Face Plate Type Patents (Class 220/241)
  • Patent number: 12088034
    Abstract: A system and method directed for one or more safety plugs whereby safety plugs may either be individual plates that will insert into unused Telephone, Ethernet, and USB outlets, the safety plug may also be an individual coaxial plate that will cover a coaxial stud thus preventing any damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2023
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2024
    Inventor: Ryan M. Ames
  • Patent number: 12068587
    Abstract: Embodiments of the presently disclosed invention may enable electrical components and connections to be monitored within electrical distribution equipment cabinets having a blanking panel. Such an IR/UV-permitting panel may replace the pre-existing blanking panel in order to monitor the adjacent area having the targeted components and connections to be monitored. NFC tags may be utilized in connection with an IR/UV-permitting panel to enable data acquisition and management systems for the monitoring of electrical components in a cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2023
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2024
    Assignee: IRISS Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Robinson
  • Patent number: 11888298
    Abstract: A cable guide having a fastening structure, a plurality of guide ducts, arranged next to one another, which are coupled to one another by the fastening structure and each guide duct of which comprises two serpentine curve-shaped duct segments between which the fastening structure is arranged, wherein the two serpentine curve-shaped duct segments are configured resiliently in such a way that they can be compressed toward the fastening structure and expanded away from the fastening structure counter to a spring force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2024
    Assignee: Diebold Nixdorf Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Kirschke, Andreas Jeschke, Jörg Schmidt
  • Patent number: 11862903
    Abstract: A device charger is provided. The device charger includes: a faceplate having an electrical outlet-sized aperture therethrough, the faceplate comprising an electrical circuit; a first body extending from a rear side of the faceplate, the first body comprising an AC-to-DC power supply; a second body extending from the rear side of the faceplate, the first body and the second body including respective electrical contacts located to electrically contact one or more respective electrical outlet terminals, the respective electrical contacts configured to provide alternating current from the terminals to an AC input of the power supply at least partially via the electrical circuit of the faceplate; and at least one electrical connector, located at a front side of the faceplate, connected to a DC output of the power supply, the at least one electrical connector for providing DC power to an external device connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2024
    Assignee: 10757616 CANADA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Sunny Bhasin, Daniel Budurea, Igor Pevzner, Andrzej Smereka
  • Patent number: 11855428
    Abstract: A wall plate system for an electrical device, including but not limited to indoor wall switches, includes a wall plate and a shield. The wall plate defines an aperture, and the wall plate is configured to receive a portion of an electrical device in the aperture. The shield extends at least partially through the aperture, and the shield is configured to form a seal between the wall plate and the electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2023
    Assignee: ABL IP Holding LLC
    Inventors: John R. Johnson, Steven E. Downs, Dennis M. Hoskins, Richard L. Westrick, Jr., Kaitlyn K. Mulcahy, Wesley D. McIntire
  • Patent number: 11670926
    Abstract: An electrical receptacle cover, comprising a cover base, configured to be affixed to an electrical receptacle assembly. The cover base including a base surface having at least one opening configured to be aligned with an electrical receptacle of the electrical receptacle assembly. The cover base includes a base wall disposed about and extending from a perimeter of the base surface and the base surface and the base wall together define a base cavity. There is a cover lid interconnected with the cover base and it is moveable, via a hinge, from an open position, in which the base cavity is exposed, to a closed position in which the base cover is substantially disposed within the base cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2023
    Inventor: Sorin Ioan Mortun
  • Patent number: 11489323
    Abstract: A powered wall plate has a wall plate, an electrical circuit, at least two electrical plug prongs, and at least one mounting screw aperture. The wall plate has a front surface opposite a rear surface, as well as at least one opening extending through the front surface and the rear surface and sized to expose a first electrical receptacle of an electrical device therethrough. The electrical circuit is located between the front surface and the rear surface. The at least two electrical plug prongs are coupled to the electrical circuit within the wall plate and extend away from the rear surface of the wall plate. In addition, the at least two electrical plug prongs are configured to removably mate with a second electrical receptacle of the electrical device. A distance between the at least one mounting screw aperture and the at least two electrical plug prongs is adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2022
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 11410821
    Abstract: Remote control devices may control electrical loads and/or load control devices of a load control system without accessing electrical wiring. The remote control device may be mounted over a mechanical switch that is installed in a multi-gang wallbox adjacent to a second electrical device, such as another mechanical switch or an electrical receptacle. The second electrical device may be recessed with respect to the remote control device and may be brought forward towards a front surface of the adapter by loosening a first set of screws that attach a yoke of the second electrical device to the multi-gang wallbox, and tightening a second set of screws that attach the adapter to the yoke of the second electrical device. The remote control device may comprise one or more configurable attachment members for attaching the adapter to the yoke of the mechanical switch and/or to the yoke of the second electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2022
    Assignee: Lutron Technology Company LLC
    Inventors: Chris Dimberg, Jason C. Killo, Brad Michael Kreschollek, Matthew Philip McDonald
  • Patent number: 10958009
    Abstract: Tamper resistant cartridges for electrical devices are provided. The tamper resistant cartridges include a housing and one or more tamper resistant assemblies configured to normally block access to electrical contacts with the electrical device, and to permit access to such electrical contacts when the line phase prongs of a plug are inserted into the electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2021
    Assignee: HUBBELL INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Mark Anthony Mozdzer, Thomas L. Scanzillo, Edward Bazayev, Jason Zachary Walker
  • Patent number: 10881012
    Abstract: An anti-dismantle device is provided. The anti-dismantle device includes an upper case, a lower case, an elastic element, a magnet element, a plurality of balls and a cover. The upper case includes a pin including a groove. The lower case is detachably assembled with the upper case and comprises a receiving part comprising an accommodation space. The elastic element, the magnet element and the balls are disposed in the accommodation space. At least portion of the pin penetrates through the cover, the receiving part, the magnet element and the elastic element and is disposed in the accommodation space. Each ball is partially accommodated in the groove. In response to an elastic force of the elastic element, the magnet element cooperates with the cover to press against the balls for allowing the balls to be fastened in the groove, so that the upper case and the lower case are assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2020
    Assignee: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Chang-Yen Wu, Tien-Wei Lan
  • Patent number: 10726835
    Abstract: A modular controller may be mounted in an opening, such as a standard single wide or double wide electrical junction box, in a wall or other surface. The modular controller may include a power module and a front module. The power module may be mounted in the opening of the surface, and may be configured to provide electrical power to the front module. The front module may be detachably coupleable to the power module. The front module may be configured to receive audio commands, gesture commands, and/or presence input corresponding to a desired action, and may cause the action to be performed by a device of the front module and/or an external device. The front module may include various devices (e.g., components) capable of providing various functionalities, and may be selected for coupling to a power module in a particular location based at least in part on the functionalities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2020
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert John Yu Sam Chua, Pushkaraksha Gejji, Wilfrido Loor Canizares, Adam Kenneth Cybart, Aleksandar Pance, Marc Rene Walliser
  • Patent number: 10003181
    Abstract: Modular electrical box cover plate assemblies are provided. The modular electrical box cover plate assemblies include modular plates that releasably attach to a frame. The modular plates include one or more latch assemblies that provide a snap-fit attachment to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2018
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Krzysztof Korcz, Steven Johnson
  • Patent number: 9893504
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling and installing an outlet cover for an electrical outlet box. The apparatus includes a base having a rectangular mounting aperture for aperture adapter assemblies. To create the desired cover plate, the appropriate aperture adapters has to be selected and assembled to accommodate the desired standard electrical outlet such as a light switch or socket. A cover is hinged to the base by fitting hinge members on both parts together and thus enables the cover to swing forwardly and backwardly against the base. A planar lever and serrated bar is present on one side wall of the base, which is orthogonal with respect to the hinge axis. By retaining the planar lever at different serration on the serrated bar, the planar lever can hold cover at different height and thus adjusts cover plate assembly openings to accommodate various cord sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2018
    Inventor: Junjie Huang
  • Patent number: 9689147
    Abstract: A faucet mounting system includes an upper fixture including an outer wall defining a chamber, and at least one groove formed within an inner surface of the outer wall. A lower mounting shank extends below the upper fixture and includes a skirt, a post extending downwardly from the skirt, and at least one spring clip. The at least one spring clip is recessed within an outer surface of the skirt in a compressed position, and extending outside of the outer surface of the skirt in an extended position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Delta Faucet Company
    Inventors: Darrell Scott Crowe, Kurt Judson Thomas
  • Patent number: 9608421
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a weatherproof electrical box for protecting an electrical connection from the elements. The electrical box includes a housing comprising four side walls and a base forming an interior space, a pivotal cover that latches onto the housing, a circumferential flange extending outwardly from the upper end of the housing, and an outer flange. The outer flange can be releasably attached to corrugations on the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2017
    Assignee: PLY GEM INDUSTRIES, INC.
    Inventors: John M. Wade, Brent A. Dilonardo
  • Publication number: 20150144669
    Abstract: A protective cover includes a main body, a lid, and a touch unit. The main body receives a handheld electronic device. The lid is pivotally connected to the main body via a connection plate. The lid includes a touch panel. The touch unit is mounted inside the lid and the connection plate. The touch unit is configured to calculate touch track of the touch panel and transmit a touch signal to the handheld electronic device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Inventor: JEN-TSORNG CHANG
  • Patent number: 9035182
    Abstract: A cover assembly for a floor box includes a base with a central opening and a cover pivotally connected to the base by a hinge member. The hinge member has a hinge body with a first end pivotally connected to the base for pivoting with respect to the base and second end pivotally connected to the cover for pivoting with respect to the cover. A tab extends from the second end of the hinge body to contact a bottom surface of the cover to limit pivoting movement of the cover with respect to the hinge body. A slide surface is provided on the base that contacts an end of the cover during pivoting movement of the cover to prevent wear on a gasket with the opening of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: HUBBELL INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Thomas L. Scanzillo, Michael J. Marchetti, Christopher A. Carbone, Ryan G. Papageorge
  • Patent number: 9018526
    Abstract: An electrical device cover configured for mounting over an electrical device comprises a frame including a frame channel and an frame opening. The frame opening is defined by at least four sides and is large enough to receive at least one electrical device. A sliding tab comprising a screw channel is provided, the sliding tab is slidably coupled with the frame channel and is slidable to a closed position in which the screw channel at least partially surrounds a box mounting screw of the at least one electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Andre Baca, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 8963001
    Abstract: An electrical device cover assembly configured for mounting over an electrical device is described. The electrical device cover assembly comprises a base comprising an opening large enough to receive an electrical device. A lid comprising a lid face, a lid ring, and an expansion section between the lid face and the lid ring, the lid coupled to the base and comprising an inside surface and an expansion section, the expansion section expandable from a first depth to a second depth at least twice as deep as the first depth is provided. An expansion arm moveable between a first collapsed position when the expansion section is at its first depth and an second expanded position when the expansion section is at its second depth, wherein in the second position the expansion arm is in contact with and supports the lid at its second depth is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Kenneth C. Booth, Miguel Chapa, Bradley Fulghum
  • Patent number: 8946550
    Abstract: An electrical device cover configured for mounting over an electrical device comprises a frame including a frame channel and an frame opening. The frame opening is defined by at least four sides and is large enough to receive at least one electrical device. A sliding tab comprising a screw channel is provided, the sliding tab is slidably coupled with the frame channel and is slideable to a closed position in which the screw channel at least partially surrounds a box mounting screw of the at least one electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Andre Baca, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 8921714
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a modular wall box system configured to be mounted substantially flush with respect to the wall. The assembly includes a plurality of wall surfaces, each wall surface includes a single gang opening that accommodates an AC electrical wiring device or a low voltage telecom device. At least one removable flange cover is configured to be removably coupled to the mounting flange. At least one modular connector can be inserted within the single gang modular device opening and includes a slidable engagement portion. The slidable engagement portion slidably engages a lateral edge of the wall surface forming the single gang modular device opening such that the at least one modular connector is slidably moveable to any vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew M. Haberek, Kapil Ganta, Theodore Junko
  • Patent number: 8912442
    Abstract: One example embodiment includes a cover plate for an electrical receptacle. The cover plate includes a first conducting strip. The first conducting strip protrudes rearward from the cover plate and is configured to contact a first terminal of a receptacle, where the first terminal connects the receptacle to a power source. The cover plate also includes a first insulating means, where the first insulating means prevents the first conducting strip from contacting other conducting materials. The cover plate further includes a second conducting strip. The second conducting strip protrudes rearward from the cover plate and is configured to contact a second terminal of the receptacle, where the second terminal completes the connection of the receptacle to the power source. The cover plate additionally includes a second insulating means, where the second insulating means prevents the second conducting strip from contacting other conducting materials. The cover plate also includes a load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2014
    Assignee: SnapPower
    Inventor: Jeremy Smith
  • Patent number: 8908367
    Abstract: An electronic device enclosure includes a chassis and a cover. The chassis includes a fixing post and defines a receiving space configured to receive a storage device. The cover defines a latching hole. The fixing post is engaged in the latching hole to engage the cover with the chassis and cover the receiving space when no storage device is in the receiving space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Xu-Quan Hu
  • Patent number: 8901421
    Abstract: A decorative circuit breaker panel cover can decorate and/or add functionality to a circuit breaker panel cover. In some embodiments, the decorative cover may be, for example, a decorative tin having an inlaid design. In other embodiments, the decorative cover may include a shelving system that fits over the circuit breaker panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Wall Art Covers, LLC
    Inventor: Michael M. Texter
  • Patent number: 8881928
    Abstract: Provided is a casing cover able to conform to the dimensional tolerance in a difference between levels of the casing. The casing cover has an upper level cover which covers two openings in the upper level of the casing and a lower level cover which covers an opening in a lower level of the casing. Furthermore, among the upper level cover and the lower level cover: one is formed with an insertion opening passing therethrough in the direction of the height of the difference in levels; and the other is provided with a guide fitting formed to a length in the direction of the height of the difference in levels, which is longer than the maximum allowable dimension of the height of the difference between levels plus a value, and inserted into the insertion opening. In addition, for purposes of preventing the guide fitting, which connects the upper level cover and the lower level cover, from slipping out of the insertion opening, a connection fitting is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yusuke Sakamoto, Kenjiro Shiba
  • Publication number: 20140326726
    Abstract: An interchangeable cover system is provided for use with an electrical power or data unit, such as at or near a work surface. The cover system includes an aesthetic cover and a clip member. The aesthetic cover has an aesthetic surface and an attachment surface, which is opposite the aesthetic surface. The clip member is positioned at the attachment surface of the aesthetic cover, and is used to releasably secure the aesthetic cover to a housing of the electrical power unit. In one embodiment, the clip member includes a pair of resilient projections with hook-like portions for releasably engaging an opening formed in the housing of the power unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Publication date: November 6, 2014
    Inventors: Norman R. Byrne, Daniel P. Byrne, Randell E. Pate
  • Publication number: 20140284326
    Abstract: A lid assembly, for a floor mounted utility box allowing data/electrical cable connections, including: a frame, a lid, and a flap, wherein the frame is mounted upon the utility box so that, it lies substantially flush with the floor. The lid including rear, front panels hingedly connected; the rear edge of the rear panel hingedly connected to the rear edge of the frame. The flap is hingedly connected to the front panel, so that when the lid is closed, at least the rear/front panels lay flat and substantially flush with the level of the floor. When opened, the lid bifolds about the hinged connection between the rear/front panels, causing the forward edge of the front panel slide towards the rear edge of the frame, so that when the lid is moved to its fully opened position, the rear/front panels substantially overlay one another in the vicinity of the rear of the frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: September 25, 2014
    Inventors: Salvatore Macaluso, Jamie Andrew Zoch, Luke Vincent Orton, Selasi Yaw Dorcoo
  • Patent number: 8835764
    Abstract: Systems and other embodiments associated with a universal faceplate assembly are described. According to one embodiment, a faceplate includes a substantially planar plate base configured to mount on a wiring enclosure. At least one opening in the plate base is configured receive a receptacle. The opening is configured to receive receptacles of a first receptacle type or a second receptacle type. The faceplate also includes a faceplate notch in a front surface of the plate base configured to receive a receptacle tab. The receptacle tab is disposed on receptacles of the first receptacle type or the second receptacle type. The receptacle tab is configured to allow a fastener to pass through the faceplate notch and the receptacle tab to attach the receptacle to the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Paul David Seff, Alston Gareth Brooks, Steven Christopher Saad
  • Patent number: 8835763
    Abstract: A paint shield for protecting and covering an electrical junction box typically mounted in a wall of a structure is disclosed. Junction boxes used for outlets and switches typically include an inner surface defined by side walls meeting top and bottom walls at corners of the box. The paint shield engages the junction box only at the corners so allow easy insertion and removal of the paint shield. The paint shield can also be configured to enclose a light switch or outlet protruding from the junction box and beyond the plane of the wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Inventor: Garry Paul Hammond
  • Patent number: 8779302
    Abstract: A system for fitting and electrically connecting lighting elements, including at least one junction box accommodated in a wall (11), the junction box having a housing (12) provided with an open front side parallel to the wall and with a power supply (15) therein, and a lath cover (2) with a pattern of holes (3) which is coupled to the front side of the housing in order to conceal the junction box in the wall, with a cover plate (1) being provided between the housing (12) and the lath cover (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Delta Light NV
    Inventor: Paul Ameloot
  • Patent number: 8779288
    Abstract: A cover base for an electrical device is disclosed. The cover base includes a base portion with a front surface and a back surface, the base portion also having a first opening extending through the base portion from the front surface to the back surface, the first opening having a size larger than an electrical device face; and an adapter having a second opening sized and configured to receive the electrical device face therein, wherein the adapter is configured to fit within the first opening in the base portion to removably couple to the base portion. Numerous electrical device cover bases including keyholes formed in either the base or the adapter, or both, depending on the arrangement are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Marcus J. Shotey, Samuel Dumpe, Jason Thomas, Ryan K. Liebengood
  • Patent number: 8720724
    Abstract: A mechanism is provided for physically protecting an interface on an electronic device having first and second protrusions, each having a surface. The mechanism includes first and second clamping mechanisms, a hinge assembly and a cover plate. Each clamping mechanism has a pair of blocks that are detachably fastenable together. As assembled along the protrusion surface of the device, the blocks form a channel that rigidly engages that surface. The hinge assembly forms a pivotable joint and can be removably attached to the first clamping mechanism to orient the pivotable joint substantially parallel to the interface. The cover plate can be removably attached to the hinge assembly for disposal to swing on the pivotable joint between closed and open positions. In the closed position, the cover plate securely connects to at least the second clamping mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Carl S. Lynn, IV
  • Patent number: 8723037
    Abstract: A shield for biasingly self-attaching to a duplex electrical receptacle in a wall without having to be plugged into the duplex electrical receptacle or having to enter the wall and for completely concealing the duplex electrical receptacle to completely hide and thereby protect the duplex electrical receptacle from paint when painting therearound. The shield includes a shell. The shell is generally rectangular parallelepiped shaped for biasingly self-attaching to the duplex electrical receptacle in the wall without having to be plugged into the duplex electrical receptacle or having to enter the wall and for completely concealing the duplex electrical receptacle to completely hide and thereby protect the duplex electrical receptacle from the paint when painting therearound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Raymond T. Matsumoto
  • Patent number: 8717771
    Abstract: An electronic device including a case, a covering plate, at least one first fixing unit, at least one second fixing unit, a circuit board disposed in the case, and a plurality of screwing members is provided. The case covered by the covering plate has a first datum surface and a second datum surface, where a distance between the covering plate and the first datum surface is greater than a distance between the covering plate and the second datum surface. The first and the second fixing units are disposed on the first and the second datum surfaces respectively. The first fixing unit includes a first screwing boss and at least one first rib adjacent thereto. The second fixing unit includes a second screwing boss and at least one second rib adjacent thereto. The screwing members pass through the covering plate and are screwed to the corresponding first and second screwing bosses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Inventec Corporation
    Inventor: Hsiao-Chang Chen
  • Patent number: 8668347
    Abstract: A cover for an electrical receptacle including a faceplate. The cover also includes a first transmission tab configured to be electrically connected to a first power line of the electrical receptacle and a second transmission tab configured to be electrically connected to a second power line of the electrical receptacle. Additionally, the cover includes a device (such as a light source, circuit, port, or sensor) in communication with the first transmission tab and the second transmission tab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Inventor: Cordell Eldred Ebeling
  • Patent number: 8653364
    Abstract: When a wall mounted telephone is removed from its mounting plate, the telephone wall plate and jack remains and this is unsightly. The frame of the present invention allows the telephone plate to remain, but be obscured. The frame assembly includes a removable, transparent cover that releasably attaches to a base member and a photograph, a drawing, other graphic decorative material or written indicia is sandwiched therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventor: Brian Joseph Roban
  • Patent number: 8629348
    Abstract: A fire resistant assembly which may be used to ensure the fire resistance of a fire barrier such as a wall, comprising a first layer having a lumen therein, a second layer adjacent the first layer, and a box having a cavity defined by a wall, an opening in the wall, and a flange proximate the opening, wherein the box is disposed between the first layer and the second layer and wherein the opening is disposed on the lumen of the first layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: E.Z. Barrier, Inc.
    Inventor: Happy Moselle
  • Patent number: 8618416
    Abstract: The present invention is an outlet cover that is useful for covering a cylindrical socket type outlet. The outlet cover provides a watertight cover that is useful in marine applications and may be useful in automotive applications as well. The outlet cover has a base that has a flange. An upstanding ring extends upwardly from the base and an annular notch that has a diameter smaller than the outer diameter of the upstanding ring. A cap has a tether that joins the base to the cap. An annular rib in the cap is adapted for mating with the annular notch on the base. The annular rib includes a notch partially through it and is adapted for accommodating the tether when the annular rib is mated with the notch on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Inventors: Daniel A. Rothbaurer, Brian E. Rothbauer
  • Patent number: 8598456
    Abstract: A cover assembly includes a base, a cover and a hinge coupling the cover to the hinge. The hinge includes a body coupled to a rear face of the base and extends outwardly from a side edge of the base. The hinge has a leg oriented to contact an edge of the cover when the cover is pivoted to the open position. The edge frictionally engages the leg of the hinge to hold the cover in an open position and limit rotation of the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Christopher A. Carbone, David L. Lutz, Thomas McLean
  • Patent number: 8592681
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a system includes an electrical device and a removable cover, where the electrical device and the removable cover are adapted to enable the removable cover to pivot into an installed position on the electrical device. In another embodiment, a system includes an electrical device having a pushbutton, and a cover adapted to be removably attached to the electrical device, where the cover includes an opening for accessing the pushbutton, and where the pushbutton includes a sub button and a cosmetic cap adapted to be removably attached to the sub button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: R. David Alderson, Jerry R. Hoffman, Michael D. Williams, Ronald H. Jansen, Adam Kevelos, Nehal P. Shah, Kang Pin Tee
  • Patent number: 8592682
    Abstract: An electrical device cover assembly configured for mounting over an electrical device is described. The electrical device cover assembly comprises a base comprising an opening large enough to receive an electrical device. A lid comprising a lid face, a lid ring, and an expansion section between the lid face and the lid ring, the lid coupled to the base and comprising an inside surface and an expansion section, the expansion section expandable from a first depth to a second depth at least twice as deep as the first depth is provided. An expansion arm moveable between a first collapsed position when the expansion section is at its first depth and an second expanded position when the expansion section is at its second depth, wherein in the second position the expansion arm is in contact with and supports the lid at its second depth is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Kenneth C. Booth, Miguel Chapa, Bradley Fulghum
  • Patent number: 8586864
    Abstract: An electrical outlet cover assembly includes a base with a base wall and a plurality of side walls, a lid hinged to the base, and at least one port extending through at least one base wall. A cord catch plate is removably placed in the at least one port, the cord catch plate having a reentrant opening therethrough off a side of the plate. Ports may be included on multiple walls, and multiple cord catch plates, or a blocking plate may be placed in other ports. A flexible flap or two may extend inward of a channel in the cord catch plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Jason P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 8584310
    Abstract: A vacuum electronic power tool sense system senses the operation of a power tool that is plugged into an onboard power outlet and the vacuum source is automatically operated to facilitate user clean-up of debris generated by use of the power tool. A delay period can be utilized to maintain the vacuum source is an on state for a predetermined period of time after the power tool is turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: David R. Beers, Kathy E. DiPasquale, Spencer G. Maid
  • Patent number: 8569620
    Abstract: An expandable while-in-use electrical outlet cover assembly comprising a lid operatively coupled to a base, the lid comprising flexible clips each comprising a first end, a mid-position and a second end. The collapsible lid may be held in an expanded position by the first end of the flexible clips and collapsed to a collapsed position by applying force to the lid such that a box-like cap slides with respect to a support ring such that the cap seats at the mid-portion of the flexible clip. Particularly useful for rigid lids, like metal lids, the collapsible cover protects the outlet beneath the cover while an electrical cord is plugged in, but still collapses to a smaller profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 8569621
    Abstract: A cover for electrical devices is disclosed. Particular implementations include an electrical device cover configured to mount over an electrical device includes a lid having a flexible membrane. The lid is coupled by a hinge to a base and the cover includes a cord port in an edge of a surface of the cover. The lid is configured to expand through the flexible membrane to an expanded position to accommodate an electrical connector coupled with the electrical device. The lid may also be configured to reduce in depth as the lid retracts from the expanded position to a refracted position through the flexible membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Ryan K. Liebengood
  • Patent number: 8530742
    Abstract: A household appliance having at least one fascia panel. In an exemplary embodiment, the at least one fascia panel may include an electronics housing structured to house electronic components for operating the household appliance, and a cosmetic panel structured to be at least one of mounted and joined with the electronics housing. The cosmetic panel may include one or more interfaces cooperating with the electronic components for operating the dishwasher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: BSH Home Appliances Corporation
    Inventors: David Hite, Michael Justis
  • Patent number: 8490815
    Abstract: Reversible nose faceplate. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems including a faceplate and a nose member. The nose member includes: an extension portion; a nose portion; a first abutting surface; a second abutting surface; a first set of ears coupled to the extension portion adjacent the nose portion; and a second set of ears coupled to the extension portion opposite the first set of ears. The nose member is configured to couple to the faceplate in multiple configurations, including: a first configuration in which the nose portion protrudes through a nose aperture of the faceplate in the direction of the front side of the faceplate, the first abutting surface abuts the back side of the faceplate, and the faceplate is affixed to the first set of ears; and a second configured in which the nose portion protrudes in the direction of the back side of the faceplate, the second abutting surface abuts the back side of the faceplate, and the faceplate is affixed to the second set of ears.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: DirectConnect
    Inventors: Charles J. Provenzano, Michael Leung
  • Patent number: 8471145
    Abstract: A terminal box has a box body that has a shape of a box having an opening on one surface, has a body-side hinge structure on an end thereof, and accommodates therein an output-cable connecting unit, and a cover that has a cover-side hinge structure forming a hinge structure with the body-side hinge structure, that is pivotally supported by the hinge structure an end thereof so as to pivotally open or close the opening of the box body. The hinge structure has an attitude holding structure that holds an attitude of the cover at a position where the cover is at a predetermined angle with respect to the box body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Issei Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8471146
    Abstract: A cover for use with a panelboard enclosure. The cover includes a cover element for mounting onto a panelboard enclosure. The cover element includes an insert for insertion into a cover opening. A plate section is attached to the insert along peripheral edges of the plate section by a thin wall section to form a cover suitable for use with a main lug panelboard configuration. The thin wall section is sized relative to the plate section to enable separation of the plate section from the insert by a user to then form a cover suitable for use with a main breaker panelboard configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher Scott Robinson, Jeffrey Kenton Hudgins, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8471147
    Abstract: A cover includes an upper cover, a lower cover, a fixing member fixed to the lower cover, and a sliding member positioned between the lower cover and the fixing member. The lower cover defines a notch. The sliding member includes at least one latching portion and a toggle that is slidably received in the notch. The upper cover defines at least one opening. The at least one latching portion is slidably received in the at least one opening correspondingly to connect the upper cover to the lower cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: He-Hui Yang, Yu-Guo Gao, Kai-Kuei Wu, Kun-Chih Hsieh