Coupling-actuated Switch Patents (Class 200/51.09)
  • Patent number: 9887492
    Abstract: A connector includes a housing having a guide part to which a male terminal is inserted, a connection part exposed on the guide part so as to make contact with a terminal member of the male terminal in a state where the male terminal is inserted, a cover member provided on the guide part so as to cover the connection part, while making contact with the connection part, in a state where the male terminal is not inserted, and a spring configured to urge the cover member toward an opening of the guide part in the state where the male terminal is not inserted. The cover member is moved, upon inserting the male terminal, to a side of the guide part opposite to the opening so as not to cover the connection part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: RICOH COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventor: Hideaki Umehara
  • Patent number: 9853392
    Abstract: A connector guard may include a first member having a planar base element. A planar end element may extend substantially perpendicularly from a first end of the planar base element. An end tab coextensive with the planar base element may protrude from a second end of the planar base element. Two planar side elements may extend substantially perpendicularly from the planar base element of the first member. The connector guard may include a second member having a planar base element. A planar end element may extend substantially perpendicularly from a first end of the planar base element of the second member. An end tab coextensive with the planar base element of the second member may protrude from a second end of the planar base element of the second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: Caterpiller Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Lee Rottman, Justin Matthew Krager, Michael Lee McWilliams
  • Patent number: 9849795
    Abstract: A vehicle connector that is connected through a cable to a vehicle-mounted power switchboard is attached to an attachment bracket secured to a vehicle body. The attachment bracket includes a first bracket having an attachment portion to which the vehicle connector is attached and a second bracket secured to the vehicle body so as to be positioned further to an inside of the vehicle body than the first bracket. The first bracket and the second bracket form a closed cross section. Thus, the attachment bracket having the closed cross section supports a load that is applied when a connector to be mated with the vehicle connector is inserted into or removed from the vehicle connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Kato, Kazuo Sato, Masaki Shoji, Shohei Ohji
  • Patent number: 9830788
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for monitoring Type C USB connector. An alarm module has a first terminal and a second terminal. A male plug has a first conductive member in electrical communication with the first terminal and a second conductive member in electrical communication with the second terminal. When the male plug is positioned within the receptacle, a closed electric circuit forms between the first and second conductive members. The alarm module supplies an electric current to the first terminal and monitors the electric current flowing to the second terminal. Responsive to detecting an interruption in the electric current flowing between the first and the second terminals, the alarm module transmits an alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Assignee: Vanguard Products Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Kelsch, Chung-Ping Lee, John N. Figh, Jr., Lucas P. Swartwood, Bruno M. L. Telles, Ryan G. Bernosky
  • Patent number: 9812824
    Abstract: Disclosed is a stereo audio jack assembly that reduces or eliminates signal loss with an audio plug. The jack assembly employs a support housing having a passageway sized to receive the audio plug with an insulated first connector having first and second terminal strips, each formed integral to a first disk base and positioned to engage the grooved tip of an audio plug when engaged. A second isolated connector includes a terminal strip positioned to engage one side of an audio plug sleeve when engaged. And a third isolated connector includes a terminal strip positioned to engage another side of an audio plug sleeve when engaged to allow for a stereo connection by having distinct contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventor: David Polinski
  • Patent number: 9793641
    Abstract: A plug receptacle is disclosed, comprising a receptacle housing having a passage configured to receive at least a part of a plug of a plug connector, a front side having a first opening and a top side having a second, elongated opening that intersects the first opening, the passage opening to the front side via the first opening and to the top side via the second opening. The plug receptacle also comprises at least one plug receptacle cover that is reversibly extendable between a cover position and an open position. In the cover position, the at least one plug receptacle cover covers the second opening at least partially. In the open position, at least a part of the at least one plug receptacle cover is extended outwards, so that the at least the part of the plug partially extends through the second opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Microsoft Technology Licensing, LLC
    Inventors: Niko Eiden, Ville Vehkaperä
  • Patent number: 9785198
    Abstract: Particular embodiments described herein provide for an electronic device, such as a notebook computer or laptop, that includes a circuit board coupled to a plurality of electronic components (which includes any type of components, elements, circuitry, etc.). The electronic device may also include a hinge assembly to secure a first housing of the electronic device to a second housing. The hinge assembly is to allow for electrical signals to pass between the first housing and the second housing and for a rotation of the first housing in relation to the second housing. The hinge assembly may include a plurality of discs to receive a plurality of segments of the accessory as the hinge assembly engages to secure the first housing to the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Marshall Grinstead, Stephen D. Berry, Gabriel G. Khouri, Tommy S. Montoya, Russell S. Aoki
  • Patent number: 9771036
    Abstract: An electrically conductive path connecting member includes a plurality of conductors and one pair of insulating holding members. The plurality of conductors respectively have bent parts in a longitudinal direction. The one pair of insulating holding members hold both end parts of the conductors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Assignee: YAZAKI CORPORATION
    Inventor: Satoshi Nakai
  • Patent number: 9728892
    Abstract: Disclosed is a housing for an electronic device that includes a rear wall having an interior surface and an exterior surface, a central electrical contact in the rear wall, a first cut-out on the exterior surface of the rear wall exposing a portion of the central electrical contact, a first radial electrical contact in the rear wall, and a second cut-out on the exterior surface of the rear wall exposing a portion of the first radial electrical contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Henge Docks LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Leigh Vroom, Benjamin Edwards Maskell
  • Patent number: 9729956
    Abstract: An electronic device including a housing, at least one first sound output unit, a connecting module and a second sound output unit is provided. The first sound output unit is located inside or outside the housing. The connecting module is disposed on the housing. The connecting module includes a base and a sensing component. The base has a slot. The sensing component is disposed on the base as corresponding to the slot. The second sound output unit at least includes a plug. The plug is detachably assembled to the slot and is adapted to rotate relative to the base along an axis line, so as to determine whether the plug is sensed by the sensing component to make the electronic device switch between a first sound output mode and a second sound output mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventors: Hui Li, Peng-Fei Li
  • Patent number: 9723692
    Abstract: A system for monitoring a trailer hitch assembly includes a first sensor sensing the position of a kingpin of a trailer relative to a throat of a hitch plate, a second sensor sensing a position of the locking mechanism movable between locked and unlocked positions, a control circuit coupled with the first sensor and determining whether the first sensor indicates a proper location of the kingpin relative to the throat and whether the second sensor indicates that the locking mechanism is in the locked position, and a light source proximate the throat of the kingpin and activated when the control circuit determines that the kingpin is properly located and that the locking mechanism is in the locked position, such that the light source illuminates the throat and the kingpin assisting visual inspection of the position of the kingpin relative to the throat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: SAF-HOLLAND, Inc
    Inventors: Richard Sibley, Jr., Michael Ginocchio, Ahmad Nizam Mohamad-Jembari, Andrew L. Wallner
  • Patent number: 9722352
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mounting system for an electronic device includes a first portion associated with an electronic device and a second portion configured to mate with the first portion. The first portion includes a first face formed from an electrically insulating material, a first central electrical contact on the first face, a first plurality of radial electrical contacts on the first face and positioned around the central contact, a first ferromagnetic member. The second portion includes a second face formed from an electrically insulating material, a second central electrical contact on the second face, a first radial electrical contact on the second face, and a first magnetic member. Magnetic attraction between the first magnetic member and the first ferromagnetic member substantially maintains the first and second central electrical contacts in an electrically conductive relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2017
    Assignee: Henge Docks LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Leigh Vroom, Benjamin Edwards Maskell
  • Patent number: 9689538
    Abstract: An electronic candle includes a housing, an LED light source, a battery, and one or more sensors to detect a blow of air or a tilt of the electronic candle. The electronic candle further includes a microprocessor that is coupled to the LED light source, to the blow sensor and to the tilt sensor. The microprocessor is programmed to control illumination produced by the LED light source, to receive signals indicative of the detection of a blow, and to detect a tilt of the electronic candle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: SHENZHEN LIOWN ELECTRONICS COMPANY LTD.
    Inventors: Daniel Hau, Tim Cowley, Shane Vail
  • Patent number: 9673706
    Abstract: The present invention relates to improving the reliability of the control IC of DC/DC converters. The present invention provides a control IC 200 of a rectifier diode-type buck DC/DC converter 100. An N-channel DMOS switch transistor M1 is disposed between an input terminal VCC and a switch terminal LX. A first diode D11 and an N-channel DMOS low-side transistor M2 are connected in series with and disposed between the switch terminal LX and a ground terminal GND.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: ROHM CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takeru Matsuki, Shinya Karasawa
  • Patent number: 9647372
    Abstract: An electrical pin contact is disclosed. The electrical pin contact has a free end, a base spaced apart from the free end and connected to a plug type connector, and an electrically insulating contact protection member extending from the base to the free end. The contact protection member forms an outer face between the base and the free end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2017
    Assignee: TE Connectivity Germany GmbH
    Inventor: Markus Eckel
  • Patent number: 9620886
    Abstract: According to an example embodiment, an electrical connector may include a plug connected to a cord. The cord may be connected to a back of the plug. A width of the plug may narrow from the back of the plug to a front of the plug. The cord may be connected to the back of the plug. The cord may include at least one electrical wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2017
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Randall R. Spangler
  • Patent number: 9608366
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for holding an electronic device that includes an interface surface, a central electrical contact on the interface surface, a first radial electrical contact on the interface surface, a first magnetic member near the first radial electrical contact, and a second magnetic member near the central electrical contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Henge Docks LLC
    Inventors: Matthew Leigh Vroom, Benjamin Edwards Maskell
  • Patent number: 9609415
    Abstract: Headphones that have one or two earphones. A headband carries the earphones such that they are held against the head of a wearer. A coupling member is located between the earphone and the headband, the coupling member pivotably mounted to the headband at a joint having a first axis around which the coupling member pivots, such that the earphone can be moved from a deployed position in which the earphone is positioned to be worn by the wearer to a stowed position in which the earphone is located closer to the headband than it is in the deployed position. A conductive cable runs from the earphone to the headband through the coupling member. The cable is held in place at a first anchor location in the headband, proximate the coupling member. There is slack in the cable between the first anchor location and the coupling member at least when the earphone is in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: Bose Corporation
    Inventor: Tristan Edward Taylor
  • Patent number: 9588594
    Abstract: An electronic device, a method for controlling the electronic device, a recording medium, and an ear-jack terminal cap interworking with the electronic device are provided. The method includes determining whether an ear-jack terminal cap has been inserted into an ear-jack terminal provided in the electronic device, setting at least one function for a button of the ear-jack terminal cap, and performing the set at least one function, upon receipt of an input of the button of the ear-jack terminal cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Seok-Weon Kim
  • Patent number: 9531111
    Abstract: An audio jack connector including: an insulative housing including a mounting face, a receiving space, an insertion opening communicating with the receiving space, and a number of passageways extending from the mounting face along a bottom-to-up direction, a through hole defined in each of the passageways and communicating to the receiving space; a number of contacts retained in corresponding passageways and extending into the receiving space through the through holes; and a sealing assembly assembled on the mounting face, the sealing assembly including a gasket covering on the mounting face for sealing the passageways and a cover assembled with the gasket to press and hold the gasket, the gasket having a number of passing holes exposing a soldering end of each of the contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2016
    Assignee: FOXCONN INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Ding-Cherng Chen, Min-Han Lin
  • Patent number: 9500350
    Abstract: A lighting assembly includes a base assembly configured to fit into a conventional light bulb socket. A separate bulb assembly is configured to interface with the base assembly, making the bulb and base assemblies selectively separable from one another. In some instances, a module configured to be connected to the base assembly provides a convenient means for adding or supplementing functionality to the lighting assembly. At least in some cases, the module is configured to take the place of the bulb assembly on the base assembly, and is configured to provide a separate interface to which the bulb assembly is coupled, such that the module is disposed intermediate the base assembly and the bulb assembly. In some instances, functionality associated with a lighting element of the lighting assembly is included in the base assembly or the bulb assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: NthDegree Technologies Worldwide Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Stephen McGuire, Mark John Steinhardt, Corey Michael Bischoff, Edward Mack Sawicki, Erik John Hasenoehrl
  • Patent number: 9472068
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for monitoring connection between a male plug and a female receptacle. The male plug has a sheath enclosing a plurality of conductive pins. The sheath contains a tongue having a first retracted configuration when the male plug is outside the female receptacle and a second displaced configuration when the male plug is inserted in the female receptacle. In the second displaced configuration, the tongue engages at two conductive pins, thereby creating a closed electric circuit. An alarm module monitors the electric current flow within the electric circuit, and responsive to detecting an interruption in the electric current flow, the alarm module transmits an alarm signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: Vanguard Products Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Kelsch, Chung-Ping Lee, John N. Figh, Jr., Lucas P. Swartwood, Bruno M. L. Telles, Ryan G. Bernosky
  • Patent number: 9450362
    Abstract: A connector structure, being capable of connecting with an external connector, includes a chassis, a first electronic assembly, a flexible connecting piece and a second electronic assembly. The chassis has an opening. The first electronic assembly includes a first pin-set. The flexible connecting piece is located on the surrounding of the first pin-set, and the first electronic assembly is connected with the chassis by the flexible connecting piece, so that first pins are exposed from the opening. The second electronic assembly is located inside the chassis and includes a second pin-set, wherein the second pin-set is located below the first pin-set and keeps a distance from the first pin-set. The external connector is electrically connected with the first pin-set for deforming the flexible connecting piece, such that the first pin-set moves downward and is electrically connected with the second pin-set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2016
    Assignee: GETAC TECHNOLOGY CORPORATION
    Inventor: Chen-Ping Wang
  • Patent number: 9413113
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a power supply connection structure device, a manufacturing method thereof and a circuit connection method. The device, which is used to connect an electrical appliance to a power supply, includes a live wire and neutral wire connection unit and a control unit, the control unit is switched between an activation state and an idle state, when the control unit is in the idle state, the live wire and neutral wire connection unit is not connected to the power supply; and when the control unit is in the activation state, the control unit connects the live wire and neutral wire connection unit to the power supply, thus, by using the control unit, the power supply connection structure device is safe to use, is waterproof and prevents individual from electric shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: Shenzhen Zhongke Electrical Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shifeng Lin
  • Patent number: 9385471
    Abstract: An electrical connector assembly includes a first connector including a first magnetic element and a number of first contacts, and a second connector including a second magnetic element and a number of second contacts. The first magnetic element and the second magnetic element include a pair of opposite poles located at two ends thereof respectively along a direction perpendicular to a mating direction of the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element. When the first connector mates with the second connector, the poles of the corresponding ends of the first magnetic and the second magnetic element are opposite.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2016
    Assignee: FOXCONN INTERCONNECT TECHNOLOGY LIMITED
    Inventors: Jian-Jun Zhu, Qing-Man Zhu, Jerry Wu
  • Patent number: 9321363
    Abstract: An external charging structure for an electric vehicle is provided with a normal charging port to be connected with a charging gun, and a charging port lid that closes when charging is not occurring to cover an opening of a port chamber where the normal charging port is disposed and opens when charging is occurring to ensure an open space allowing a port connection with the charging gun. In the external charging structure of the electric vehicle, the charging gun has a locking part for holding a port coupling in a position of electrical connection, and an unlocking operation part placed projecting from a surface of the gun and used for unlocking by a push operation. A first-striking part is disposed on a rear surface of the charging port lid, the first-striking part coming in contact with a location other than the unlocking operation part ahead of where contact would be made with the unlocking operation part when the charging port lid is closed toward the charging gun during charging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Junichi Yamamaru, Kyouhei Kawasaki
  • Patent number: 9266244
    Abstract: An industrial robot including a contact panel having one or several contacts to allow connection to the industrial robot of one or several cables through which energy, signals or a substance may pass to and/or from the industrial robot. A cover forms part of an outer surface of the industrial robot. Each one of the one or several contacts of the contact panel protrudes through an opening in the cover so as to be accessible from the outside of the industrial robot. The contact panel is mounted to and supported by a holder that is secured in an internal cavity of the industrial robot so as to allow the contact panel to be held in place in the industrial robot when the cover is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: ABB AB
    Inventors: Jan Larsson, Karl-Gunnar Johnsson, Mats Olsson, Bo Toresson, Stig Persson, Tommi Paananen
  • Patent number: 9239633
    Abstract: An integrated port for connecting a device with an accessory having a plug is provided. An opening in the device may provide access to a recess of the port for receiving one or more connectors of the plug. The recess may include one or more terminals for electrically coupling with one or more connectors of the plug in a first mode of operation. The recess may also include a switch, which may be activated to change the operational state of the device from the first mode of operation into a second mode of operation that is not intended for general use. The switch may be provided such that insertion of the plug into the recess via the opening electrically couples the one or more terminals of the port with the one or more connectors of the plug without activating the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2016
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth Ryan Loo, Leng Ooi
  • Patent number: 9225126
    Abstract: An apparatus for electrically connecting a power source to an electrical device is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a first component and a second component. The first component has a substantially planar contoured first face comprising a ferromagnetic plate, a first set of contacts electrically connectable to a power source, two power switches and a magnetically actuated sensor controlling the switches. The second component has a substantially planar contoured second face complementary to the first face comprising a magnet and a second set of electrically conductive contacts electrically connectable to a device. Connecting the first and second faces, results in the first and second pair of contacts electrically coupling and establishes an electrical path between the power source and the device, and connects the components by magnetic attractive force which actuates the power switches and initiates power to the device. The apparatus further comprises a safety circuit for preventing electric shock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: Magno Plug Products Inc.
    Inventors: Arash Janfada, William Topping
  • Patent number: 9190782
    Abstract: An AC cord/plug is “dead” while disconnected and goes “live” only when connected. The plug has a set of spring-loaded, normally-open contacts, each having two sets of fixed contacts and a single set of movable contacts. The movable contacts are in a spring-loaded assembly that has an iron core opposite the contacts, and the fixed contacts are in a hermetically sealed compartment shielding them from the plug's exterior. The AC plug inputs (L1, L2) are connected to one set of the normally open, fixed contacts, and the plug's socket terminals are connected to the other set of normally opened, fixed contacts. In the unplugged state, the plug's socket contacts are electrically isolated from the L1 and L2 inputs. When plugged-in, the plug's socket terminals go “live” when a magnetic circuit closes between the plug and socket that causes the plug's spring-loaded assembly to move to close the contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2015
    Assignee: Club Car, LLC
    Inventors: Russell W. King, Dave Neal Schult
  • Patent number: 9130317
    Abstract: A connector assembly includes a first connector and a second connector. The first connector is coupled to a first electronic device, and the second connector is coupled to a second electronic device and detachably mated with the first connector. The first connector includes a first housing and a magnetic member. The magnetic member is installed inside the first housing and for generating magnetic field. The second connector includes a second housing and a magnetic sensor disposed in the second housing. The magnetic sensor senses the magnetic field generated by the magnetic member when the second connector is mated with the first connector, so as to drive the second electronic device to power the first electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: C.C.P. Contact Probes Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsin-Chieh Wang, Wei-Chu Chen, Yuan-Hsiang Shen, Hsiao-Wei Liu, Yu-Min Cheng, Yen-Ching Su, Huei-Che Yu, Bor-Chen Tsai
  • Patent number: 9093774
    Abstract: An electrical adapter for identifying the connection state to a network is presented. The adapter comprises a first member and a second member. The first member comprises a male end that is substantially similar in shape to a connector plug, and which electrically connects to a wall outlet or a female receptacle. A first female end is disposed at another end of the first member, which includes a hollow cylinder member and a display window. The second member comprises a second female end which comprises a push latch and a mark for identifying a connection state to a network. When the second member is pushed forward, the second female end is engaged with the first female end via the push latch, and a display window displays the mark that identifies the electrical adapter's connection state to the network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Chun-Fei Chang, Tzuching Kuo, Tien-Shun Wang, Lingwen Yeh
  • Patent number: 9064624
    Abstract: A controlling device includes a controlling device main unit and a terminal block attached removably to the controlling device main unit. The terminal block is provided with first through Nth (N?2) permanent magnet placement portions. The controlling device main unit includes first through Nth magnetism detecting portions that, in a state wherein the terminal block is attached, are positioned in positions in proximity to the first through Nth permanent magnet placement portions, to detect the respective magnetism of the permanent magnets that are placed selectively in the placement portions. The controlling device further includes a terminal block type identifying portion that identifies a type of terminal block attached to the controlling device main unit based on detection signals, indicating whether or not there is magnetism, from the first through Nth magnetism detecting portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2015
    Assignee: Azbil Corporation
    Inventor: Takanori Aoki
  • Publication number: 20150075953
    Abstract: A switch connector includes an insulative base, a fixed terminal, a movable terminal inserted molded with the insulative base, an insulative body assembled with the insulative base, and a shielding shell enclosing the insulative body. The fixed terminal has a block portion and the movable terminal has an elastic arm, the block portion elastically contacts the elastic arm. The insulative base includes a first insulator having a terminal receiving passageway and a second insulator. The fixed terminal is inserted molded in the first insulator, the movable terminal is received in the terminal receiving passageway, and the second insulator over-molds the movable terminal and the first insulator. A method of making a switch connector includes: insert molding a fixed terminal with a first insulator; disposing a movable terminal in the first insulator; over-molding a second insulator on the moveable terminal and the first insulator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Inventor: MING-CHING CHEN
  • Patent number: 8944338
    Abstract: A thermostat is configured for automated compatibility with HVAC systems that are either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The compatibility is automated in that a manual jumper installation is not required for adaptation to either single-HVAC-transformer systems or dual-HVAC-transformer systems. The thermostat has a plurality of HVAC wire connectors including a first call relay wire connector, a first power return wire connector, a second call relay wire connector, and a second power return wire connector. The thermostat is configured such that if the first and second external wires have been inserted into the first and second power return wire connectors, respectively, then the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically isolated from each other. Otherwise, the first and second power return wire connectors are electrically shorted together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Adam Warren, Hugo Fiennes, Jonathan Alan Dutra, David Bell, Anthony Michael Fadell, Matthew Lee Rogers
  • Publication number: 20150027863
    Abstract: An electric arc eliminating apparatus includes a switch member, an interface, a power supply circuit and a connector. The switch member includes a contacting unit and a triggering unit. The power supply circuit is electrically coupled to the interface via the contacting unit. When the connector is inserted into the interface but does not completely connect with the interface, the contacting unit is in an open state, and the power supply circuit cannot output electrical power to the connector via the interface. When the connector is inserted into the interface and completely connected with the interface, the connector resists against the triggering unit and moves the triggering unit toward the contacting unit, the contacting unit is in a closed state, and the power supply circuit provides electrical power to the connector via the interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2014
    Publication date: January 29, 2015
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD, HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: WEI-HUA CAO
  • Publication number: 20150014128
    Abstract: Provided is a charging-cable storage device configured to store a charging cable for use in an electrically-driven vehicle having an electric motor for traveling. The charging-cable storage device includes a holder-side socket provided with fixed contacts to be connected to a side of a charging power supply, a holder provided with the holder-side socket, a reel that is attachably and detachably attached to the holder and that includes a rotating drum to wind up the charging cable, and a reel-side socket that is provided to the reel and is provided with movable contacts to be displaced in a slidably contacting manner with respect to the fixed contacts in conjunction with a rotation of the rotating drum in a contact state with the fixed contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Eiji Mizuno, Yuichi Hirata
  • Patent number: 8822855
    Abstract: A card connector includes an insulating housing having two side walls of which an inside defines an inserting fillister, electrical terminals including a switch terminal which has a first contact arm and a first contact tail protruding from a free end of the first contact arm, and an upper shielding shell covered on the insulating housing and having two side plates of which one is die-cut to form a connecting slice inserted in the inserting fillister. A bottom of the connecting slice is bent inward to form a ground slice. The card connector utilizes the cooperation of a controlling switch of an electronic card and the first contact arm to control connection and disconnection between the first contact tail and the ground slice so as to further control a write procedure of the electronic card, wherein the controlling switch is movable between a closed position and an open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Proconn Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ching-Jung Chan, Ta-Chih Yu
  • Patent number: 8772654
    Abstract: Circuits, methods, and apparatus that may provide for reliable detection of electrical and optical audio plugs. One example may detect an optical audio plug by employing one or more mechanical detect switches. These switches may include a first contacting portion and a second contacting portion that are separated from each other when an audio plug is inserted into the audio jack. The second contacting portion may include one or more arms to contact a surface portion of the first contacting portion. The first contacting portion and the second contacting portion may be biased such that they tend to stay in contact with each other as the first contacting portion begins to be deflected by the insertion of an audio plug, thereby wiping dust or debris from between the first contacting portion and the second contacting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: George Tziviskos, Zheng Gao
  • Patent number: 8772655
    Abstract: The receptacle includes an insulated body, a pair of pins and a micro switch. The insulated body has a recess. The pair of pins is fixed in the insulated body and located in the recess. The pair of pins includes a first pin and a second pin. The second pin electrically connects a wire. Each of the first and second pins has a free end. The recess is divided into an inner region and an outer region by the two free ends. The micro switch is movably connected in the insulated body and disposed correspondingly to the wire. The micro switch has a contact sheet which can selectively be in contact with the wire. The micro switch is located in the inner region of the recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Chicony Power Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Po-Sheng Lee
  • Patent number: 8736448
    Abstract: A notebook computer stand includes a base and an anti-theft circuit received in the base. A number of supporting pads are positioned on the top surface of the base, to support a notebook computer. The anti-theft circuit includes a pressure sensitive switch, an alarm, a control switch, and a battery. The pressure sensitive switch, the alarm, and the control switch are connected in series. The pressure sensitive switch is positioned on one of the supporting pads. When the notebook computer is placed on the top surface, the pressure sensitive switch is open. The pressure sensitive switch is closed when not under the pressure applied by the weight of the notebook computer, and the battery supplies power to the alarm, the alarm works, when the control switch is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xue-Yun Chen
  • Patent number: 8735749
    Abstract: A push handle switch lampholder pushes a lower conductive plate to move like a see-saw by pushing a push handle to move back and forth and determines whether or not to pass a current to an upper conductive plate, so as to control the ON or Off of a light emitting element. In addition, a set of hooks is provided for connecting a power cable for an electric connection without the need of tying an UL knot to expedite the wire connection conveniently and securely. The invention can reduce the number of components and the volume while achieving the effects of lowering the manufacturing, storage and transportation costs, and improving the overall service life of the lampholder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Rich Brand Industries Limited
    Inventor: Wen Ho Yang
  • Patent number: 8696377
    Abstract: A communication connector with analog coupling circuit and a mechanical coupling circuit used for providing security to electronic devices. The analog circuit includes a male plug with an outer shell and tongue shell. Between the outer shell and tongue is a thin layer of non-conductive material to prevent the closure of a circuit. Two separate conductors are wired through the USB body; one attaching to the outer shell and the other attaching to the tongue. A closed circuit is created when the male USB is placed into a female receptor. The mechanical circuit creates a closed circuit when the plunger switch becomes compressed. There is a security monitor system connected to an end of the two conductors, which sound an alarm when circuit is opened. The alarm will sound if a thief attempts to steal the article either by cutting the wire or removal of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Assignee: Vanguard Products Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Kelsch, Chung-Ping Lee, John N. Figh, Jr., Lucas P. Swartwood, Bruno M. L. Telles
  • Patent number: 8692634
    Abstract: A switch device includes first and second contacting portions including first and second fixed contacting portions, first and second movable contacting portions and first and second break contacting portions, respectively, the first fixed contacting portion and the second fixed contacting portion being configured to be electrically connected to one of a power source and an electronic device while the first movable contacting portion and the second movable contacting portion are configured to be electrically connected to the other of the power source and the electronic device; and a first magnet and a second magnet configured to generate magnetic fields between the first fixed contacting portion and the first movable contacting portion and between the second fixed contacting portion and the second movable contacting portion, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2014
    Assignee: Fujitsu Component Limited
    Inventors: Takashi Yuba, Daiei Iwamoto, SeungSeok Beak, Koichi Kiryu, Akio Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8587910
    Abstract: A functional module for a switch device control is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the functional module includes—a communication unit having a communication interface for communicating with at least one further functional module and/or at least one coupling module,—a control unit connected to the communication unit and designed to receive signals transmitted from the at least one further functional module and/or the at least one coupling module to the communication unit and to transmit switch commands via the communication unit to the at least one further functional module and/or the at least one coupling module,—a first control current interface for the electric connection to a first switch device or an external energy supply unit, and—a second control current interface for supplying control current to the at least one further functional module and/or the at least one coupling module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens AG
    Inventors: Peter Harmsen, Rainer Keil, Helmut Kraus
  • Patent number: 8573992
    Abstract: An electrical connector for connecting to ground and first and second signal lines includes a ground contact, a first signal contact, a second signal contact, and a switch connected to the first signal contact and the ground contact. The switch is biased “on” until after the first signal contact is connected to the first signal line, the ground contact is connected to the ground, and the second signal contact is connected to the second signal line. The switch, during connection of the connector to ground and first and second signal lines, is thereby automatically triggered to “off” during connection of the connector. If the first and second signal lines are differential signals, the switch, instead, electrically connects and disconnects the first signal contact to the second signal contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventors: Howard H. Roberts, Jr., James Allen Andrews, Chris D. Eckhoff P. E., Randal A. Lee
  • Patent number: 8573993
    Abstract: A connector includes a first connector and a second connector configured to engage with the first connector to establish electrical connection, wherein the first connector includes a first contact terminal, and the second connector includes: a second contact terminal configured to come in contact with the first contact terminal; a switch part connected to the second contact terminal and including a fixed part and a movable part; and a movable member capable of pushing the movable part toward the fixed part, wherein the movable member is pushed by the first connector when the first connector engages with the second connector, and the movable member pushes the movable part toward the fixed part to bring the movable part in contact with the fixed part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Fujitsu Component Limited
    Inventors: SeungSeok Beak, Koichi Kiryu, Takashi Yuba, Daiei Iwamoto, Akio Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8517748
    Abstract: A communication connector with analog coupling circuit and a mechanical coupling circuit used for providing security to electronic devices. The analog circuit includes a male plug with an outer shell and tongue shell. Between the outer shell and tongue is a thin layer of non-conductive material to prevent the closure of a circuit. Two separate conductors are wired through the USB body; one attaching to the outer shell and the other attaching to the tongue. A closed circuit is created when the male USB is placed into a female receptor. The mechanical circuit creates a closed circuit when the plunger switch becomes compressed. There is a security monitor system connected to an end of the two conductors, which sound an alarm when circuit is opened. The alarm will sound if a thief attempts to steal the article either by cutting the wire or removal of the plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Vanguard Products Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher A. Kelsch, Chung-Ping Lee, John N. Figh, Jr., Lucas P. Swartwood, Bruno M. L. Telles
  • Publication number: 20130194734
    Abstract: A DC receptacle has, in a housing, a pair of connection sockets with which a pair of connection terminals of a plug used in a DC electrical equipment is adapted to be detachably electrically connected. The DC receptacle includes a circuit opening/closing unit configured to open or close a power line; and a connection verification unit for verifying the connection of the plug to the receptacle. The circuit opening/closing unit opens or closes the power line depending on the connection state between the plug and the receptacle detected by the connection verification unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventor: Panasonic Corporation
  • Patent number: 8496491
    Abstract: A connector unit includes a male connector including a first plug terminal, a second plug terminal, a first switch terminal, and a second switch terminal; and a female connector including a first jack terminal, a second jack terminal, a first contact unit, and a second contact unit. The first jack terminal is connected to the first contact unit. The second jack terminal is connected to the second contact unit. The first switch terminal is configured to make the first contact unit electrically conductive and the second switch terminal is configured to make the second contact unit electrically conductive when the male connector is inserted into the female connector and rotated with respect to the female connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Fujitsu Component Limited
    Inventors: Seung Seok Baek, Koichi Kiryu