Face Plate Type Patents (Class 220/241)
  • Patent number: 7968794
    Abstract: Particular implementations of electrical outlet cover comprise a base comprising a first opening allowing access to the electrical outlet, a first cover comprising a second opening allowing access to the electrical outlet, and a second cover covering the second opening. In particular implementations, the first cover and second cover have opening axes substantially perpendicular to each other. The second cover may be a flat cover or a while in use cover, and in particular implementations the first and second covers may be biased closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 7968795
    Abstract: An exemplary faceplate comprises a panel, a guiding ring and two hooks. The panel includes an inner surface and an opposite outer surface, on which a number of passageways are defined running through the inner and outer surface. The guiding ring is mounted on the inner surface of the panel around a corresponding passageway of the panel. The guiding ring defines a housing room therein that is aligned with and communicates with the corresponding passageway of the panel. Two hooks are separately mounted on the inner surface of the panel and being respectively adjacent to the guiding ring, and each hook includes a clasp formed on an end thereof and the clasp protrudes beyond the guiding ring. The height of the each hook with respect to the inner surface of the panel is higher than that of the adjacent guiding ring with respect to the inner surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Yan Yang
  • Patent number: 7968806
    Abstract: A housing for one or more electrical components that are connected to sources of a plurality of voltages comprises a box, a first cover to cover a first portion of the opening in the box and a second cover to cover a second portion of the opening. The first cover includes a separator that projects into the box when the first cover is installed to divide the interior of the box and so that components connectable to a higher voltage can be separated from components connectable to a lower voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2011
    Assignee: Veris Industries, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Shelton, Marc Bowman, Jim Bernklau, Jeff Stone, Roger McCoy
  • Patent number: 7960651
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an installation of a wiring device configured to receive a cover plate which snaps on to a wiring device such as a switch or receptacle. With this invention, openings for threaded fasteners in the face of the cover plate are eliminated. In an embodiment, the cover plate has an opening sized to accommodate a wiring device and supports, on opposing side walls of the opening, at least one protrusion. The protrusions on the cover plate are located to detachably engage corresponding protrusions on the wiring device as the cover plate is pressed onto the wiring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2011
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: David Alderson, Michael D. Williams, Clifford G. Martin
  • Patent number: 7956295
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box installation in which there is no exposed cover plate, only the operative portion of the electrical component is visible at the wall surface. The operative portion of the component may be an electrical outlet, jack, switch, knob, or light, for example. The body of the electrical component is housed within the outlet box, also referred to as a junction box, with the open side of the outlet box being covered by a plate assembly having an opening that closely surrounds the operative portion of the component. The surface of the plate assembly is covered with wallboard mud, or other wall finishing material, which is blended into the surrounding surface of the wall so that only the operative portion of the component is exposed. The plate assembly includes a projecting wall or lip around the opening, up to which the mud or other fill material is applied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Bocci Design & Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Omer Arbel
  • Patent number: 7950934
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a socket assembly that is positioned in a vehicle is provided. The socket assembly includes a socket plate and a socket body. The socket plate defines a first plurality of openings to enable a connection to a plurality of terminals. The socket body defines a recess therein and a second plurality of openings extend therethrough for receiving the plurality of terminals. The socket body includes at least one channel positioned on an outer periphery of the recess to receive the socket plate such that the socket plate is moveable across the recess and the first plurality of openings are capable of being aligned over the second plurality of openings. The socket body further includes at least one locking member protruding from the socket body to secure the socket plate to the socket body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Faisal K. Sallam, Ralph Emerson Alfeche
  • Patent number: 7948746
    Abstract: A cover opening/closing device of the present invention is formed so that a height of a rib to be in contact with a sealing member asymptotically decreases from a shaft toward an edge of a cover opposite to the shaft. With this configuration, the cover can be closed with only a small load imposed on the cover, whereby the operability in the opening/closing of the cover can be improved. Further, air-tightness of a recessed part provided with a disk drive sealed by the cover can be ensured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Hitoshi Nakatani, Shintaro Tanaka, Haruka Kaneko, Yoshiaki Nagamura
  • Patent number: 7939756
    Abstract: A modular electrical cover plate assembly has an outer frame having two side walls, a top wall and a bottom wall. At least one cover plate is mounted within the frame. Locking structure is provided for locking the frame to the cover plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Liberty Hardware Mfg. Corp.
    Inventors: James Daniels, William Spencer
  • Patent number: 7935887
    Abstract: An electrical device outlet cover for use in covering an opening in an outlet box or an opening in an outlet box drywall ring. It includes a front plate having a cut line formed through a first, telescopable portion of the front plate, the cut line allowing the first, telescopable portion of the front plate to be telescoped outwardly from a second, stationary portion of the front plate. Also provided is a cutting guide with a wall that extends generally perpendicularly upwardly from the front plate and follows a path that generally corresponds to a shape of an outlet box or a drywall ring to which the device outlet cover is to be attached. The invention also provides a method for protecting an electrical device in an electrical device outlet during installation of sheet material and providing for accruing cutting of an opening in the sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: P-W Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Randy Petak
  • Patent number: 7935889
    Abstract: An electrical device cover with a lid coupled to a base unit by a pin and clip hinge. Implementations of a pin and clip hinge may comprise a clip with a rotation stop that tightens against the pin when the lid is opened too far on the base in a way that would ordinarily overextend the hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Cleghorn
  • Patent number: 7935888
    Abstract: A protective cover arrangement (1) for a first electrical unit, e.g. a starter unit (3), mountable on a second electrical unit, e.g. a compressor (2). The protective cover arrangement (1) comprises an outer cover (5) and an inner cover (6). The outer cover (5) comprises mounting parts (8) adapted to cooperate with mounting parts (10) on the second electrical unit in order to mount the outer cover (5) on the second electrical unit. The inner cover (6) is sized and shaped to fit inside the outer cover (5), and it is adapted to accommodate a first electrical unit in an interior part (7). The inner cover (6) comprises an opening (12) allowing electrical connectors (4) to pass from the second electrical unit to the interior part (7), thereby providing electrical connection between the first electrical unit and the second electrical unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Danfoss Compressors GmbH
    Inventors: Kristoffer Riemann Hansen, Dirk Homuth, Hans Peter Kristensen
  • Publication number: 20110068103
    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: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: March 24, 2011
    Applicant: ELECTRONIC CUSTOM DISTRIBUTORS, INC.
    Inventors: Charles J. Provenzano, Michael Leung
  • Patent number: 7902459
    Abstract: A junction box cover assembly for mounting a fixture on a wall or ceiling. The assembly includes an adapter plate for being mounted on a junction box. A patch for supporting the cover assembly on the wall or ceiling in a mounted condition is provided. The patch is adapted to rest flush against the wall or ceiling and to be covered by and embedded in a joint compound. A hub having a body is insertable through openings of the patch and the adapter plate. The assembly includes elements for securing the hub to the adapter plate and elements for securing the hub to the patch. An insert is attachable to the hub for mounting a fixture or providing a blank-up cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Harold Lehr
  • Patent number: 7902458
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes a plate assembly for an electrical outlet. In some embodiments, the plate assembly includes a strapping plate that is attachable to the electrical outlet, and a cover plate sub-assembly that is selectively attachable to the strapping plate. In some embodiments, the cover plate sub-assembly includes a body portion that lies in a first plane, and a first retention member that is fixed to the body portion, and that lies in a second plane parallel to the first plane. The first retention member selectively engages the strapping plate to releasably secure the cover plate sub-assembly thereto. Embodiments of an electrical outlet assembly that implement the plate assembly are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: 360 Electrical, LLC
    Inventor: Brandon Eshelman
  • Patent number: 7847190
    Abstract: A reversible protective cable chute for attachment to a horizontal electrical box or low voltage frame to enable the routing of low voltage cables there through. A first embodiment of the reversible protective cable chute includes a cable shield that is used in conjunction with a conventional decorative cover plate and a second embodiment includes a cover integral with the cable shield. In the first embodiment, the cable shield includes two ears with apertures therein for mounting directly to a conventional single gang electrical box or conventional low voltage frame. Bores are provided in the ears of the protective cable shield for receipt of fasteners for mounting a standard decorative plate thereto. A second embodiment of the reversible protective cable chute includes a cover integral with the cable shield for direct mounting to an electrical box or low voltage frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7834267
    Abstract: A reversible one-piece protective cable chute for routing low voltage cables through walls. The protective cable chute includes a one piece cable shield including a cover plate with a cable shield extending therefrom. The protective cable chute includes two-way mounting apertures therein for mounting directly to a conventional electrical box or conventional low voltage frame. The mounting apertures include a pattern and spacing to match the bores of the electrical box or low voltage frame. An opening and passageway in the protective cable chute are capable of receiving low voltage cables for the purpose of routing them through the wall and into an adjacent room. The cable chute is capable of being mounted to an electrical box or low voltage frame in any of four orientations selectable by the installer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7829788
    Abstract: Apparatus for coupling a signal between a wiring and a device. Junction box mounting is popular in North America, whereas cavity mounting is popular in Europe and the Middle East. The apparatus includes an adapter and provides universal mounting for specialized faceplates which are designed and intended for junction box mounting. The adapter features clamps for gripping the inner surface of a wall cavity or sleeve and a plate for mounting an faceplate designed for junction box mounting. The plate has mounting points with a nominal center-to-center distance of 3¼ inches, corresponding to the requirements of junction box mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Mosaid Technologies Incorporated
    Inventors: Yehuda Binder, Ami Hazani
  • Patent number: 7820911
    Abstract: A reversible protective cable chute assembly for routing low voltage cables through walls. The protective cable chute includes a cover plate with an integral cable shield and a removable panel. The cover plate and panel each include an aperture therein for securing the cable chute assembly to an electrical box or low voltage frame. An alignment device is provided on the removable panel to enable rapid alignment of the panel with either side of the cable chute. An opening and passageway is provided in the cable shield portion of the cover plate for receiving low voltage cables for the purpose of routing them through the wall and into an adjacent room. The removable panel provides a convenient means for adding or removing cables after the initial installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7812257
    Abstract: A cover plate for covering a wall box mounted wiring device such as an electrical receptacle. The cover plate includes an attachment member for covering the wall box opening, at least one opening for at least one wiring device, and a shelf attached to the attachment member. The shelf may also have a non-slip surface or be pitched in such a way that an electronic device such as a cell phone will not fall off. The shelf may also have a lip or raised edge to retain the electronic device. In use, an electronic device will rest on the shelf while charging. The charger plug will be conveniently inserted into the electrical receptacle that is directly below the shelf, with the electronic device resting neatly on the integral shelf. The cover plate reduces clutter related to charging electronic devices in areas such as kitchens or bathrooms. The cover plate may also be used to hold other items such as keys, wallets, watches, clocks, remote controls, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventors: Bryce Robert Gunderman, Robert Dale Gunderman
  • Patent number: 7799993
    Abstract: A water-resistant cover for an electrical outlet box generally includes a base and a lid hingedly coupled to the base. The base has a ridge surrounding a substantial periphery of the base, wherein the ridge includes a top wall, an outer side wall extending downwardly from the top wall and an inner side wall extending downwardly from the top wall. The inner side wall defines a recessed portion of the base and an opening in the recessed portion. The lid is received in the recessed portion in a closed position to cover the opening, wherein the ridge prevents water from entering the opening whether the cover is oriented horizontally or vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Joey Magno, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7799992
    Abstract: A cover plate assembly for mounting an electrical circuit device to an electrical outlet box includes at least one electrical circuit device and a cover plate. The cover plate has a locking member rigidly mounted to its rear surface, whereby the attachment member mounted upon the electrical circuit device is slidably received and restrained by the locking member to secure the electrical circuit device to the cover plate utilizing only the locking member. The locking member is preferably at least two flexibly resilient panels spaced apart so that each panel contacts the attachment member when inserted into the locking member. Both panels are preferably rigidly mounted to the cover plate's interior surface and have inner surfaces sloping outward from their lower edge so that the distance is greatest between their upper edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Inventor: Marvin Pinkowski
  • Patent number: 7795534
    Abstract: A sliding cover faceplate and an electronic device using the same are provided. The sliding cover faceplate includes a sliding cover, a cover plate, and a sliding structure. The cover plate is provided on the electronic device, and the sliding cover is disposed on one side of the cover plate. The sliding structure includes a guiding portion and an elastic positioning portion. The guiding portion is disposed on the cover plate and is connected to the sliding cover to guide the sliding cover to slide between a first location and a second location on the cover plate. The elastic positioning portion connects the cover plate with the sliding cover to provide an elastic force to the sliding cover, such that when the sliding cover slides close to the first location or the second location, the sliding cover is automatically positioned on the first location or the second location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Assignee: ASUSTek Computer Inc.
    Inventors: Chin-Lai Lin, Chih-Ming Fan, Chi-Wen Liu
  • Patent number: 7790983
    Abstract: A user-manipulated door mechanism is mounted on the faceplate of an electronic module for allowing user access to an electrical socket disposed inboard of a faceplate aperture. An inwardly extending rectangular shoulder formed along one edge of the door is rotatably mounted about an axis inboard of the faceplate, and is resiliently engaged by the free end of a cantilevered spring blade inboard of the faceplate. The spring blade engages a first face of the shoulder that is substantially parallel to the door when the door is in a closed position covering the socket, and a second face of the shoulder that is substantially perpendicular to the door when the door is in an open position uncovering the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Yuhong Gong, Xin Wang, Qin Zhang
  • Patent number: 7786380
    Abstract: The present disclosure is a wall plate with a multiple flexible member covered opening. A wall plate with a multiple flexible member covered opening may allow for multiple types of wires to run through the same wall box and wall plate. Wall plate may be designed to directly attach to a standard single gang wall box for an easy installation. Wall plate may include multiple flexible members that may allow cables to enter and exit through the flexible members while covering an opening defined by a frame of the wall plate to provide a finished appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Erik D. Anderson
  • Patent number: 7763799
    Abstract: A cover assembly for attaching to an electrical box includes a base plate, a body and a cover hinged to the body. The assembly is mounted to the electrical box to protect an electrical device from moisture while allowing access to the electrical device. Hinge members are provided that are inserted into a slot on a selected side of the cover and base to enable the cover assembly to be oriented in a horizontal or vertical direction with the cover being pivotally mounted along a horizontal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventor: Steven J. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7763798
    Abstract: A convertible electrical device cover including a base and an adapter coupled as an assembly and configured to accommodate an electrical device. When the convertible electrical device cover is placed in an operative position over the electrical device the adapter may be located between the electrical device and a rear of the base. In particular implementations, a portion of the adapter may be located behind the yoke of the electrical device. The adapter may be movably coupled to the base. A method for installing a convertible electrical device cover is also disclosed including placing the convertible electrical device cover in an operative position over an electrical device so that an adapter may be located between the electrical device and a rear of a base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Shotey, Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 7749451
    Abstract: A secure clamping system for sealing and storing multiple vessels such as commercially available vial arrays, multi-well plates, and deep well blocks, as typically used in the chemical, pharmaceutical, or biological fields including top and bottom plates, with or without drainage or injection ports, secured to the array or well by a C-shaped clamping member that may be fixed or adjustable, or by top and bottom clamping plates having opposite side height adjustable bracket members with cooperating locking members, or by top and bottom clamping plates having eccentrically cammed grasping arms, all for retaining the plates in a secure, leak-proof fit over the top and bottom of the array, well or block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Yale West
  • Patent number: 7732710
    Abstract: The instant invention overcomes the difficulties encountered with respect to mounting electrical wiring devices to a common box and then positioning the devices relative to each other prior to attaching a wall plate. Some of the difficulties encountered are positioning the wiring devices to be in alignment with each other, locating the wiring devices to be parallel to each other, adjusting the spacing between the different devices to be equal and uniform and fixing all of the devices to be flat against the wall. The alignment pins, when engaged by the close clearance locating openings, accurately positions the wiring devices to allow a wall plate to be placed around the wiring devices without requiring any initial or subsequent adjustment. Each set of alignment pins on the alignment plate can be located on a vertical axis which accurately defines the center for the wiring device. The opening in the wiring device receives and holds captive a set of alignment pins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2010
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis A. Oddsen, Leslie Lindenstraus, Anthony Tufano, Steve Zacharevitz
  • Patent number: 7728226
    Abstract: A water-resistant cover assembly for an electrical outlet box includes a gasket sized to substantially cover the open side of the electrical outlet box, an adapter plate and a cover adapted to engage the mounting screw of the electrical fixture for mounting the cover to the outlet box. The adapter plate has an opening sized and shaped to receive a portion of the electrical fixture therein, and further includes a projection extending from a back face thereof. The projection pierces through the gasket to be frictionally held thereto and has a size adapted to be received in the aperture of the electrical fixture for aligning the adapter plate and the gasket thereto. The cover has an opening for providing access to the electrical fixture and is adapted to sandwich the adapter plate and the gasket against the electrical fixture when mounted to the outlet box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Joey Magno, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7709735
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly includes a cover assembly, a gasket and an electrical box coupled together by mounting screws. The cover includes a base with a plurality of screw holes for receiving the mounting screws. A support member having an axial passage extends from the bottom face of the cover around each of the screw holes. The gasket includes a cylindrical shaped sleeve that passes through the support member and has an axial length to extend from the screw hole in the cover. The mounting screws are inserted through the axial passage of the sleeve and the screw holes in the cover to axially compress the sleeve to form a watertight seal between the screw shaft and the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas J. Vigorito, Thomas W. Bracci
  • Patent number: 7687712
    Abstract: A method and system of decoration that includes selecting a particular wall covering pattern, selecting a particular fixture, and continuing the wall covering pattern substantially over the surface of the fixture. The fixture can be an electrical fixture such as a receptacle and/or receptacle cover or switch and/or switch cover or any other type of plate or receptacle. The final arrangement is such that the pattern on the fixture or receptacle almost perfectly matches the wall pattern causing the fixture to become almost invisible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Inventor: Sue Price
  • Patent number: 7683257
    Abstract: Implementations of an electrical cover plate assemblies feature a frame with a finished surface and at least one adapter plate recess in the finished surface. The adapter plate recess includes an electrical device aperture. An adapter plate couples with the frame at the adapter plate recess and is sized to fill the adapter plate recess substantially from its extents at least approximately to an edge of the electrical device aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Richard Cleghorn, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Edgar W. Maltby, Lincoln Jolley
  • Patent number: 7674977
    Abstract: An insulated wall outlet plate assembly. The assembly provides the dual functions of both preventing drafts through the outlet and for preventing against unwanted or accidental access to the outlet. The wall outlet plate assembly includes a wall plate for covering an electrical outlet, a flap assembly secured to the plate having moveable flaps which may be secured in place to close the openings in the outlet plate and a layer of insulation material secured to the backside of the outlet plate for providing insulation against drafts through the outlet. The flaps include an underlying ridge which secures the flaps in place relative to the openings of the outlet plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Airtite Systems LLC
    Inventor: Joseph Constantino
  • Patent number: 7674975
    Abstract: Safety guard apparatus for an electrical outlet having one or more electrical receptacles for restricting access to the receptacles by a young child. The apparatus includes a base plate having one or more openings for registry with the electrical receptacles. The base plate is mounted to the electrical outlet in a similar fashion to a conventional wall plate. One or more cover plates are slidably engaged to the base plate along a path that is generally perpendicular to the base plate into and out of the wall to which the electrical outlet is mounted. In a fully extended position, the one or more cover plates are pivotal to cover the one or more openings to restrict access to the electrical receptacles. A lock system prevents the one or more cover plates from being opened by young child.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Nicole Atkinson, Philip Walker
  • Patent number: 7674976
    Abstract: Disclosed embodiments relate to a wall plate assembly, such as for light switches and electrical outlets, that may be painted to coordinate with the color of a room's walls, trim, or décor. The wall plate assembly includes a transparent outer or cover plate and a concealed backing plate. A reverse side of the transparent outer plate can be painted and the backing plate attached to cover and protect the painted surface. Both the outer plate and the backing plate can be made of molded thermoplastic resin and will typically contain openings to provide access to switches, outlets, plugs, jacks, mounting posts, etc., as well as any holes requires by fasteners such as screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Susan Eastin
  • Publication number: 20100051312
    Abstract: A modular electrical cover plate assembly has an outer frame having two side walls, a top wall and a bottom wall. At least one cover plate is mounted within the frame. Locking structure is provided for locking the frame to the cover plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: James Daniels, William Spencer
  • Patent number: 7654405
    Abstract: Method and system of a detachable nose faceplate. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are methods including orientating a faceplate having an aperture therein, orientating a detachable nose in one of a plurality of possible orientations, aligning the detachable nose with the faceplate, and attaching the detachable nose to the faceplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Direct Connect
    Inventors: Charles J. Provenzano, Michael Leung
  • Patent number: 7652210
    Abstract: A safety device for electrical outlets includes a body having prongs rigidly attached to the body which can be inserted into the openings of a standard electrical outlet, wherein one or more of the prongs define a spring-biased portion defining a barb for engaging the rear surface of the outlet once the device is fully inserted therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Socket-Lockits, Inc.
    Inventor: Patrick M. White
  • Patent number: 7645946
    Abstract: Two symmetrical pieces form an escutcheon that seals the gap between a pipe or conduit and the surface through which it penetrates and supports the pipe or conduit. The device is surface mounted with threaded mechanical fasteners which can be adjusted to vary the compression of the sealing gaskets. The escutcheon can be installed without requiring any manipulation of the pipe or conduit. The escutcheon can be removed and reinstalled repeatedly without any degradation in function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Smith
  • Patent number: 7642459
    Abstract: In a cover unit for a fuel tank, a cover section is attached to the fuel tank to cover an opening of the fuel tank; an electronic-circuit containing section contains an electronic circuit; and an electric conductor is attached to penetrate the cover section and is adapted to electrically connect the electronic circuit with an electrical equipment within the fuel tank. Moreover, a vapor passage is formed between the cover section and the electronic-circuit containing section, and is adapted to discharge fuel exuded from a gap between the cover section and the electric conductor, to outside of the fuel tank in a vapor state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventor: Haruaki Motoda
  • Publication number: 20090321448
    Abstract: Detachable nose faceplate. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are systems including: a faceplate that defines a front side, a back side and a nose aperture, the faceplate configured to removably attach to a surface; a nose portion that defines a top side, a bottom side, a nose edge and a lip that outlines a portion of the bottom side; and a passage defined between the faceplate and the nose edge. The nose portion is both: configured to couple to the faceplate in a first configuration in which the nose portion protrudes through the nose aperture in the direction of the front side of the faceplate and the lip abuts the back side of the faceplate; and configured to couple to the faceplate in a second configuration in which the nose portion protrudes in the direction of the back side of the faceplate and the lip abuts the back side of the faceplate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: ELECTRONIC CUSTOM DISTRIBUTORS, INC.
    Inventors: Charles J. Provenzano, Michael Leung
  • Patent number: 7638710
    Abstract: An outlet attachment system for efficiently securing an electrical plug to an outlet. The outlet attachment system generally includes an inner support structure including at least one channel and at least one stopper member, wherein the channel(s) extends through the inner support structure. The channel(s) includes a front portion and a rear portion, wherein the front portion extends from the rear portion. The stopper member(s) extends partially within the channel(s) between the front portion and the rear portion. The inner support structure is secured adjacent an outlet(s), wherein the rear portion of the channel(s) aligns with the outlet(s). An outer support structure may also be utilized to secure the present invention adjacent the outlet, wherein the inner support structure is secured within the outer support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Inventor: Alan D. Vance
  • Patent number: 7633009
    Abstract: A safety outlet cover that includes a cover with a front face including plug blade apertures. The safety cover may include a cover with a front face where the front face is configured to cover the face of an electrical device except for a plurality of plug blade apertures therethrough. The cover also may include a mounting plate, a frame and a spring element formed as a single piece where the mounting plate includes a receptacle face aperture. When the cover and mounting plate are coupled at a rest position, the cover is configured to cover a plug blade socket in a receptacle face. In a particular implementation, a spring element of the mounting plate is formed as a single piece with the frame and within the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Publication number: 20090294444
    Abstract: The disclosure includes embodiments of an apparatus and a method for gaining operational access to a pressure vessel. In one embodiment, an apparatus is described that is shaped and formed to replace a conventional manway portal cover of a pressure vessel. The apparatus includes an aperture that allows for an object such as, for example, a monitoring device to be attached along the aperture, thereby allowing for increased access to the interior of the pressure vessel during operation of the pressure vessel without the necessity of creating a new aperture in the pressure vessel itself or destroying the conventional manway portal cover. A method is also disclosed for using the described embodiments of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventor: Steven L. Irons
  • Patent number: 7626121
    Abstract: An electrical device cover with a lid coupled to a base unit by a pin and clip hinge. Implementations of a pin and clip hinge may comprise a clip with a rotation stop that tightens against the pin when the lid is opened too far on the base in a way that would ordinarily overextend the hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Cleghorn
  • Patent number: 7622675
    Abstract: A paint shield for covering an electrical device has a generally planar plate with an attachment element connected thereto. The attachment element releasably engages one or more of a standard wall switch, a decor type switch or a socket. At least one overspray wall on the rear face of the plate is spaced from the perimeter of the plate and extends from the plate to provide protection from paint or other surface treatments. The overspray wall may also serve as an attachment element. Blisters at or near the edges of the plate define receptacle for receiving a mounting screw head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: IDEAL Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Sutter
  • Patent number: 7622676
    Abstract: A face plate assembly for an electrical outlet box having an open side and an electrical fixture contained therein generally includes a face plate member and an adapter plate. The adapter plate is defined by an outer periphery and has an opening therein sized and shaped to receive a portion of the electrical fixture therein. The adaptor plate further includes a projection extending from a back face thereof, which has a size adapted to be received in an aperture of the electrical fixture for aligning the adapter plate thereto. The face plate member has an opening having an inner periphery edge surface smaller than the outer periphery of the adapter plate so that the face plate member is adapted to sandwich the adapter plate against the electrical fixture when mounted to the outlet box, wherein the adapter plate is not attached to the face plate member or the electrical fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Cong Thanh Dinh
  • Patent number: 7619163
    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 retracted position through the flexible membrane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Andre Baca, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 7612653
    Abstract: A network outlet fixture providing wall-mounted LAN jacks. The fixture may include an in-wall power supply and be configured for mounting within a conventional multi-gang wall box. The power supply may be directly connected to an adjacent wall outlet, which serves as a power source, in the same or an adjacent wall box. The fixture may include both network switching and fiber-to-copper media converter functionality. The fixture may be configured to disconnect the power source upon removal of a face plate of the fixture. Further, the fixture may be configured to allow mounting of the jack-supporting structure in any one of several different positions relative to a remainder of the outlet fixture. This allows for presentation of the LAN jacks in a certain preferred orientation while permitting the remainder of the outlet fixture to be mounted in several different orientations relative to a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Richard D. Miller, Steven Charles Mongold, Keith James McKechnie
  • Patent number: 7608781
    Abstract: A temporary protective cover which can be removably attached to a plaster ring which can be removably mounted onto an electrical box having an open front end includes a plate sized and shaped to be removably mounted onto the plaster ring, a pair of wings formed onto the plate for removably securing the cover onto the plaster ring and a pair of posts formed onto the plate for removably securing the cover onto the plaster ring. Each wing is shaped to include a flexible leg and a pair of feet one at each end of the wing. The posts are shaped and sized to be press fit into bores on the plaster ring. In use, the wings and the posts both serve to removably secure the cover to the plaster ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventor: Carlo Compagnone, Jr.