Adjustable Patents (Class 174/57)
  • Patent number: 7674990
    Abstract: One aspect of the present invention provides a poke-through assembly for installation in a hole in a floor structure. The floor structure defines a floor in a first working environment and a ceiling in a second working environment. The poke-through assembly includes at least one intumescent member, a base plate and an intumescent enclosure. The intumescent member is disposed at least partially between the floor of the first working environment and the ceiling of the second working environment. The base plate supports and is disposed below the intumescent member for limiting the expansion of the intumescent member toward or into the second working environment. Another aspect of the present invention provides a poke-through assembly including an upper frame, at least one intumescent member and an intumescent cover. The intumescent member is disposed below the upper frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Robert K. Jolly
  • Patent number: 7674974
    Abstract: A plurality of siding flange implementations comprising weatherproof siding flanges combined with an electrical wall box or a while-in-use electrical cover. The siding flange may be integrally formed with the electrical wall box or removably coupled to the electrical wall box, for example, on an inside surface of the box. The siding flange may comprise weight reducing pockets separated by strengthening ribs. The siding flange may also comprise a lip extending forward of the siding flange and having one or more grooves therein. The grooves may allow portions of the lip to be removed to adapt to varying siding material thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Michael J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 7667137
    Abstract: A bracket for mounting an electrical outlet box on studs. A longitudinal strip is provided with a first end and a second end. The strip has a first double 90° bend offset which is located a first predetermined distance from the first end. A second double 90° bend is offset a second predetermined distance from the second end of the strip. A bendable planar sheet extends from the longitudinal strip and has a main body and a protrusion formed at its distal end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Donald Beckman
  • Patent number: 7667145
    Abstract: The present invention provides an outlet box assembly including an outlet box having a bottom wall bounded by an outwardly extending perimeter wall forming a housing for receiving a first receptacle. An attachment structure is disposed in the housing for securing the first receptacle to the outlet box. The perimeter wall includes a first portion extending from the bottom wall and a second portion extending at an oblique angle from the first portion. The second wall portion includes an opening for supporting a second receptacle. The assembly includes a cover movable between open and closed positions and between retracted and un-retracted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Belts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Cong Thanh Dinh, Robert K. Jolly
  • Patent number: 7659479
    Abstract: A tool for installing various configurations of electrical boxes to framing studs during building construction includes a staff having graduations indicating distances from an end of the staff. A mounting fixture is slidably disposed on the staff and can be secured at a desired position along the length of the staff corresponding to a desired installation height for the electrical boxes. The mounting fixture may include pins for engaging apertures on an electrical box, and magnets for magnetically engaging metal electrical boxes, to help retain the electrical boxes on the mounting fixture during installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Robert Murphy
  • Patent number: 7659477
    Abstract: A mounting bracket is provided for supporting an electrical box to a support structure. The mounting bracket includes a mounting base for coupling to the electrical box, and a body member extending perpendicular to the mounting base and extending against the back wall of the electrical box. The body member includes a support member and extension member that can be folded outwardly from the back wall of the electrical box to contact an opposing wall and support the electrical box. In another embodiment, the mounting bracket includes a front plate with a central opening for receiving an electrical box and a pair of extension members that extend in a rearward direction with respect to the electrical box. The support members can include an extension member that can be folded outwardly to contact an opposing wall surface to support the electrical box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Krzysztof W. Korcz, Steven J. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100025066
    Abstract: This invention pertains to an adjustable cover for an electrical outlet box. The cover is configured having a generally planar mounting plate with a collar surrounding an opening. The mounting plate including various apertures to allow for mounting to various sized boxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Ian Rubin de la Borbolla
  • Patent number: 7645937
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring box assembly that includes an inner wall box including a peripheral inner wall bounded and enclosed by a rear wall and open at a front end of the inner wall box to form an inner volume. The inner wall box also includes an inner wall flange extending in a substantially perpendicular direction from an exterior surface of the peripheral inner wall at predetermined distance from the front inner wall box end. The inner wall flange includes a plurality of apertures formed therein. The inner wall box further includes a plurality of device mounting bosses extending in a substantially perpendicular direction from an interior surface of the rear wall. An intermediate box includes a peripheral intermediate wall portion configured to fit within the inner volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventor: Vikramsinh P. Bhosale
  • Patent number: 7645936
    Abstract: This invention pertains to an adjustable cover for an electrical outlet box. The cover is configured having a generally planar mounting plate with a collar surrounding an opening through this mounting plate. An extension sleeve moves within this opening and adjacent the collar. At least one fastener is located adjacent the opening and is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The fastener operates a locking device that engages a wedge against the extension sleeve when the fastener is in the locked position and disengages a wedge against the extension sleeve when the fastener is in the unlocked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Joey D. Magno, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7638710
    Abstract: An outlet attachment system for efficiently securing an electrical plug to an outlet. The outlet attachment system generally includes an inner support structure including at least one channel and at least one stopper member, wherein the channel(s) extends through the inner support structure. The channel(s) includes a front portion and a rear portion, wherein the front portion extends from the rear portion. The stopper member(s) extends partially within the channel(s) between the front portion and the rear portion. The inner support structure is secured adjacent an outlet(s), wherein the rear portion of the channel(s) aligns with the outlet(s). An outer support structure may also be utilized to secure the present invention adjacent the outlet, wherein the inner support structure is secured within the outer support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Alan D. Vance
  • Patent number: 7637385
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrical box extension that includes an extending member for switch and/or plug mounting having one or more fastening brackets, one or more base fastening brackets and one or more fasteners that together with optional contact points provide for mechanical and electrical connectivity between the extending member and its associated electrical box and provide sufficient mechanical resistance to support the adjustable elevation of the elevating member thereby supporting a flush surface for surface mounted sockets, switches and their associated plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventors: Wesley Gene Wegner, Paul Brett Wegner
  • Patent number: 7626120
    Abstract: A pop-up power and communication outlet apparatus having a hollow leg structure having an interior, a top end having an opening in communication with the interior of the hollow leg structure, and a bottom end. The apparatus also has a power and communication outlet structure that has a sleeve structure disposed within and attached to the hollow leg structure, and an outlet center movably disposed within the sleeve structure such that the outlet center can move vertically with respect to the sleeve structure. The outlet center has at least one power outlet or at least one communication outlet. In a preferred embodiment, the outlet center has a plurality of power outlets and a plurality of communication outlets. A lift mechanism is located within the sleeve structure and is connected between the sleeve structure and the outlet center. The lift mechanism urges the outlet center upward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Premier Manufacturing Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Kimberly Golden, Dave Black, Glenn Golden, Russell Hayden, Jillian Pai, Sean Scott
  • Patent number: 7622672
    Abstract: A electrical housing knockout device (4) having a bracket (5) with a horizontal side (7) perpendicularly secured to a vertical side (6) and a sleeve element (8) connected to the horizontal side (7). The sleeve element (8) includes a shaft (9) and a base (10) wherein a central opening (12) extends through the shaft (9) and base (10). The sleeve element (8) also includes a collar (11)located between the shaft (9) and base (10) wherein the collar (11) has an aperture (14). The sleeve element (8) extends from the collar (11) at a predetermined angle. The collar (11) is adjacent to the horizontal side (7) and is positioned such that the collar aperture (14) is pivotal about a stopper (15) which extends from the horizontal side (7). A means for securing the bracket (5) to the interior of a junction box (1) or circuit breaker box (26) is also included.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventor: Richard A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7605330
    Abstract: A retractable power and communication outlet apparatus for use with an article having a work surface. The apparatus has a power and communication outlet structure that is sized to fit into an opening in the work surface of the article. The outlet structure includes a shell having a perimeter, a top end and a bottom end. At least one power outlet and/or communication outlet is connected to the shell. A bottom plate member is attached to the bottom end of the shell and has portions thereof that extend beyond the perimeter of the shell. The bottom plate member has a top side and a bottom side. The apparatus also has a slide apparatus that has a stationary rail member and a movable member that slides upon the rail member. The movable member is attached to the bottom plate member so that the power and communication outlet structure can move between a retracted position and an extended position. The apparatus includes a mounting plate for attachment to the bottom of the work surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Assignee: Premier Manufacturing Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Dave Black, Kimberly Golden, Glenn Golden, Russell Hayden
  • Patent number: 7595447
    Abstract: In a dual-sided mounting bracket for electrical junction boxes, wherein the mounting bracket comprises first and second stud coupling members and first and second junction box receiving members adjacent the respective stud coupling members, and an offset portion interposed between the first and second junction box receiving sections, and wherein each junction box receiving section has two expansive sides and two lengthwise extending edges and is adapted for mounting an electrical junction box or electrical junction boxes to a given one of the expansive sides of such junction box receiving section, each junction box receiving section has two flanges, each extending along a given one of the lengthwise extending edges of such junction box receiving section and projecting from the other one of the expansive sides of such junction box receiving section, so as to project away from an electrical junction box or electrical junction boxes mounted to the given one of the expansive sides of such junction box receiving s
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Peter A. Vrame
  • Patent number: 7595448
    Abstract: A deep truncated cylindrical electrical box with angled molded-in internal mounting brackets on the flat side surface is mounted to the side of a wooden or metal beam. This internal mounting feature is especially of interest in old work to minimize the size of drywall cutout by limiting it to the outer contour of the electrical box. Any device, such as a paddle fan, will be directly supported by an exterior supportive L-bracket, not by the molded box itself. Replacing the L-bracket with a heavy-duty cold rolled steel bar bracket permits fastening between two beams. An alternate embodiment for the electrical box itself supports lighter loads by the electrical box itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Inventor: Greg Herth
  • Patent number: 7592542
    Abstract: A support bracket article for enabling the adjustable positioning of an electrical box enclosure relative to the bottom of a framing member, and the supporting thereof in an interior wall section of a wall system under construction. The article is able to guide the adjustable positioning of the electrical box enclosure. It is also able to accommodate the supporting and adjustable positioning of the electrical box enclosure in a variety of framing studs and wall systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Fabworks, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph R. Gerardo
  • Patent number: 7586039
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly for mounting an electrical device or fixture on a wall. The electrical box assembly includes a box having a back wall and a sidewall defining an enclosure, and flanges and bosses extending outward from the sidewall. Teeth are provided along the outer sidewall of the box in alignment with and extending from each boss to the back wall. An elongated bracket with resilient legs is adjustably connected to the back wall of the box. After a hole is made in the drywall, the teeth rip a path for the bosses as the electrical box assembly is pushed into the hole. An adjustment arrangement including fasteners is provided for adjusting the distance of the bracket with respect to the box and securing the box to the wall. The clamping action of the bracket legs and flange on the drywall hold the electrical box assembly secure to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7582827
    Abstract: An adjustable electrical box assembly for providing electrical service on a brick or stone wall. The assembly includes a base member, anchoring members, and an electrical box. The base member includes sidewalls with a plurality of outward extending tabs and a top wall with a forward extending lip. The anchoring members are substantially L-shaped with a first leg for anchoring against the substrate of a structure and a second leg for securing to the sidewalls of the base member. The electrical box assembly enables easy mounting and leveling of an electrical fixture either flush with or at some predetermined offset from a brick or stone wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7569771
    Abstract: An electrical receptacle and junction box apparatus including a stud mounted electrical junction box with stud-attaching screw shoulders having wire apertures with retaining screws and retaining screw fittings for each wire aperture for receiving electrical wiring without wrapping the wiring around screws, a ground strip, a slide-in receptacle or slide-in switch received in the electrical junction box, an electrical connection between the electrical junction box and the slide-in receptacle or slide-in switch unit with elongated prongs, slotted terminals with slot apertures to allow the slide-in receptacle or slide-in switch to move in and out of the electrical junction box and non-conductive bases for embedding the terminals, the ground strip and the retaining screw fittings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Inventor: Andrew Nicholson
  • Publication number: 20090183891
    Abstract: An adjustable electrical junction box with an adjustable sleeve that can be slidably mounted onto the junction box. The sleeve is attached to the junction box by four screws that connect to tapped openings on the junction box to allow the screws to rotate freely. The screws are also connected to the sleeve through threaded tabs that allow the sleeve to slide along the screws as the screws are adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Wayne A. Kramer, JR.
  • Patent number: 7563978
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box for accommodating an electrical fixture which includes a generally rectangular box having a back wall, a perimetrical side wall surrounding said back wall defining an open front face and a box interior, said side wall includes a first and second set of generally parallel spaced apart wall portions; and a slidable extension nested within said generally rectangular box, that can be moved from within the generally rectangular box to an extended position beyond the open front face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Ioan Liviu Lupsa
  • Patent number: 7554034
    Abstract: A weatherproof power inlet box and mating plug wherein the inlet box and mating plug are asymmetrical, positively latched and include more robust elements and a visual indicator of the status of the interconnect. Also included is a thermostat that trips to prevent overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventor: Kenneth Smith
  • Patent number: 7554037
    Abstract: A telescoping in-use cover plate that includes at least two inter-fitting members that enable the cover to be retracted to the wall when not in use and expanded to increase the depth of the outlet cover and allow a plug to be plugged into the outlet when the cover is closed. Specific implementations allow for vertical and horizontal mounting and installation, knockouts and/or adapter plates for conversion to alternate electrical configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Lincoln Jolley, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 7544889
    Abstract: An adjustable outlet box assembly provides for attachment of an outlet box to a wall stud. The assembly includes an outlet box and a box bracket which is adjustably positioned to the outlet box. The box includes a flange which attaches to a linear set of teeth on the box bracket for resilient engagement with the side wall of the box. The bracket includes a stud attachment portion got engagement with the stud. The bracket is adjustably positioned on the box so that the box may be positioned with respect to the wall stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2009
    Inventor: Angel Castillo Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7541540
    Abstract: A telescoping in-use cover assembly or box adapter that includes at least two inter-fitting members that enable the cover to be retracted to the wall when not in use and expanded to increase the depth of the outlet cover and allow a plug to be plugged into the outlet when the cover is disclosed. Specific implementations allow for vertical and horizontal mounting and installation, knockouts and/or adapter plates for conversion to alternate electrical configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby
  • Patent number: 7531743
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly includes an adjustable electrical box cover. The cover includes a base having a central opening and a collar encircling the central opening. A sleeve slides through the collar and is adjusted by a plurality of adjustment screws. In one embodiment, the adjustment screws are positioned within the sleeve and the collar. The sleeve and collar have inwardly extending tabs to receive the adjustment screws allow adjustment of the sleeve with respect to the collar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven J. Johnson, Krzysztof W. Korcz
  • Patent number: 7528322
    Abstract: An adjustable electrical box assembly for providing electrical service on a brick or stone wall. The assembly includes a flange member, box member, and a faceplate. The flange member includes a flange and a forward extending collar. The electrical box includes sidewalls that are telescopically received in the collar of the flange member and a fastening arrangement for securing the electrical box to the flange member. After installing an electrical fixture within the electrical box, a faceplate is secured to the front of the box member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7525806
    Abstract: A combination current sensor and relay has an improved housing. In one aspect, the housing includes light emitting diodes on an upper surface that indicate open circuit and short circuit conditions. In another aspect, the housing includes a securement structure for a circuit board that includes the transformer and switches for device operation, together with aligned openings therein for routing wires to external devices. In another aspect, a multiple position switch is included on the upper surface that indicates multiple modes of operation of the device. In another aspect, the housing may be assembled in multiple parts by affixing a first portion to a support, a circuit board to the first portion, and a second portion to the first portion. In another aspect, the housing is suitable for engagement to alternatively a junction box and a duplex box. In another aspect, the configuration of the upper surface provides usability advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2009
    Assignee: Veris Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Kent Holce, Frank Morey, Matt Rupert, Mark Bowman
  • Patent number: 7518061
    Abstract: A recessed electrical box with a closeable cover member and at least one outward extending flange. The flange serves as a positioning arrangement to recess the electrical box at the correct depth with respect to the surface in which it will be mounted. The recessed electrical box is comprised of two pieces, including a one-piece electrical box and a one-piece cover member. An inner flange may be included for positioning the recessed electrical box with respect to the outer surface of the substrate on an unfinished building. The inner flange is removable to facilitate installation on a finished building, in which the finish layer such as siding or stucco is installed. The recessed electrical box may include a second, outer flange, for recessing the box at the correct depth with respect to a wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7518059
    Abstract: A deep truncated cylindrical electrical box with angled molded-in internal mounting brackets on the flat side surface is mounted to the side of a wooden or metal beam. This internal mounting feature is especially of interest in old work to minimize the size of drywall cutout by limiting it to the outer contour of the electrical box. Any device, such as a paddle fan, will be directly supported by an exterior supportive L-bracket, not by the molded box itself. Replacing the L-bracket with a heavy-duty cold rolled steel bar bracket permits fastening between two beams. An alternate embodiment for the electrical box itself supports lighter loads by the electrical box itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Greg Herth
  • Patent number: 7511219
    Abstract: An expandable while-in-use cover includes: a cap having a pair of cap side walls, a first cap end wall, a second cap end wall and a top wall, which define a cap opening and a cap interior; a base having a pair of base side walls, a first base end wall, a second base end wall and a back wall, which define a base opening and a base exterior, wherein the base side walls and base end walls correspond to the cap side walls and cap end walls and wherein the cover is adapted to slidably and/or telescopically receive the base; a first and second prong on the interior of each of the cap side walls near the first and second cap end walls; a first and second slotted track on the exterior of each of the base side walls near the base end walls, wherein the first slotted track of each base side wall is adapted to receive the first prong of each cap side wall and the second slotted track of each base side wall is adapted to receive the second prong of each cap side wall; and an aperture in the back wall for accessing an ele
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Cong Thanh Dinh, Claude James Bauer
  • Publication number: 20090071680
    Abstract: A receptacle-receiver unit is provided for an electrical system, such as a lighting system. The unit includes a receptacle having a plurality of female slots and a plurality of male ends, wherein the female slots are configured to receive a plug of the lighting system. The unit also includes a receiver wired to a power supply and the receiver has plurality of female slots configured to receive male ends of the receptacle. The female slots of the receiver and the male ends of the receptacle are engaged without wiring process to deliver electric flow to the lighting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2007
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventors: Rhonda Lee Ailer, Arnold Everett Ailer, JR., Matthew Ryan Ailer, Christopher Ray Lee Ailer
  • Patent number: 7504581
    Abstract: A network cabinet is provided comprising a support frame and a threshold associated with the support flame. A door comprising first and second lateral sides is mounted to the support frame through a hinge pin. The hinge pin is moveable between retracted and extended positions and is positioned closer to the first lateral side of the door than the second lateral side. A bearing surface is also associated with the support frame and is aligned with the hinge pin such that the door is elevated relative to the threshold with the hinge pin in the extended position and in contact with the bearing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Samuel J. Adducci, Michael J. McGrath, Richard C. Van Byssum, Jonathan D. Walker, Brendan F. Doorhy
  • Publication number: 20090014196
    Abstract: An outlet box assembly for installation within a wood, tile or carpeted floor, or any other type of flooring, includes a housing for accommodating an electrical power and/or data receptacle as well as the wiring connected to the receptacle and an adjustment mechanism attached to an outer surface of the housing for adjusting the receptacle downwardly to a recessed position a predetermined distance below the flooring material. The adjustment mechanism further includes an attachment mechanism for attaching the outlet box assembly to either the top or side surface of the floor. A cover plate is provided with a tapered recessed box and an access door for easy access to the recessed receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: David M. Peck
  • Publication number: 20090008121
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box for accommodating an electrical fixture which includes a generally rectangular box having a back wall, a perimetrical side wall surrounding said back wall defining an open front face and a box interior, said side wall includes a first and second set of generally parallel spaced apart wall portions; and a slidable extension nested within said generally rectangular box, that can be moved from within the generally rectangular box to an extended position beyond the open front face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Ioan Liviu Lupsa
  • Patent number: 7468486
    Abstract: The Adjustable Mud ring consists of a collarless frame, having a central opening for an Extending Member, perimeter fastener openings for connecting to a junction box, and bendable tabs for securing the frame to an Extending Member, which is boxed shaped with a central opening for electrical apparatus, fixed tabs with openings for threading adjustable fasteners into openings in the frame, and bendable tabs for securing the system to a wall. A Grounding Spring Clip, constructed from sheet-metal, folded to create a compressive spring, with an opening for a fastener, allows proper grounding. Add-on Rings are boxed shaped with a central opening, openings on flat, fixed perimeter tabs for threading bolts into to an Extending Member, and bendable tabs for securing the system to a wall. A bracket, with openings for fasteners for attaching the assembly to wall members, can be made a part of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Frank Shaochong Yan
  • Patent number: 7459631
    Abstract: Provided is a structure for housing an electrical junction box in a housing box by inserting the electrical junction box into the housing box from above and also for fixing the electrical junction box to the housing box so as to prevent slipping-off thereof by engagement between engagement parts provided on external side surfaces of the electrical junction box and engagement parts provided on internal side surfaces of the housing box, both of which face each other in parallel with an insertion direction in insertion of the electrical junction box. Moreover, groove-like depressions extended along the insertion direction into the housing box are provided in the external side surfaces of the electrical junction box, and engagement convex parts are provided in the depressions. Furthermore, engagement projections engaged with the engagement convex parts are provided on the internal side surfaces of the housing box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Nakayama, Masahiro Kanamaru
  • Patent number: 7449633
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box for accommodating an electrical fixture includes a generally rectangular box having a back wall, a perimetrical side wall surrounding said back wall defining an open front face and a box interior, said side wall includes of a first and second set of generally parallel spaced apart wall portions; and a slidable extension nested within said generally rectangular box, that can be moved from within the generally rectangular box to an extended position beyond the open front face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Ioan Liviu Lupsa
  • Patent number: 7442873
    Abstract: An improved enclosure for electrical components is provided. The enclosure protects components from the environment. The enclosure may rest on a surface and to move it from one location to another the enclosure may be rotated 90° and can travel on top and bottom side wall portions. There is a recessed portion between the top and bottom side wall portion where electrical connections may be present and do not interfere with movement of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventors: Sean McCormick, Peter Herrmann, William Froehlich
  • Patent number: 7439443
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for an electrical box that includes: a base plate having substantially planar top and bottom surfaces, a first side, a second side, a first end, a second end, a plurality of mounting screw apertures and an opening for receiving an electrical box; a first flange and a second flange connected to the first and second sides, respectively, of the base plate by a first flange neck and a second flange neck, wherein each flange has a top and a bottom flange surface, wherein the flange necks extend from the top surface of the base plate; a wall connected to the first end having a substantially flat outer wall surface and a pair of opposing ends, wherein the wall extends from the bottom surface of the base plate; and a tab connected to each opposing end of the wall, wherein the tabs are substantially perpendicular to the outer surface of the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
  • Patent number: 7432442
    Abstract: A surface mount power outlet for connecting to a plug includes a cover having a fin disposed on an outer surface and a substantially circular face with a plurality of slots for receiving a plug. The cover also has a substantially arcuate body disposed below the face, an open back, and a pocket on an inner surface adjacent the fin. A base having a base plate with a shape corresponding to the open back includes a tab protruding from the upper surface for matching up with the pocket when aligned with the fin to complete a rock and lock attachment. The configuration of the cover apertures dictates whether the power outlet accommodates a 30 amp or a 50 amp power receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: David M. Peck
  • Patent number: 7427714
    Abstract: A conduit junction box replacement cover for electrical conduit junction boxes. The replacement cover can replace a conventionally designed cover on a conduit junction box that contains corroded or otherwise damaged threaded holes rendering the installation of a conventionally designed junction box cover difficult or costly. The removable replacement cover has a flat inside surface and a rim that overlaps the outer walls of the body of the junction box. The removable replacement cover can be installed by inserting set screws through the rim to make secure contact with the body of the junction box. A flat gasket on the inside surface of the replacement cover and positioned within the rim seals the junction box from adverse environmental conditions. The rim of the replacement cover can contain several cut-outs to permit the installation of the replacement cover on conduit junction boxes that contain one or more external hubs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2008
    Inventors: Albert James Lammens, Jr., Randy Lamar Marx
  • Patent number: 7425678
    Abstract: A network cabinet is provided comprising a door comprising first and second opposing lateral sides. A hinge lever is rotatably connected to the door and a retractable hinge pin is connected to the hinge lever and is positioned closer to the first lateral side of the door than the second lateral side. A lever stop is also connected to the door and is associated with the hinge lever. The lever stop prevents retraction of the hinge pin from an extended position with the second lateral side of the door in an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Samuel J Adducci, Jonathan D Walker, Brendan F Doorhy
  • Patent number: 7423215
    Abstract: A device (100) for receiving electrical components and wiring and adapted for mounting between adjacent studs of a wall structure, the device (100) includes means forming a composite chamber and having a box (100) with parallel, spaced apart right and left side panels (102, 103) for attachment to studs and spaced apart top and bottom panels (104, 105) having ends joined to ends of the right and left panels (102, 103) and arranged so as to form a housing chamber (112) at least partially forming the composite chamber. At least one framework (225) is movable between a first position within the composite chamber and a second position outside the composite chamber, the one framework (225) being shaped and arranged to receive electrical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: GE Security, Inc.
    Inventors: Herman Cardenas, Jens Bolleyer, Jeffrey Wilson, Robert Marvin, Randolph Maxwell, Kevin Patin
  • Publication number: 20080196921
    Abstract: A electrical box assembly is provided that includes an electrical outlet box and an adapter plate configured to accommodate electrical components in a single or double gang formation. An engaging mechanism permits the adapter plate to snap into the electrical outlet box without the use of screws or other fasteners. Thus, the adapter plate can be removed and rotated to change the orientation of the adapter plate and any electrical components attached thereto from a vertical to a horizontal orientation, and vice versa.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
  • Patent number: 7410072
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electrical box extension that includes an extending member for a switch and/or plug mounting having one or more fastening brackets, one or more base fastening brackets and one or more fasteners that together with optional contact points provide for mechanical and electrical connectivity between the extending member and its associated electrical box and provide sufficient mechanical resistance to support the adjustable elevation of the elevating member thereby supporting a flush surface for surface mounted sockets, switches and their associated plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventors: Wesley Gene Wegner, Paul Brett Wegner
  • Patent number: 7396996
    Abstract: A telescoping in-use cover plate that includes at least two inter-fitting members that enable the cover to be retracted to the wall when not in use and expanded to increase the depth of the outlet cover and allow a plug to be plugged into the outlet when the cover is closed. Specific implementations allow for vertical and horizontal mounting and installation, knockouts and/or adapter plates for conversion to alternate electrical configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2008
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Lincoln Jolley, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Publication number: 20080156513
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly includes an adjustable electrical box cover. The cover includes a base having a central opening and a collar encircling the central opening. A sleeve slides through the collar and is adjusted by a plurality of adjustment screws. In one embodiment, the adjustment screws are positioned within the sleeve and the collar. The sleeve and collar have inwardly extending tabs to receive the adjustment screws allow adjustment of the sleeve with respect to the collar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: Steven J. Johnson, Krzysztof W. Korcz
  • Patent number: 7394020
    Abstract: A support bracket article for enabling the adjustable positioning of an electrical box enclosure relative to the bottom of a framing member, and the supporting thereof in an interior wall section of a wall system under construction. The article is able to guide the adjustable positioning of the electrical box enclosure. It is also able to accommodate the supporting and adjustable positioning of the electrical box enclosure in a variety of framing studs and wall systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: Fabworks, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph R. Gerardo