Knockouts Patents (Class 174/666)
  • Patent number: 11834818
    Abstract: A universal drainpipe interfacing with overflow and non-overflow drains having a drainpipe, sink, and drain system. The drainpipe has a closed configuration and an overflow configuration. The drainpipe has a side wall. The side wall has two overflow assemblies, each having a preset channel and a punch-out stamp. If a predetermined amount of force were to be applied, the preset channel and punch-out stamp break away to expose overflow openings in which the sink overflow system can interface with. If the drain were to be installed in a sink without a sink overflow system, the preset channels and punch-out stamps, that are integrated part of the side wall, would not be removed, leaving the side wall sealed. This drain would be able to interface with both overflow and non-overflow drains without the need for additional tools or expertise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2023
    Inventor: Milton Osterneck
  • Patent number: 9614303
    Abstract: Provided is a plug connector housing for protecting a plug connector. The housing has at least one pre-equipped cable outlet for connecting a threaded cable connection and at least one closure for closing the at least one cable outlet. The at least one cable outlet has a thread which forms a screw channel and the plug connector housing has a predetermined breaking point in the transition region to the closure. Also provided is a method for opening a cable outlet of a plug connector housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2017
    Assignee: HARTING ELECTRIC GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Reiner Busse, Andreas Rueter
  • Patent number: 9054511
    Abstract: A knockout can be removed from a parent part in a sheet metal structure by removing one or more twistable tabs located on a perimeter of the knockout. A tab is defined by a region of sheet metal within a perimeter consisting of a first and a second cut. The first and second cuts extend through the sheet metal along first and second paths. A first neck extends between the first end of the first cut and the first end of the second cut and between the tab and the parent part. A second neck extends between the second end of the first cut and the second end of the second cut and extends between the tab and the knockout. To remove the tab, the tab is rotated such that the two necks twist about an axis between them, until torsional fatigue fractures the necks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 9, 2015
    Assignee: Adtran, Inc.
    Inventor: Paul S. Wein, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9029716
    Abstract: A knockout structure for a wall of an electrical box includes a cutout that penetrates through the thickness of the wall to form a knockout on an interior of the cutout along a substantial perimeter of the knockout. The knockout structure also includes a first bridge section interrupting continuity of the cutout and maintaining a connection between the wall and the knockout. The knockout structure further includes a second bridge section interrupting continuity of the cutout and maintaining a connection between the wall and the knockout, the second bridge section being different than the first bridge section and on a same half of the perimeter of the knockout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Ioan-Liviu Lupsa, Andre Goyette, Daniel Lalancette, Marc-Antoine Veillette
  • Patent number: 8933350
    Abstract: A pan box assembly for fixtures for use on exterior walls. The box assembly includes a base unit, which is mounted directly to a flat surface substrate, and two extension elements. The unit, along with the extension elements, allows for modification of certain dimensions of the box assembly so that it can be used with three different finish thicknesses. The extension elements may be added or removed without uninstalling the box or removing the back of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 8816200
    Abstract: A base for an electrical outlet having a front surface and a back surface, at least one opening extending there through, the at least one opening having a size large enough to receive a socket face, at least one mounting screw aperture opening extending through the base, the mounting screw aperture having a first portion sized large enough to receive a mounting screw head, and at least a second portion extending into the first portion and through the base, the second portion sized large enough to allow a mounting screw shaft to extend through the base but small enough to disallow the mounting screw head from passing through the base, at least one keyhole cover removably secured within the first portion, and wherein the base is configured with the second portion of the mounting screw aperture accessible after the base is installed on the electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Marcus Shotey, Sam Dumpe, Jason Thomas, Ryan Liebengood
  • Patent number: 8809701
    Abstract: A connecting device for electrical junction boxes, including a sleeve member that can be inserted in a first hole of a first wall of a first box and in a second hole provided in a second wall of a second box to be joined to the first box. An annular gasket is fitted around the sleeve and is located between the two walls. The sleeve has a first end provided with a plate that is internal to the first box and a second end provided with an abutment means that engages the inner side of the second wall. The insertion of a wedge member, which is applied between the plate and the first wall, gradually moves the plate away from the inner side, pushing the walls against each other and compressing the gasket between them.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Palazzoli S.p.A.
    Inventor: Bruno Levi
  • Patent number: 8592694
    Abstract: In one general embodiment, a product includes a metal panel having a main portion and a knockout portion formed therein and detachably coupled thereto, wherein the knockout portion includes at least one member insertable in one or more apertures in the main portion for allowing re-coupling the knockout portion to the main portion after detachment therefrom. In another general embodiment, a product includes a metal panel having a main portion and a knockout portion formed therein and detachably coupled thereto, wherein the main portion includes at least one member insertable in one or more apertures in the knockout portion for allowing re-coupling the knockout portion to the main portion after detachment therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory Mark Bennett, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Timothy Andreas Meserth, Derek Ian Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20130175086
    Abstract: A knockout structure for a wall of an electrical box includes a cutout that penetrates through the thickness of the wall to form a knockout on an interior of the cutout along a substantial perimeter of the knockout. The knockout structure also includes a first bridge section interrupting continuity of the cutout and maintaining a connection between the wall and the knockout. The knockout structure further includes a second bridge section interrupting continuity of the cutout and maintaining a connection between the wall and the knockout, the second bridge section being different than the first bridge section and on a same half of the perimeter of the knockout.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Publication date: July 11, 2013
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8476541
    Abstract: A junction/outlet box locking insert, system and method including an insert body with an outer insert body surface and an inner axially extending pass through region having an open end and an end with an electrical cable/conduit stop with a central electrical conductor pass through opening. A retainer flange is connected with the insert body at an axial end thereof. An insert stop device cooperates with the retainer flange for fixing a position of the insert body relative to a junction/outlet box. A locking finger arrangement is connected to the insert body and includes a locking finger extending radially inwardly of the outer insert body surface. The locking finger is self-actuating for engaging a conduit or a metallic sheath of an electrical cable upon the conduit or a metallic sheath being inserted into the pass through region up to the electrical cable/conduit stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2013
    Inventor: Kenneth Kiely
  • Patent number: 8410378
    Abstract: A grounding fitting for mounted engagement with an electrical enclosure has an elongated body with a first generally cylindrically shaped section and a hub section. Both sections have a longitudinally extending passageway dimensioned for passage of a ground electrode/ground rod. The first section includes a threaded aperture for receipt of a screw to electrically and mechanically secure a ground electrode/ground rod to the grounding fitting. The hub section is also dimensioned to secure a rigid or EMT conduit thereto. The first section includes a flange at one end with associated threads formed in the outer surface of the first section to mechanically and electrically secure the grounding fitting to an electrical enclosure with a locking ring. An O-ring positioned in the flange provides a fluid resistant barrier relative to the interior of the electrical enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Erik G. Senseney, Lawrence J. Smith
  • Patent number: 8350163
    Abstract: An electrical connector assembly having improved conductivity and continuity. A snap in or push in electrical connector having a zinc body and spring steel components plated with high conductivity metal, such as tin, providing a reduced voltage drop across the attached electrical connector. In an embodiment, a connector assembly has a connector body having opposed end openings provided with an outer surface that slopes downwardly toward the outlet opening. The inlet opening having placed therein cable retainer inserts. A sloping or frustro-conical, snap fit, snap in, or push in outer retaining ring with locking tangs is provided for snap locking the outlet end portion of the connector body to an electrical box or panel. Improved conductivity or continuity is obtained and a good electrical ground is formed between the electrical box and connector assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Bridgeport, Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Delbert Auray, Kenneth M. Kiely, Lawrence J. Smith
  • Publication number: 20120222897
    Abstract: In one general embodiment, a product includes a metal panel having a main portion and a knockout portion formed therein and detachably coupled thereto, wherein the knockout portion includes at least one member insertable in one or more apertures in the main portion for allowing re-coupling the knockout portion to the main portion after detachment therefrom. In another general embodiment, a product includes a metal panel having a main portion and a knockout portion formed therein and detachably coupled thereto, wherein the main portion includes at least one member insertable in one or more apertures in the knockout portion for allowing re-coupling the knockout portion to the main portion after detachment therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Publication date: September 6, 2012
    Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Gregory Mark Bennett, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Timothy Andreas Meserth, Derek Ian Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8253043
    Abstract: A connector assembly having an external retainer ring for both securing a connector body to an outlet box and also securing a conduit or cable from movement relative to the connector assembly. A multi-function retainer ring having a plurality of finger-like extensions or tabs with at least a portion of the extensions being inwardly bent. The inwardly bent tabs engage and retain a captured wire or conduit upon assembly. Other tabs function to engage an inner wall of a knock-out hole of an outlet box upon insertion of the connector assembly into the outlet box. A method of connecting a wire to a junction box using the connector assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth M. Kiely
  • Patent number: 8247709
    Abstract: A product according to one embodiment includes a metal panel having a main portion and a knockout portion formed therein, the knockout portion being coupled to the main portion by at least one web of metal contiguous to both the knockout portion and the main portion, the at least one web allowing detachment of the knockout portion from the main portion, wherein the knockout portion includes at least one member insertable in one or more apertures in the main portion for allowing re-coupling the knockout portion to the main portion after detachment therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gregory Mark Bennett, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Timothy Andreas Meserth, Derek Ian Schmidt
  • Patent number: 8178795
    Abstract: A new and improved method is provided for repairing or retrofitting cable management apparatus used in raised flooring systems constructed to deliver a source of building air, or HVAC, while managing cables passing through an access port constructed in the raised flooring structure without jeopardizing the underfloor plenum air delivery systems. A raised floor grommet assembly provides a grommet locking mechanism defining an assembly retention system that lockingly engages and removeably disengages a first section and a second section of the grommet assembly, and an access port locking mechanism that lockingly engages and removeably disengages an access port constructed in the raised flooring structure. The unique grommet assembly provides an efficient and effective method and apparatus designed for retrofitting cable management systems and accommodates system upgrades, workstation relocation, and HVAC management.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Custom Plastic Distributors, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Roy
  • Patent number: 8143535
    Abstract: An electrical connector assembly having a snap fit adaptor with bent grounding tangs providing improved electrical contact and enhanced grounding. An electrical connector assembly is adapted to snap fit within a knockout hole of an electrical box or panel for making electrical connections. A snap fit adaptor placed on the outlet end of a connector body has a plurality of locking tangs and grounding tangs. The locking tangs hold the connector assembly onto the electrical box, and a distal trailing edge of the grounding tangs extends into the knockout hole in the electrical box and are curved or shaped to provide a large surface area contact improving electrical continuity and providing enhanced electrical grounding. A safer more reliable electrical grounding connecting is made easily and without tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Delbert Auray, Kenneth M. Kiely
  • Patent number: 8129634
    Abstract: In an embodiment, a conduit connector can comprise: a body comprising a box engagement region capable of engaging an opening in an enclosure and a spring configured to engage the connector and the enclosure. The box engagement region can have a root surface, a leading tab, and a follower tab wherein the root surface and leading tab can be located between a leading edge and a secondary edge. A leading tab perimeter edge and a follower tab perimeter edge define a tab perimeter diameter that is larger than an opening in the enclosure. When the leading tab is inserted into the enclosure the spring can be disposed to engage the secondary edge and the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Sigma Electric Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Robert K. Sheehan, Vinayak Manohar Chavan
  • Patent number: 8119933
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to electrical connectors, and more specifically to various types of electrical connectors, including an connector assembly having an integrally formed connector body having opposed end openings provided with an outer surface that slopes downwardly toward the outlet opening. The inlet opening having lips that are crimped retaining cable retainer inserts. A sloping or frustro-conical, snap fit, outer, retaining ring with locking tangs is provided for snap locking the outlet end portion of the connector body to an associated electric box or panel. The frustro-conical retaining ring has grounding tangs engaging the inner periphery of a knock out hole of an electric box or panel for effecting a positive electrical ground therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Délbert Auray, Kenneth M. Kiely, Lawrence J. Smith
  • Publication number: 20110278060
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to electrical insulation barriers. More particularly, the invention encompasses an electrical insulation barrier having knock-out features for an electronic apparatus. The electrical insulation barrier is preferably made from a brittle material, such as, for example, a thermoset insulating material, a glass reinforced polyester laminate material (such as, for example, GPO-1, GPO-2, GPO-3), and the like. The electrical insulation barrier is preferably used to insulate and/or isolate electrical conductors. With this invention a single master or universal type part can be made and used in many configurations and locations dependent on the design of the electronic apparatus. The invention allows for the creation of one or more opening in the electrical insulation barrier by knocking-out or removing one or more pre-defined shapes to allow clearance for intersecting electrical parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Rahul Rajvanshi, Jason Parkerson, Thomas W. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 8026443
    Abstract: An electrical enclosure or housing, such as a power inlet box, is constructed of weather resistant material and has a knockout opening formed in a wall member and a plug that can be removably seated in the knockout opening. The opening and the plug have complimentary geometries and thicknesses which enable the plug to be mounted flush with the exterior and interior wall surfaces of the wall member when seated in the knockout opening. The opening and plug are shaped such that a seated plug is normally removed by applying a blunt force to the plug from within the interior volume of the inlet box, and cannot be removed from the exterior of the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Reliance Controls Corporation
    Inventor: Neil A. Czarnecki
  • Patent number: 7952034
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to electrical connectors that include a connector body having an inlet end opening and an outlet end portion wherein the outlet end portion is provided with an outer surface that slopes downwardly toward the outlet opening and having a complementary sloping or frustro-conical, snap fit, retaining ring with locking tangs and grounding tangs for snap locking the outlet end portion to an electric box or enclosure, and including an embodiment having a cable strap retainer hingedly connected to an associated cable support saddle to render the cable strap retainer readily detachable from the saddle in a manner that prohibits any unintentional detachment of the strap therefrom when rotated between a cable clamping and unclamping position suitable for securing thereto either a non-metallic cable or an armored or metal clad cable, wire conductor and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kiely, Delbert Auray
  • Patent number: 7911800
    Abstract: Electrical apparatus is provided including a housing for containing one or more electrical components therein. The housing has at least one connector means (29) for allowing the connection of at least one electrical cable thereto. Channel means (28) are provided adjacent the connector means for containing at least a part of the electrical cable adjacent a connection end thereof which is to be connected to the connector means on the housing in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Pace, Pic
    Inventor: Mark Andrew Smith
  • Patent number: 7854337
    Abstract: A breakaway closure member for removably covering an opening in a plumbing device, such as a laundry box, pressure test cap, floor drain, shower drain, closet flange, or the like includes a circular disc with a peripheral rim and a hollow nipple extending outwardly from the circular disc. The peripheral rim is connected to the plumbing device by a thin web or area of reduced thickness. The nipple is radially outwardly offset from the center of the disc so as to be generally adjacent or tangent to the peripheral rim. If the nipple is radially compressed, such as by squeezing with a pair of pliers, the peripheral rim is pulled radially inward in an area proximate the nipple, thereby creating a crack in the area of reduced thickness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph P. Ismert, Dominic P. Ismert
  • Publication number: 20100307817
    Abstract: A new and improved method is provided for repairing or retrofitting cable management apparatus used in raised flooring systems constructed to deliver a source of building air, or HVAC, while managing cables passing through an access port constructed in the raised flooring structure without jeopardizing the underfloor plenum air delivery systems. A raised floor grommet assembly provides a grommet locking mechanism defining an assembly retention system that lockingly engages and removeably disengages a first section and a second section of the grommet assembly, and an access port locking mechanism that lockingly engages and removeably disengages an access port constructed in the raised flooring structure. The unique grommet assembly provides an efficient and effective method and apparatus designed for retrofitting cable management systems and accommodates system upgrades, workstation relocation, and HVAC management.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Daniel Roy
  • Patent number: 7826208
    Abstract: A case structure for a computer device is disposed in a cabinet. The case structure includes a case and a stop member. The case has a first slot on a sidewall of the case. The stop member includes a fixing section, a cantilever section, and a stop section. The fixing section is fixed on a side surface of the case. The cantilever section is formed by extending from the fixing section and may be deformed. The stop section is formed by extending from the cantilever section. At least one blocking piece is disposed on a side surface of the stop section. The blocking piece normally passes through the first slot and protrudes on an outer side surface of the case, so that the blocking piece is held against the cabinet. When the cantilever section is deformed, the blocking piece is merged into the first slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventors: Jia-Bin Wang, Shou-Jen Yang
  • Patent number: 7820922
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to electrical connectors, and more specifically to various types of electrical connectors, including an offset nipple connector assembly having an integrally formed connector body having opposed end openings provided with an outer surface that slopes downwardly toward the outlet opening and having a complementary sloping or frustro-conical, snap fit, outer, retaining ring with locking tangs for snap locking the end portion of the connector body to an associated electric box or panel, and grounding tangs engaging the inner periphery of a knock out hole of an electric box or panel for effecting a positive electrical ground therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Delbert Auray, Lawrence J. Smith
  • Patent number: 7812255
    Abstract: A Chicago-style plenum-type electrical junction box provides an air impermeable barrier between a box support structure and a junction enclosure. The junction box includes a base plate and a peripheral wall, the peripheral wall extending from the base plate such that the base plate and peripheral wall define the junction enclosure. The base plate preferably includes a series of fastener knockouts so as to provide an air impermeable barrier. The fastener knockouts are selectively removable for exposing a series of fastener-receiving apertures. The fastener-receiving apertures receive a series of fasteners for sealing the fastener-receiving apertures when fastening the junction box to the box support structure thereby providing an air tight barrier between the box support structure and the junction enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: Barton L. Garvin
  • Publication number: 20100243315
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to panels or enclosures. More particularly, the invention encompasses a removable knockout plate for enclosures. The present invention is also directed to a novel electrical panel or enclosure where at least a portion of at least one removable plate or panel is removably attached to a frame. The removable plate can be removed and can be cut at desired locations to create holes or openings for electrical components. The removable panel or plate can be a blank plate where at least one opening is created, as needed, or the removable panel can have at least one knockout which can be removed from the removable panel or plate, as needed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Publication date: September 30, 2010
    Applicant: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Shumate, Amanda Beaton, Fan Zhang, Brian J. Rusch
  • Publication number: 20100193241
    Abstract: A product according to one embodiment includes a metal panel having a main portion and a knockout portion formed therein, the knockout portion being coupled to the main portion by at least one web of metal contiguous to both the knockout portion and the main portion, the at least one web allowing detachment of the knockout portion from the main portion, wherein the knockout portion includes at least one member insertable in one or more apertures in the main portion for allowing re-coupling the knockout portion to the main portion after detachment therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventors: Gregory Mark Bennett, Daniel Paul Kelaher, Timothy Andreas Meserth, Derek Ian Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7723623
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to electrical connectors, and more specifically to a duplex or multiplex electrical connector having an integrally formed connector body having an inlet end portion defining a plurality of passageways for receiving a cable, and an outlet end portion wherein the outlet end portion is provided with an outer surface that slopes downwardly toward the outlet opening and having a complementary sloping or frustro-conical, snap fit, outer, retaining ring with locking tangs and grounding tangs for snap locking the outlet end portion of the connector to an electric box or panel, and including a unidirectional cable retaining sleeve disposed within each of the inlet bores or passageways which are firmly secured therein in a predetermined oriented position relative to the respective passageway, and having a non-conducting bushing sandwiched between the outlet end opening and the outer frustro-conical retaining ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kiely, Delbert Auray
  • Publication number: 20100084188
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to electrical insulation barriers. More particularly, the invention encompasses an electrical insulation barrier having knock-out features for an electronic apparatus. The electrical insulation barrier is preferably made from a brittle material, such as, for example, a thermoset insulating material, a glass reinforced polyester laminate material (such as, for example, GPO-1, GPO-2, GPO-3), and the like. The electrical insulation barrier is preferably used to insulate and/or isolate electrical conductors. With this invention a single master or universal type part can be made and used in many configurations and locations dependent on the design of the electronic apparatus. The invention allows for the creation of one or more opening in the electrical insulation barrier by knocking-out or removing one or more pre-defined shapes to allow clearance for intersecting electrical parts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2009
    Publication date: April 8, 2010
    Applicant: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Rahul Rajvanshi, Jason Parkerson, Thomas Hawkins
  • Patent number: 7645947
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an electrical connector assembly that includes a connector body having an inlet end portion and an outlet end portion. The outlet end portion is held in a knock out hole of an electric box and the inlet end portion is provided with an adjacent opening for receiving a wire conductor retainer in the form of a flat spring configured to be readily connected to an external portion of a connector body for ease of manufacture and assembly. An electric conductor can be unidirectionally inserted in the inlet end portion and secured thereto so as to prohibit any unintentional separation from the connector body, all without the need of any tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kiely, Delbert Auray
  • Patent number: 7618269
    Abstract: A compliant cap for inserting into an aperture of an electrical connector. The cap includes two halves connected by a living hinge. The two radial members in the two halves each extend perpendicular to the living hinge with the second radial member being longer than the first. One of the halves includes a plurality of chamfers, and the other half includes an outer rim surrounding the chamfers such that when the cap is compressed, the rim envelops the chamfers decreasing the area of the cap. In a second embodiment, chamfers include extensions adjacent to the outer rim for wrapping around or extending over the rim and further enhancing the secure fit of the two halves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Brian A. Naro, Lawrence E. Bradford
  • Patent number: 7575122
    Abstract: A knockout in a sidewall of a plastic electrical box has a slot for receiving a screwdriver tip to apply a knockout force to the knockout. The slot is located adjacent the box bottom wall to minimize deformation of the sidewall by a knockout force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.
    Inventors: Eric G. Hull, Gregory D. Turcovsky, Dennis P. Revlock, Sr.
  • Publication number: 20090178845
    Abstract: An electrical connector assembly having a snap fit adaptor with bent grounding tangs providing improved electrical contact and enhanced grounding. An electrical connector assembly is adapted to snap fit within a knockout hole of an electrical box or panel for making electrical connections. A snap fit adaptor placed on the outlet end of a connector body has a plurality of locking tangs and grounding tangs. The locking tangs hold the connector assembly onto the electrical box, and a distal trailing edge of the grounding tangs extends into the knockout hole in the electrical box and are curved or shaped to provide a large surface area contact improving electrical continuity and providing enhanced electrical grounding. A safer more reliable electrical grounding connecting is made easily and without tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventors: Delbert Auray, Kenneth M. Kiely
  • Publication number: 20090120687
    Abstract: Various embodiments of an electrical connector assembly that includes a connector body having an inlet end portion and an outlet end portion. The outlet end portion is held in a knock out hole of an electric box and the inlet end portion is provided with an adjacent opening for receiving a wire conductor retainer in the form of a flat spring configured to be readily connected to an external portion of a connector body for ease of manufacture and assembly. An electric conductor can be unidirectionally inserted in the inlet end portion and secured thereto so as to prohibit any unintentional separation from the connector body, all without the need of any tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Publication date: May 14, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kiely, Delbert Auray
  • Patent number: 7488905
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to various embodiments of an electrical connector assembly that includes a connector body having an inlet end portion and an outlet end portion. The outlet end portion has an associated locking member whereby it can be readily attached to a knock out hole of an electric box and the inlet end portion is provided with a wire conductor retainer in the form of a flat spring configured to be readily connected to an external portion of a connector body for ease of manufacture and assembly, and which is configured to extend through an opening formed in the inlet end portion whereby an electric conductor can be unidirectionally inserted in the inlet end portion and secured thereto so as to prohibit any unintentional separation from the connector body, all without the need of any extraneous tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kiely, Delbert Auray
  • Patent number: 7390980
    Abstract: A electrical connector for connecting conduit or cables to a junction box. The connector includes a tubular connector body with a longitudinal slot extending substantially along the length of the connector body and dividing the tubular connector body into an upper half and a lower half. A lateral slot extends through the upper half of the connector body at the leading end thereby hinging the upper half to the lower half at the trailing end of the connector. A tubular snap ring including one or more locking tangs is disposed and held thereon on the leading end of the connector body by a spring bias. The trailing body portion includes a threaded aperture and a threaded fastener therein. When inserted into a knockout in a junction box, the leading end of the snap engagement connector is held firmly but adjustably therein by engagement of the locking tangs with the panel, thereby allowing the orientation of the connector with respect to the box to be adjusted as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7358448
    Abstract: An electric connector assembly made up of a connector body having an inlet end portion, an outlet end portion, and a bore communicating the inlet end portion to the outlet end portion; and having a frustro-conical retaining ring mounted on the outlet end portion wherein the retainer ring includes locking tangs and one or more grounding tangs wherein the free end of the grounding tang defines the trailing end of the retainer ring. The locking tangs effect a snap-fit locking arrangement while the grounding tang effects an electrical grounding of the connector assembly, when connected to a knock-out hole of an electric box or panel. Various embodiments are disclosed wherein the grounding tang is formed so as to enhance the electrical grounding effect between the connector assembly and the electric box or panel connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Delbert Auray, Kenneth M. Kiely
  • Patent number: 7355130
    Abstract: A cable sealing device (10) includes a member (14) includes an elastomeric material and adapted to be fitted into a cable receiving aperture. The member includes a first wall (16) and a second wall (18) spaced apart from the first wall to partially define a cavity (20) between the walls. Each wall includes a cable receiving slot (e.g., 22, 24) formed in the wall. Each wall is deformable away from the respective slot to accommodate a respective cable portion (e.g., 26, 28) extended through the slot so that the wall is biased around the cable portion to minimize any opening around the cable portion passing through the slot. The slots in the respective walls cooperate to provide a redundant seal around a cable portion (30) passing through the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Information and Communication Networks, Inc.
    Inventors: Glen Allen Holman, Andrew Filtness, Thomas Herbert Singer
  • Patent number: 7353961
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box molded of plastic material has a knockout arrangement in a box wall that is formed by inner, intermediate and outer circular grooves that are eccentrically positioned to overlap at a tangent location and define inner, intermediate and outer eccentrically positioned circular knockouts. The grooves vary in depth from a minimum depth at the tangent location to a maximum depth opposite from the tangent location. Areas of increased weakness are provided in the box wall at the bottoms of at least the inner and intermediate grooves, and screwdriver slots are provided in the knockouts opposite from the tangent location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.
    Inventors: Eric G. Hull, Gregory D. Turcovsky, Dennis P. Revlock, Sr.
  • Patent number: 7315458
    Abstract: A fixing mechanism for functional extension cards is disclosed, which can be fixed by fixing bolt thereof to the mechanical frame of a computer system having at least a first positioning hole and a second positioning hole, and to a bayonet board of the functional extension card. The fixing mechanism includes a fixing body, a spindle hole, a fixing portion, an operating portion and a first restricting portion. The body is installed on the frame by the fixing bolt to resolve the problems of the functional extension card slanting and loosening from the frame by the restriction effects respectively provided by the first restricting portion and second restricting portion of the body. The present invention is easy to operate and install to enable the functional extension card to be easily assembled into and disassembled from an extension slot of a computer system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Linger Lin
  • Patent number: 7214890
    Abstract: This disclosure is directed to electrical connectors that include a connector body having an inlet end portion and an outlet end portion and a bore extending therethrough, wherein the outlet end portion is provided with an outer surface that slopes downwardly toward the outlet opening and having a complementary sloping or frustro-conical retaining ring having locking tangs and grounding tangs for snap locking the outlet end portion to an electric box or enclosure, and a wire retainer fitted to the inlet end portion for receiving and securing a wire conductor thereto. The connector body may take several forms including a form wherein the inlet opening is angularly disposed relative to the outlet opening, with the inlet opening being formed to be press fitted onto a flexible conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth M. Kiely, Delbert Auray
  • Patent number: 7205489
    Abstract: An electric connector assembly having a connector body defining an inlet end portion and an outlet end portion and having a frustro-conical retainer ring connected to the outlet end portion wherein the retainer ring is formed with locking and grounding tangs arranged to effect a snap-fit locking and grounding connection to a knockout hole of an electric box located in an existing wall and a tool arranged to engage slots formed in the retainer ring to facilitate the pulling of the connector assembly through the knockout hole of an electric box for seating and locking the electric connected thereto, and a method for securing the electrical connector assembly to an electric box installed in a finished wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Bridgeport Fittings, Inc.
    Inventors: Delbert Auray, Kenneth M. Kiely
  • Patent number: 7126064
    Abstract: A connector for affixing cables (e.g., of the type having wires bundled within a corrugated cover) within an electrical or other junction box has a body with a first end into which the cable cover (and the wires therein) may be inserted, and a second end configured to affix to the entry of a junction box, and which is configured to allow the wires of the cable to leave the connector and extend into the junction box. The connector has an engagement member thereon with one or more engagement legs which extend into the body of the connector, and into the internal passage of the connector body into which the cable is fit, to engage the cable cover and fix the cable to the connector body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: Sami Shemtov