • Patent number: 9325134
    Abstract: A pivot connector comprising a body element and a retention element that comprises a body element interface structure (comprising at least a first pivot alignment structure), the body element comprising a retention element interface region that comprises a pivot alignment structure-receiving region. A power input assembly comprising a pivot connector, an electrical connector region and an electrical conductor that extends through an internal space defined by the retention element and that is electrically connected to the electrical connector region. An electrical connector apparatus comprising a power input assembly, a second electrical connector region and a power input assembly engagement region. A method comprising pivoting a retention element relative to a body element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Cree, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter E. Lopez, James Michael Lay
  • Patent number: 9204228
    Abstract: A hearing instrument contains a case and a sound tube. The instrument has a case/tube connection that is simple, easy to assemble, and can be established and released in a reversible manner. The hearing instrument has a case in which a receiver is disposed, and a sound tube for conveying output signals. Disposed in the case is a mounting insert having a receiver compartment and a socket. The receiver is inserted in the receiver compartment and the socket has a circumferential recess or ridge. The sound tube has a plug with a ridge or recess corresponding to the circumferential recess or ridge of the socket. The socket and plug can be reversibly interconnected and detached. The mounting insert obviates the need for an additional sound-conducting connecting piece between receiver and sound tube. This reduces the component count and improves a seal-tightness of the connection between receiver and sound tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2015
    Assignee: Sivantos Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Mo Choong Marie Chan, Wee Haw Koo
  • Patent number: 9166354
    Abstract: An adjustable at least three-way electrical connector device for signal, power, voice and/or data communication, comprising at least three adjustable electrical connections utilizing a ball and socket type physical connection device, preferably including a weatherproofing gasket, and further including being constructed utilizing deformable printed circuit boards, deformed and embedded in thermosetting plastic material with elastomeric properties, and including methods of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Inventor: John R. Robb
  • Patent number: 9147962
    Abstract: Provided with a first connector part to connect a first cable, a second connector part to connect a second cable, and to fit with a first connector part, thereby ensuring electrical connection between a first cable and a second cable, and a housing to hold a second connector part rotatably around an axial direction of a second cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Haruki Yoshida, Osamu Shinmura, Jun Asada, Kazuhiro Yokoyama, Tsuyoshi Mizushima
  • Patent number: 9113663
    Abstract: The present invention provides a unit or segment having a ball, a socket and a connector with the connector physically linking the ball and socket together such that a main opening of the socket continuous with the socket cavity faces away from the connected ball. Alternatively, a unit/segment may instead include a ball and a socket coupled directly together. Elongated structures comprising a plurality of units joined together in series, such as through ball joints and other connections, are further provided that may vary greatly in length and size. The ball and socket may have corresponding electromagnets and magnetic materials, respectively, that may attract or repel each other to cause controlled rotational movement of the individual ball joint(s) by controlling the operation of the electromagnets. Higher order structures including one or more elongated structures are further provided. Methods for constructing and/or operating units and/or elongated structures are further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas Stern
  • Publication number: 20150132974
    Abstract: An adapter for using two one-way light bulbs in a three-way light socket comprises a lower body, a first female socket body, and a second female socket body. The lower body comprises a male metal threaded base for screwing into a three-way light socket. The first female socket body is connected to the lower body and comprises a first female threaded socket for receiving a first one-way light bulb. The second female socket body is connected to the lower body and comprises a second female threaded socket for receiving a second one-way light bulb. The first one-way light bulb is energized when the three-way light socket switch is in a low position, the second one-way light bulb is energized when the three-way light socket switch is in a medium position, and both one-way light bulbs are energized when the three-way light socket switch is in a high position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: DAVID W. KAPELLA
  • Publication number: 20150093917
    Abstract: The present invention provides a unit or segment having a ball, a socket and a connector with the connector physically linking the ball and socket together such that a main opening of the socket continuous with the socket cavity faces away from the connected ball. Alternatively, a unit/segment may instead include a ball and a socket coupled directly together. Elongated structures comprising a plurality of units joined together in series, such as through ball joints and other connections, are further provided that may vary greatly in length and size. The ball and socket may have corresponding electromagnets and magnetic materials, respectively, that may attract or repel each other to cause controlled rotational movement of the individual ball joint(s) by controlling the operation of the electromagnets. Higher order structures including one or more elongated structures are further provided. Methods for constructing and/or operating units and/or elongated structures are further provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventor: Thomas Stern
  • Patent number: 8864546
    Abstract: A building block set comprises a plurality of transparent blocks each having a hollow internal cavity with a light source fitted within each cavity and first and second electrically conductive connectors extending through each block and into the internal cavity with a circuit within the cavity for illuminating the light in response to an electronic input to either connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventor: Jon P. Capriola
  • Patent number: 8672693
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a USB interface comprising a turnover joint (21), a rotating joint (22) and a connecting shaft (24) connecting the turnover joint (21) with the rotating joint (22); wherein one end of the turnover joint (21) is connected to a data product body (1), and the other end is connected to the rotating joint (22); and the end of the rotating joint (22) that is away from the turnover joint (21) is provided with a connecting terminal (25), which is connected to the data product body (1) via a cable (27); the rotating joint (22) is rotatable relative to the turnover joint (21). The present invention further discloses a data product with the USB interface. Using the present invention, when the data product is plugged into an electronic product, a variety of different position relationships may be generated with respect to the electronic product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: ZTE Corporation
    Inventor: Ning Liu
  • Patent number: 8573983
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electric connector that comprises a plurality of electric connection elements (7) including a first electric contact portion (13) and a second electric contact portion (15), respectively, the electric contact portion (13, 15) including a male connector (32) or a female connector. Each electric connection element (7) further includes a rigid electric linking member (17) having one end connected via a first hinge (19) to the first contact portion (13) while the other end is connected via a second hinge (21) to the second electric contact portion (15), the first electric contact portions (13) being supported in a first base (3) while the second electric contact portions (15) are supported in a second base (5). The invention further relates to a corresponding electric connection element and to an electric linking member, and to a method for assembling such a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Nicomatic SA
    Inventor: David Zieder
  • Patent number: 8517743
    Abstract: A multiple port connector for multi-contact, universally jointed, power and/or signal connector devices including a housing providing a plurality of universal port units, preferably providing for the attachment of electrical and/or signal devices to the universal port units in parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Inventor: John Robb
  • Patent number: 8390247
    Abstract: A device for a plug in vehicle includes a cord with a ball-like covering that allows it to be dropped. The cord bounces when dropped, and no damage is caused. There is also an electrical actuator that is based on when the vehicle is in a mode that allows it to be charged. When the vehicle is in the charge mode, the actuator either magnetically attracts the cord, or tightens against the cord to hold it more tightly If the vehicle is put in reverse, for example, the actuator is deenergized, and the cord is less tightly held, facilitating its disconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventors: David M. Harris, Scott C. Harris
  • Publication number: 20130052839
    Abstract: A connection structure which electrically connects, through a conductive ball, a first contact which is provided at an electrical wiring member and a second contact which is provided at an electrical component, wherein a bottom surface of a case is provided with a ball assembly-use passage, the first contact is provided at the electrical wiring member facing the ball assembly-use passage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2012
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Akito IWAMA
  • Patent number: 8376756
    Abstract: An adjustable at least three-way electrical connector device for signal, power, voice and/or data communication, comprising at least three adjustable electrical connections utilizing a ball and socket type physical connection device, preferably including a weatherproofing gasket, and further including being constructed utilizing deformable printed circuit boards, deformed and embedded in thermosetting plastic material with elastomeric properties, and including methods of construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: John R. Robb
  • Patent number: 8303312
    Abstract: A high voltage subsea electrical penetrator. A first housing part is connectable to a second housing part. The first and second housing parts in connected mode define a seat for accommodation of a bushing including a conductor pin arranged in an insulator body. The first and second housing parts each have a part-spherical seat surface supporting a corresponding region of the bushing. The bushing includes a material of relatively high compressive strength, in the form of a polymeric material or a ceramic material, that is molded into spherical outer shape about a bulbous portion of the conductor pin, and clamped as a unitary form-fitting element in the seat upon connection of the first and second housing parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Veteo Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventors: Erik Raad, Rune Sletten
  • Publication number: 20120258608
    Abstract: A multiple port connector for multi-contact, universally jointed, power and/or signal connector devices including a housing providing a plurality of universal port units, preferably providing for the attachment of electrical and/or signal devices to the universal port units in parallel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Inventor: John Robb
  • Patent number: 8172625
    Abstract: In a pair of mutually connectable terminals, one terminal is provided with a joint having a spherical surface formed on the outer circumferential surface, and the other terminal is provided with a hole into which the joint can be fitted. At least one of the joint and the hole is formed in a plate member which can be displaced elastically in the fitting direction of the joint and the hole. When the pair of terminals are connected, the joint touches the circumferential edge of the hole to displace the plate member elastically. When the joint is fitted in the hole, the plate member is reset elastically and holds the spherical surface of the joint under such a state as the spherical surface is pressed against the edge of the hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2012
    Assignees: Autonetworks Technologies, Ltd, Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomokazu Kashiwada, Sho Miyazaki, Shiro Nishida, Masaharu Suetani, Kiyoshi Hasegawa
  • Publication number: 20110136349
    Abstract: A battery connector including an electrical connector including a plurality of terminals, each mechanically and electrically connectable with a battery, the terminals being in electrical communication with each other and mechanically connected to each other with a joint member that permits flexing the batteries with respect to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventor: Dov Pikielny
  • Publication number: 20110081788
    Abstract: An adjustable at least three-way electrical connector device for signal, power, voice and/or data communication, comprising at least three adjustable electrical connections utilizing a ball and socket type physical connection device, preferably including a weatherproofing gasket, and further including being constructed utilizing deformable printed circuit boards, deformed and embedded in thermosetting plastic material with elastomeric properties, and including methods of construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: John R. Robb
  • Patent number: 7896654
    Abstract: An electric connection structure includes a metal element (1) with an axle cavity and a metal element (2) with an axle head. The cross section edges of the hinge faces between the axle cavity and the axle head are in gradual spiral line type. As both the metal elements (1, 2) have larger corner, the hinge faces have larger space which will disappear when the metal elements rotate to be approximately horizontal, and the axle head and the axle cavity will attain compression force to be tightly combined in continuous rotation of the metal elements so as to have a large electric contact face, tight contact, non-loosen, and free maintenance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Gulifa Group Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zhe Zheng
  • Patent number: 7887331
    Abstract: A light bulb socket adapter includes an adapter base and at least one lamp holder. The adapter base includes a base having a ring contact and a tip contact. The at least one lamp holder is oscillatingly mounted to the adapter base through an oscillating connection assembly. The oscillating connection assembly has a ball-holding mechanism mounted on an end opposite to the base of the adapter base, and at least one ball fixedly connected with the respective lamp holder and oscillatingly engaged with the ball-holding mechanism. The present invention allows the light bulb mounted thereon to irradiate in a desired direction and a bayonet-type bulb to be mounted in a conventional screw-type socket without requiring an additional socket adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Ming-Ing Lin
  • Patent number: 7854614
    Abstract: An adjustable at least four-way electrical connector for signal, power, voice and/or data communication, comprising at least four adjustable electrical connections utilizing a ball and socket type physical connection device and including a weatherproofing gasket; also an adjustable fiber optic connection device utilizing ball and socket type construction wherein an optical fiber can be split into a plurality of optical fibers via a connection device providing for rotation and pivoting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventor: John R. Robb
  • Publication number: 20100285672
    Abstract: A variable configuration apparatus has components or sub-systems. At least some components (200 and 201) have mechanical coupling elements (101 and 102 and 103) that enable the configuration of the apparatus to be varied by changing at least one of the relative orientation and position of those components or subsystems. These mechanical coupling elements (101 and 102 and 103) incorporate wireless signal coupling elements (205 and 206) that cooperate to provide a wireless coupling which enables wireless coupling between the components. The wireless coupling may be used to transfer at least one of data and power between the components. The wireless signal coupling elements may be capacitive coupling elements that provide capacitive coupling between the components or sub-systems. In an example, the apparatus is a video camera and one component or sub-system is a display screen (201) and another component or sub-system is the main body (200) of the video camera (200).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2010
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Peter Symons, Timothy Ward, Ian Keen, Kevin Lamacraft, Richard Underwood
  • Patent number: 7810985
    Abstract: A multiple function night light includes at least one night light receptacle and a swivel or rotating prong as a basic unit which may further incorporate additional functions as desired to prevent the electric wall outlet receptacle from being occupied by just one single function night light. The night light includes a light source such as a gas filled light, neon or black tube, fluorescent tube, LED, OLED, EL, or OEL with appropriate circuit means to provide a predetermined light performance, duration, and timing for illumination. The swiveling or rotating prong offers universal installation to wall outlets. The additional functions may selected from fragrance, bluetooth device, insect repellant device, sensor device, infrared device, remote control device, power failure light, emergency light, or other electric device(s).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: Taeng-Lu Chien
  • Patent number: 7748860
    Abstract: The identification device comprises at least one electroluminescent wire that extends along the cable or duct to be identified. The electroluminescent wire is designed to be electrically supplied in a temporary manner, so as to display the path of the cable or duct. This device is applicable to the identification of electrical cables, or pneumatic and hydraulic ducts, or fibre-optic cables or cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Patrice Brunet
  • Publication number: 20100144163
    Abstract: An electric connection structure includes a metal element (1) with an axle cavity and a metal element (2) with an axle head. The cross section edges of the hinge faces between the axle cavity and the axle head are in gradual spiral line type. As both the metal elements (1, 2) have larger corner, the hinge faces have larger space which will disappear when the metal elements rotate to be approximately horizontal, and the axle head and the axle cavity will attain compression force to be tightly combined in continuous rotation of the metal elements so as to have a large electric contact face, tight contact, non-loosen, and free maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Publication date: June 10, 2010
    Inventor: Zhe Zheng
  • Publication number: 20090154883
    Abstract: An adjustable at least four-way electrical connector for signal, power, voice and/or data communication, comprising at least four adjustable electrical connections utilizing a ball and socket type physical connection device and including a weatherproofing gasket; also an adjustable fiber optic connection device utilizing ball and socket type construction wherein an optical fiber can be split into a plurality of optical fibers via a connection device providing for rotation and pivoting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 12, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Inventor: John R. Robb
  • 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: 7510420
    Abstract: A connector hub apparatus is provided that can rotate along two different axes in two different planes with respect to an upstream connector plug, so that the hub can be easily positioned in a variety of configurations In one embodiment of the present invention, the connector hub apparatus comprises a first body with a plurality of downstream connectors, a second body with an upstream connector operatively coupled to the plurality of downstream connectors, a ratcheting mechanism that allows the first body to rotate to a first set of predetermined positions within a first plane, and a hinge that allows the second body to rotate to a second set of predetermined positions within a second plane, wherein the second plane is perpendicular with respect to the first plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Mori
  • Patent number: 7458887
    Abstract: A remaining coin amount detecting apparatus is provided for a coin hopper, disposed on a lower portion of a cylindrical storing bowl. The coin hopper dispenses coins one by one using a rotary disk fixed on a rotary shaft rotated by a driving apparatus. At least a part of a surface of the rotary disk includes a conductor, and the conductor is electrically connected to a detecting terminal disposed inside the storing bowl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Asahi Seiko Company Ltd.
    Inventor: Motoharu Kurosawa
  • Patent number: 7393212
    Abstract: A rotating power receptacle for an electronic device is provided. The power receptacle includes a socket, coupled to a circuit board, and providing power to an electronic device. The power receptacle also includes a post connector that is in rotating contact with the socket. The power receptacle further includes a flexible ground spring, coupled to the circuit board; the flexible ground spring extending adjacent to the post connector and providing a ground connection for the electronic device. The power receptacle also includes a rotating member that is positioned in an opening in a housing of the electronic device. The rotating member has an opening through which a power supply connector is enabled to connect to the post connector and the flexible ground spring to provide a rotating power connection for the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Jeffrey C. Parker
  • Patent number: 7341457
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical or optical connector of the type comprising a fixed male connector part or receptacle (3) having at least one axial contact pin (7), and a mobile female connector part or plug (1) capable of being coupled to the said receptacle (3) on its front part and having a female contact part, receiving the contact pin (7) upon coupling of the connector, the said plug (1) having a rear handle (11) allowing the coupling or uncoupling manoeuvre of the connector, for example by a remote-controlled vehicle, by means of an arm and an end pincer for gripping the said handle (11), characterized in that the rear body part (15) of the plug (1) has a cavity (19), capturing with limited angular displacement in axial alignment a ball-joint element (13) rigidly fixed to the said rear handle (11), the said ball-joint element (13) being held in along the axis of the plug (1) by a spring means (35), the ball-joint element (13) also comprising at least one longitudinal spline designed to engage int
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Carrier Kheops Bac
    Inventors: Cédric Lagathu, Josselin Legeay
  • Patent number: 7247028
    Abstract: Connector devices that provide multiple degrees of freedom of motion between a first connector head and additional connector heads and/or electronic devices are described. The multiple degrees of freedom of motion permit motion in one or both of two planes and, perhaps, rotation about an axis in a controlled and fixed manner. Such connector devices allow peripheral devices to be folded or rotated in close proximity to a hosting device. Connector devices that incorporate circuitry for implementing distribution/hub functionality are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Ideative Product Ventures, Inc.
    Inventor: Tavis D. Schriefer
  • Patent number: 7175441
    Abstract: A multiple positioning assembly includes a housing having a cavity therein with a circumferential groove disposed proximate a cavity opening. A ball assembly including a ball portion forms a spheroidal joint with the cavity which enables conical movement of the ball assembly. A plunger is slidably disposed within a bore through the ball portion of the ball assembly and electrical connections enable lateral movement of the plunger to control power to a light bulb attached to the plunger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Bal Seal Engineering Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Jacques Naviaux, Peter J. Balsells
  • Patent number: 7121852
    Abstract: A connector structure is proposed, which includes a body having at least one containing space; at least one first connector being inwardly disposed at one end of the body; at least one second connector being pivotally disposed on the other end of the body, which can be accommodated in the containing space of the body; and at least one rotating element being pivotally connected onto one end of the body, the second connector being fastened onto the rotating element, wherein the rotating element at least has one arm portion, one end of the arm portion being disposed with a pivotal connecting portion which connects to one end of the body. The connector structure further has a switch actuated by the rotation of the pivotal connecting portion of the rotating element thereof, wherein the rotation angle of the switch can control electric conduction of the first connector and the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: Inventec Multimedia & Telecom Corporation
    Inventors: Chong-Khai Ng, Shih-Hsiung Weng
  • Patent number: 7080985
    Abstract: A quick release connector is provided. In one embodiment the connector includes an electrical connector including a first component having a first plurality of teeth and a second component having a second plurality of teeth. The first and second pluralities of teeth are configured to selectively engage and disengage one another upon connecting and disconnecting the connector. The engagement of the teeth is operative to substantially prevent relative axial motion between the first and second portions of the connector. Embodiments of this invention may advantageously support axial loads while maintaining a reliable electrical contact. Various alternative embodiments include a gimbal assembly in which electric lines extend through the gimbal, straddling one of the gimbal axles. Such gimbal assemblies may also support axial loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Michael B. Hopper
  • Patent number: 7056125
    Abstract: The device, suitable for connecting one end of an operating cable to a control member, particularly a control lever of a vehicle gearbox, includes: an outer body to be attached to the operating cable, having a through opening; and a bush arranged to be inserted into the through opening of the body to be locked inside it in a final assembled position and having a snap-action spherical seat for receiving a ball head of a pin to be connected to the control member. The spherical seat is provided with an elastically deformable element formed integrally with the bush and extending from the top of the seat in such a way as to elastically oppose the insertion of the ball head into the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Sila Holding Industriale S.p.A.
    Inventors: Salvatore Melis, Angelo Tancredi
  • Patent number: 6979236
    Abstract: In accordance with one aspect of the invention, an electrical wedge connector assembly is disclosed. The assembly comprises a shell, an eye bolt and a wedge sized and shaped to be inserted into the shell for connecting two conductors to each other. The eye bolt comprises a swivel joint adapted to be inserted into the wedge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: FCI Americas Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel J. Stanton
  • Patent number: 6942489
    Abstract: A dockable connection assembly attached to the ceiling of a motor vehicle so that passengers can enjoy watching a display monitor at desired and comfortable angles while still being able to access the electrical components of the display screen and its counterparts in video technology. This structure allows for the screen to move at all angles, whether it be up, down, clockwise, or counterclockwise. The structure also has a safety feature that will allow for disengagement in case of emergency situations. This dockable connection assembly comprises a retainer assembly, a connector assembly, and a harness assembly. The retainer assembly provides the support for the entirety of the dockable connection assembly by holding the connector assembly and the display monitor onto the ceiling. The connector assembly provides for the electric connection a point of contact and allows for the rotation of the display monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: John M. Tiesler
  • Patent number: 6893267
    Abstract: A USB plug with a multi-directional rotation structure, adopted for a portable electronic device, is used for mating with an electronic product having a USB port. The USB plug has a first hollow spherical housing, and a second hollow spherical housing having an internal diameter longer than an external diameter of the first hollow spherical housing for the first hollow spherical housing to be partially wrapped in the second hollow spherical housing. The first hollow spherical housing contacts and slides on the second hollow spherical housing, and adjusts a relative displacement therebetween so as to the second hollow spherical housing rotates in multiple directions. The second hollow spherical housing can be manipulated with no angular limitations, and therefore objects of orientating the USB plug in a suitable attitude and resolving an arrangement of peripheral apparatuses mating with the electronic product are achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Inventor: Wen Hsiang Yueh
  • Patent number: 6837716
    Abstract: A ball socket suitable for a headlamp adjustment assembly. The ball socket has a ring, a plurality of arches and outwardly directed tabs aligned with the arches. Panels between the arches each have outwardly directed ledges. Inwardly directed fingers are provided between the arches substantially aligned with the ledges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Peter B. Brazas
  • Patent number: 6825417
    Abstract: A cable end fitting assembly, adapted for attachment to a mounting plate in a motor vehicle, has a circumferential groove for receiving the edge of the mounting plate. A second part of the assembly is rotatable relative to the circumferential groove, and has a thumb pad for pressing the assembly into a recess in the mounting plate. The thumb pad also serves to align the assembly in the recess so that resillient projections extending from the assembly can engage indentations in the recess to secure the assembly to the mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Ball
  • Patent number: 6786743
    Abstract: A connector hub assembly having universal joint comprises a housing including at least a first connector having its mating portion accessible from a surface of the housing. A joint device is universally attached to the housing such that the housing is moveable along a first plane. A second connector is attached to the joint device. The joint device includes a socket defined in a recessed portion of the housing and a ball joint swivelably received in the socket. Wherein the joint device further includes a pin shaft located on an end of supporting arm of the ball joint, wherein the second connector is pivotally mounted on the pin shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Inventor: Yea Yen Huang