Patents by Inventor Charles Hughes

Charles Hughes has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 7731514
    Abstract: A loadbreak connector system and methods for visible break include first and second mating connector assemblies configured to make or break an electrical connection under energized circuit conditions, the first and second mating connectors selectively positionable relative to one another. One of the first and second mating connectors includes an arc follower, and the other of the first and second mating connectors includes an arc interrupter. The arc interrupter is configured to receive the arc follower, and the first and second meting connectors are positionable in an disconnected position wherein the arc follower remains engaged to and is located within the arc interrupter. Arc energy is distributed among multiple locations to reduce arc intensity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Brian Todd Steinbrecher
  • Publication number: 20100136823
    Abstract: A fuse test and ground device includes an insulated housing with a bore that extends from the front of the housing towards the rear of the housing. An electrical contact is disposed partially within the bore. A current interrupter, such as a fuse, is electrically connected between the contact and a testing ground lead. An eye, having it's surface insulated by the housing, can be attached to the housing and provide a connection point for manipulation of the device. A grounding bore extends from a second aperture into the housing and provides an electrical connection to the contact. A grounding plug can be connected to ground on one end and inserted into the grounding bore to create a permanent ground for the device. An annunciator is connected to the current interrupter such that the annunciator provides an indication when a current flows through the current interrupter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Steven Guy Whitmore
  • Publication number: 20100136824
    Abstract: A fuse test and ground device includes an insulated housing with a bore that extends from the front of the housing towards the rear of the housing. An electrical contact is disposed partially within the bore. A current interrupter, such as a fuse, is electrically connected between the contact and a testing ground lead. An eye, having it's surface insulated by the housing, can be attached to the housing and provide a connection point for manipulation of the device. A grounding bore extends from a second aperture into the housing and provides an electrical connection to the contact. A grounding plug can be connected to ground on one end and inserted into the grounding bore to create a permanent ground for the device. An annunciator is connected to the current interrupter such that the annunciator provides an indication when a current flows through the current interrupter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Publication date: June 3, 2010
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Steven Guy Whitmore
  • Patent number: 7708576
    Abstract: A high-voltage electrical connector system comprises a bushing with a longitudinal axis, a shoulder, a first end, and a second end, wherein the shoulder is between the first end and the second end; a ring arranged circumferentially around a first outside diameter of the bushing, the ring disposed between the shoulder and the second end, the ring including a channel therein defining a circumferential extension extending axially toward the first end; a ground shield disposed on a second outside diameter of the bushing between the ring and the second end, the ground shield comprising one or more of conductive material and semiconductive material; and an insulative portion adjacent the ring and disposed circumferentially over a portion of the ground shield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Marie Way, Mark Kadow
  • Publication number: 20100095524
    Abstract: A jacket sleeve with grippable tabs provides protection to exposed portions of cable that are connected to an electrical connection. The jacket sleeve can be made as part of the electrical connector or may be connected subsequent to its creation through the use of glues or other adhesives. The jacket sleeve can be made of a material that is more pliable than the electrical connector, making it easier for a lineperson to place the sleeve over an exposed portion of cable. The jacket sleeve can include holes or slots either in the sleeve or in tabs that are attached to the sleeve. A lineperson can place one or more fingers into each hole or slot in order to get a better grip on the sleeve and pull the sleeve over the exposed portion of cable with less slippage and effort on the part of the lineperson.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, John Mitchell Makal, Michael John Gebhard, SR., Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Patent number: 7695291
    Abstract: A fuse test and ground device includes an insulated housing with a bore that extends from the front of the housing towards the rear of the housing. An electrical contact is disposed partially within the bore. A current interrupter, such as a fuse, is electrically connected between the contact and a testing ground lead. An eye, having it's surface insulated by the housing, can be attached to the housing and provide a connection point for manipulation of the device. A grounding bore extends from a second aperture into the housing and provides an electrical connection to the contact. A grounding plug can be connected to ground on one end and inserted into the grounding bore to create a permanent ground for the device. An annunciator is connected to the current interrupter such that the annunciator provides an indication when a current flows through the current interrupter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Steven Guy Whitmore
  • Publication number: 20100075520
    Abstract: Separable insulated connector systems for power distribution systems wherein the interfaces of the mating connectors are modified to reduce mating and separation force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Patent number: 7670152
    Abstract: A dual interface separable insulated connector comprising a faraday cage molded over a bus bar for use in an electric power system and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The faraday cage can be disposed within a semi-conductive shell. The configuration of the separable insulated connector can provide for easier bonding between the faraday cage and insulating material. Additionally, the configuration can eliminate or reduce the need to coat the bus bar with an adhesive agent and to smooth the metal bus bar to remove burrs, other irregularities, and sharp corners from the bar. Manufacturing the dual interface separable insulated connector can include molding a semi-conductive rubber faraday cage over a conductive bus bar, inserting the faraday cage into a shell, and injecting insulating material between the faraday cage and shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Mark Clifford Kadow, Michael John Gebhard, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7670162
    Abstract: Separating connector assemblies of a separable connector system. The separable connector assemblies include one or more pairs of connectors configured to engage and disengage one another in electrical connection and disconnection operations, respectively. An operator can disengage the connectors by pushing the connectors together and then pulling the connectors apart. Pushing the connectors together shears interface adhesion between the connectors, making it easier for the operator to pull the connectors apart. One of the connectors can include a nose end having an undercut segment configured to not engage an interior surface of the other connector when the connectors are engaged. Limiting the surface area of the nose end that interfaces with the interior surface of the other connector reduces surface adhesion and a pressure drop when separating the connectors, making separation easier to perform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventor: David Charles Hughes
  • Patent number: 7666012
    Abstract: Separable loadbreak connectors include an interference element spaced about the contact tube that is configured to engage a portion of a connector piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Patent number: 7661979
    Abstract: A jacket sleeve with grippable tabs provides protection to exposed portions of cable that are connected to an electrical connection. The jacket sleeve can be made as part of the electrical connector or may be connected subsequent to its creation through the use of glues or other adhesives. The jacket sleeve can be made of a material that is more pliable than the electrical connector, making it easier for a lineperson to place the sleeve over an exposed portion of cable. The jacket sleeve can include holes or slots either in the sleeve or in tabs that are attached to the sleeve. A lineperson can place one or more fingers into each hole or slot in order to get a better grip on the sleeve and pull the sleeve over the exposed portion of cable with less slippage and effort on the part of the lineperson.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, John Mitchell Makal, Michael John Gebhard, Sr., Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Publication number: 20100015829
    Abstract: Separable loadbreak connectors include an interference element spaced about the contact tube that is configured to engage a portion of a connector piston.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2009
    Publication date: January 21, 2010
    Applicant: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Patent number: 7633741
    Abstract: Apparatus, method, and system for rigidly supporting a switchgear bus assembly through the use of one or more support plates, thereby providing the primary support for the other active modules and bushings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Brian Todd Steinbrecher, Dan Wycklendt, Timothy A. Myers
  • Patent number: 7632120
    Abstract: A separable loadbreak connector and system includes a connector having a contact tube with an axial passage therethrough, and a contact member slidably mounted within the axial passage and movable therein during a fault closure condition. The contact member is axially movable within the passage with the assistance of an arc quenching gas during the fault closure condition, and a shock absorbent stop element is mounted to the contact tube and limiting movement of the contact member in the fault closure condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Publication number: 20090275223
    Abstract: A dual interface separable insulated connector comprising a faraday cage molded over a bus bar for use in an electric power system and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The faraday cage can be disposed within a semi-conductive shell. The configuration of the separable insulated connector can provide for easier bonding between the faraday cage and insulating material. Additionally, the configuration can eliminate or reduce the need to coat the bus bar with an adhesive agent and to smooth the metal bus bar to remove burrs, other irregularities, and sharp corners from the bar. Manufacturing the dual interface separable insulated connector can include molding a semi-conductive rubber faraday cage over a conductive bus bar, inserting the faraday cage into a shell, and injecting insulating material between the faraday cage and shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Mark Clifford Kadow, Michael John Gebhard, SR.
  • Publication number: 20090276042
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a macromonomer having a polydimethylsiloxane backbone that has a mol % dimethyl siloxanes, b mol % siloxanes substituted with -K-RIM, c mol % siloxanes substituted with -K-RIM-Z and d mol % siloxanes substituted with -L-Z, and in which the terminal siloxane groups are tri-substituted with R, wherein RIM is a refractive index modifying group; Z is a free radically polymerisable group; K is a spacer group; L is optional and is a spacer group; each R is independently selected from an RIM, a lower alkyl group, hydrogen or Z; and a is a molar percentage of the macromonomer which is in the range of from 0 to 95 mol %; b is a molar percentage of the macromonomer which is in the range of from 5 to 99 mol %; c is a molar percentage of the macromonomer which is in the range of from 0 to 2 mol %; and d is a molar percentage of the macromonomer which is in the range of from 0 to 2 mol %; with the proviso that c and d are not both 0 mol %.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2007
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: Vision CRC Limited
    Inventors: Timothy Charles Hughes, John Stuart Wilkie, Justine Leigh Jeffery, Xuan Thi Thanh Nguyen, Xiaojuan Hao
  • Publication number: 20090255106
    Abstract: Removal of a conventional separable insulated connector from an electric power system often results in a shortened electric cable. An extender for a separable insulated connector enables the separable insulated connector to connect to a shortened cable. A conventional cable adapter is inserted into the extender, which includes a conductive connector for accepting the shortened cable and a conductive rod for carrying electric power from the shortened cable to the separable insulated connector. The extender also includes an inner semi-conductive layer that borders the conductive rod and compression connector, an outer semi-conductive layer, and a insulating layer between the two semi-conductive layers. The extender is inserted into a separable insulated connector, which is then connected to the electric power system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Publication number: 20090258547
    Abstract: Removal of a conventional separable insulated connector from an electric power system often results in a shortened electric cable. An extender for a separable insulated connector enables the separable insulated connector to connect to a shortened cable. A conventional cable adapter is inserted into the extender, which includes a conductive connector for accepting the shortened cable and a conductive rod for carrying electric power from the shortened cable to the separable insulated connector. The extender also includes an inner semi-conductive layer that borders the conductive rod and compression connector, an outer semi-conductive layer, and a insulating layer between the two semi-conductive layers. The extender is inserted into a separable insulated connector, which is then connected to the electric power system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Paul Michael Roscizewski
  • Publication number: 20090233472
    Abstract: An electrical connector, such as a bushing insert, with a fault-closure lockout feature includes a housing with an inner bore having opposite ends. One end has an opening providing access to the inner bore. A piston-contact element is movable between first and second axially spaced positions within the inner bore. During fault conditions, the piston-contact element moves from the first position to the second position to accelerate connection with a male contact of another electrical connector, such as a cable connector, thereby inhibiting the formation of flashover or electrical arc. After fault closure, a lockout member on the piston-contact element prevents moving the piston-contact element from the second position to the first position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Inventor: David Charles Hughes
  • Publication number: 20090221163
    Abstract: A dual interface separable insulated connector comprising a faraday cage molded over a bus bar for use in an electric power system and a method of manufacturing the same are provided. The faraday cage can be disposed within a semi-conductive shell. The configuration of the separable insulated connector can provide for easier bonding between the faraday cage and insulating material. Additionally, the configuration can eliminate or reduce the need to coat the bus bar with an adhesive agent and to smooth the metal bus bar to remove burrs, other irregularities, and sharp corners from the bar. Manufacturing the dual interface separable insulated connector can include molding a semi-conductive rubber faraday cage over a conductive bus bar, inserting the faraday cage into a shell, and injecting insulating material between the faraday cage and shell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Applicant: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: David Charles Hughes, Mark Clifford Kadow, Michael John Gebhard, SR.