Distribution Or Control Panel Board Patents (Class 361/627)
  • Publication number: 20090323256
    Abstract: An interface for facilitates at least one of control and monitoring of a system for generating electric power, the system including a control panel. The interface may include a compartment configured to be operably associated with a housing defining an interior at least partially containing the system for generating electric power. The interface may further include at least one electrical connector contained within the compartment, and an access panel operably associated with the compartment. The access panel may be configured to facilitate selective access to an interior of the compartment from an exterior of the housing. The at least one electrical connector may be configured to be coupled to an electric line electrically connected to the control panel and an electric line extending to a location exterior to the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Inventors: Michael R. Errera, David A. Shipman, Nelson H. Slaughter
  • Patent number: 7619181
    Abstract: A control system suitable for use with a bathing unit system having a water receptacle is provided. The control system comprises a heating module, a power source and a controller in communication with the heating module and the power source. The power source includes an energy storage member for storing energy collected from a solar panel, and is operative for supplying power generated from solar energy to the heating module. The controller is operative for causing the power source to supply power to the heating module at least in part based on first information derived from a temperature of the water within the water receptacle and second information derived from a condition associated with the power source. The controller is further operative for selecting between a first power source and a second power source for supplying power to the heating module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Gecko Alliance Group Inc.
    Inventor: Michel Authier
  • Publication number: 20090244817
    Abstract: An electrical distribution system includes a primary distribution panel connectable to a main power line; a plurality of primary circuit breakers located in the primary distribution panel; a plurality of primary electrical lines electrically connected to the primary circuit breakers; at least one secondary distribution panel electrically connected to the primary distribution panel by a secondary power line; one or more secondary circuit breakers in the secondary distribution panel; secondary electrical line(s) connected to the secondary circuit breakers; and a control device configured to control the flow of electrical power from the primary distribution panel to the secondary distribution panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Publication date: October 1, 2009
    Inventor: Anthony R. Moyer
  • Patent number: 7580247
    Abstract: A load center system includes a primary bus bar with primary stabs for receiving a first type of circuit breaker, the primary stab extending from a primary base portion of the primary bus bar. A secondary bus bar with a secondary base portion and secondary stabs is coupled to the primary bus bar in a generally overlapping position, for receiving a second type of circuit breaker. Both the primary and secondary bus bars can be formed from stamping. By utilizing bus bars with base portions, the primary and secondary bus bars together provide for ease of assembly, and structural integrity, while allowing either of the first type of circuit breaker and the second type of circuit breaker to be coupled to the load center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventors: Dave Pearson, William J. Broghammer
  • Publication number: 20090154070
    Abstract: A modular power distribution system comprises a chassis and a backplane including a power input, and a plurality of module connection locations. A plurality of modules are mounted in the chassis, each module mounted to one of the module connection locations. Each module includes: (i) a circuit protection device; and (ii) a power output connection location. Bus bars connect front power inputs to the backplane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Coffey, David Johnsen, Duane Sand, Bradley Blichfeldt
  • Publication number: 20090141431
    Abstract: A power distribution panel having circuit elements such as KTK and GMT fuses removably mounted to a unit housing by means of module members, thereby allowing for ease of customization of the circuit elements of the power distribution panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Applicant: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Schomaker, Carlos Arroyo Gonzalez, Delfino Hernandez, Luis Manuel Sanchez Aguilar, Narciso Delgado Guevara, Celsa Mora Curiel
  • Patent number: 7538448
    Abstract: A power supply circuit structure includes: a first bus bar in which a power supply side terminal that is to be connected with a power supply post protruded from a DC/DC converter is disposed in one end side, a current sensor passing portion is disposed on another end side, and an output terminal portion is disposed at the tip end of the current sensor passing portion; and a second bus bar having an input terminal portion which is to be connected with the output terminal portion of the first bus bar, and an output terminal portion which is to be connected with a terminal of a power supply wire end, and which is on another end side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignees: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Toyota Auto Body Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Noriyuki Yoshida, Hiroyuki Wakamatsu, Yosuke Okamoto
  • Patent number: 7511945
    Abstract: An electrical distribution system includes a distribution board having input connectors for live and neutral lines from an electricity supply and an earth line; and a plurality of circuit breakers connected to the live line, characterized in that the distribution board has a plurality of three-terminal output connectors, each output connector being wired to the neutral and earth lines and to a power output line of a respective circuit breaker, the output connectors being engageable with complimentary connectors for the distribution of electrical energy from the distribution board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Inventor: Robert Peter Bernard Scott
  • Publication number: 20090034167
    Abstract: Systems and method for installing computer equipment and power distribution equipment in facilities is provided. In one aspect, the present invention provides a power distribution rack, and uninterruptible power supply rack and a plurality of equipment racks. A plurality of power cables are run from the power distribution rack to each of the plurality of equipment racks using power cable tracks located on the roofs of the equipment racks. A plurality of data cables run between the plurality of equipment racks using data cable tracks located on the roofs of the equipment racks. The power cable tracks and data cable tracks are designed to be installed on the roofs of the equipment racks without the need for tools.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: AMERICAN POWER CONVERSION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Neil Rasmussen, William Ziegler, Peter Francis
  • Publication number: 20090021078
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated method and computer program products involve a highly efficient uninterruptible power distribution architecture to support modular processing units. As an illustrative example, a modular processing unit includes an integrated uninterruptible power system in which a PFC-boost AC-to-DC conversion occurs between the utility AC grid and the processing circuit (e.g., microprocessor) loads. In an illustrative data center facility, a power distribution architecture includes a modular array of rack-mountable processing units, each of which has processing circuitry to handle network-related processing tasks. Associated with each modular processing unit is an integrated uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to supply operating power to the network processing circuitry. Each UPS includes a battery selectively connectable across a DC bus, and a AC-to-DC rectifier that converts an AC input voltage to a single output voltage on the DC bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Inventors: Selver Corhodzic, Andrew B. Carlson, William H. Whitted, Montgomery Sykora, Ken Krieger, William Hamburgen, Donald L. Beaty, Gerald Aigner, Jimmy Clidaras
  • Patent number: 7471505
    Abstract: A power interface operable to direct power from one of a first source and a second source to a load. The power interface includes a support plate, and a switch extending through the support plate. The switch is electrically connected to the first source and to the load and is movable between a first switch position in which power from the first source is directed to the load, and a second switch position in which power from the first source is inhibited from reaching the load. An electrical connector is electrically connectable to the load and is connectable to the second source to facilitate the delivery of power from the second source to the load. A movable cover is movable between a first cover position in which the cover inhibits connection between the electrical connector and the second source and a second cover position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: Philip Gull, Wesley C. Sodemann
  • Publication number: 20080297987
    Abstract: Structured cabling solutions may include techniques and systems usable to route, organize, and otherwise manager wires, optical fibers, and other cables. Structured cabling solutions may include one or more chassis coupled to and movable relative to a frame to provide access to signal connectors on the chassis. Structured cabling solutions may also include labeling schemes that identify patch connectors that correspond to outlets in a structured cabling installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Applicant: Telect, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Robert Hawley, Jeremy James Gallagher, Walter Dean Takisaki, James Patrick Jenkins
  • Publication number: 20080266759
    Abstract: A power distribution unit may include a power distribution unit frame, where the power distribution unit frame has a 2U form factor, and where the power distribution unit frame is coupled to mount in an embedded computer frame. A plurality of power ingress sites may be coupled to a rear portion of the power distribution unit frame, where each of the plurality of power ingress sites has a current capacity of at least 100 amperes, where each of the plurality of power ingress sites includes an ingress pin coupled to interface with an ingress in-line, hyperboloid radial socket, and where the power distribution unit has a current capacity density of the plurality of power ingress sites of at least 600 amperes per power distribution unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 1, 2008
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Applicant: Emerson Network Power - Embedded Computing, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Kelly, Naufel C. Naufel, Irena Borucki, Eugene R. Pilat, Markus Tegethoff
  • Patent number: 7440262
    Abstract: A modular power distribution system comprises a chassis and a backplane including a power input, and a plurality of module connection locations. A plurality of modules are mounted in the chassis, each module mounted to one of the module connection locations. Each module includes: (i) a circuit protection device; and (ii) a power output connection location. Bus bars connect front power inputs to the backplane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Coffey, David Johnsen, Duane Sand, Bradley Blichfeldt
  • Patent number: 7423555
    Abstract: A human machine interface with expanded function includes a panel and a printed circuit board. A first key apparatus electrically coupled to the printed circuit board is mounted on the panel. The printed circuit board provides an expansion interface for optionally connecting a second key unit, so that a user can design and install the second key unit according to distinct requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Li-Wen Chai
  • Patent number: 7414828
    Abstract: A current distributor includes a common, uninterrupted first main busbar as a main current supply and a number of current distributor modules which are each associated with a respective circuit breaker and can be disposed in a row along the main busbar. The current distributor module or each current distributor module has a first connection line for supplying current to a load circuit. The current distributor module or each current distributor module has a housing, a slot formed on a front side of the housing for plugging on an associated circuit breaker, and a first channel which passes through the housing in a transverse direction for accommodating the first main busbar. A first contact opening of the slot corresponds to the first channel and a second contact opening of the slot corresponds to a housing receptacle for a connection socket of the first connection line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Ellenberger & Poensgen GmbH
    Inventor: Markus Birner
  • Patent number: 7405923
    Abstract: The invention provides a circuit breaker panel with several safety features. The main breaker is separated from the circuit breakers by a non-conducting shield. The main breaker is also covered by a transparent, non-conducting shield. A further transparent non-conducting shield separates the circuit breakers from the neutral and ground bus bars. The neutral and ground bus bars are offset from one another to prevent wire crowding. Bending posts extending from the back plate of the panel help control the wire in the panel to prevent it from crossing bus bars or circuit breakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Golden Technology Management, LLC
    Inventors: Sean F. Kelly, John P. Gaus
  • Patent number: 7375981
    Abstract: An electric power distribution and control apparatus has a stack of conductive plates each having a plurality of spaced contact pads and conductive traces connecting the contact pads to others of the pads. At least one of the plates has contact terminals for connection to electrical components for supply of electrical current. An array of contact pins pass through holes in the plates at a respective one of the contact pads such that the array of pins provides connection between selected contact pads of different selected conductive plates. An electronic system for connection to a communication bus is added to the above known system by providing a main circuit board having the electronic components thereon, a mapping circuit board having a plurality of contact pads thereon arranged for connection to respective ones of the array of pins and a header having a male pin array and a female socket array connecting the main printed circuit board and the mapping circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: Vansco Electronics LP
    Inventor: Kevin Dickson
  • Patent number: 7359182
    Abstract: The invention relates to a plug-in unit assembly comprising instrument transformers, a case assembly (1) comprising a connector assembly (10), and a plug-in unit (2) comprising at least one instrument transformer (3, 4) and configured to be connected to the case assembly (1). The instrument transformers (3, 4) of the plug-in unit (2) are coded in such a manner that the codings of the current transformers (3) and the voltage transformers (4) are different. The connector assembly (10) of the plug-in unit assembly of the invention is capable of identifying the type of the instrument transformers (3, 4) and based on their coding when the plug-in unit (2) is being connected to the case assembly (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: ABB Oy
    Inventor: Simo Kangas
  • Patent number: 7292433
    Abstract: An adjustment assembly adjustably couples enclosures, such as a meter breaker panelboard and a load distribution panelboard, in a back-to-back configuration within a structure, such as a wall. The adjustment assembly includes a first end member at or about the top end of one of the enclosures, a second end member at or about the bottom end of the other enclosure, and at least one fastener coupling the end members together. A number of elongated apertures in at least one of the end members, such as slots and arcuate apertures, provide translational and pivotal adjustment, respectively. The fastener, which may comprise bolts and wingnuts to enable such adjustment without requiring separate tools, extends from one enclosure through at least one of the elongated apertures in the end member of the other enclosure in order to couple the enclosures together while enabling adjustment of one enclosure with respect to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey L. Johnson, Syed M. Karim
  • Patent number: 7187177
    Abstract: A method of monitoring a power distribution unit (306) may include providing a power distribution unit frame (310), where the power distribution unit frame has a 2U form factor (312), and where the power distribution unit frame is coupled to mount in an embedded computer frame (102). An alarm module (418) may be coupled to a circuit breaker connection site (214) in the power distribution unit frame. The alarm module may detect whether a circuit breaker (416) is coupled to the circuit breaker connection site via a set of auxiliary contacts (439). If the alarm module detects the circuit breaker, the alarm module monitors a set of shelf conditions. If the alarm module fails to detect the circuit breaker, the alarm module does not monitor the set of shelf conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Kelly, Naufel C. Naufel
  • Patent number: 7149099
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) includes a portable electric power storage arrangement (14) and a power panel (18) all mounted in or on a common housing (11) that includes a carrying feature or handle (12) by which the housing may be easily carried. The electrical power storage arrangement (14) provides DC electrical power for the power panel (18) and preferably includes one or more rechargeable batteries. Apparatus (10) further includes an inverter circuit (15) mounted in or on the housing (11) for inverting power from one or more batteries associate with the apparatus to produce a modeler's AC output. The modeler's AC power output comprises an AC power signal that is sufficient to drive an AC powered charging circuit (52) for charging batteries associated with a modeler's transmitter (53) or receiver (54).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Equalizer Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ray Asbery
  • Patent number: 7075780
    Abstract: A support structure of a control board has a control board including a plurality of attaching holes disposed at respective corners of an imaginary polygon; a support member for supporting the control board; and a plurality of support bosses disposed on the support member, a plurality of support bosses each having a support portion in contact with one face of the control board, and an engaging portion inserted into the attaching hole and engaged with other face of the control board, wherein each of the engaging portions is formed with a split groove in a shape of a straight line opened at a front end thereof and the respective support bosses are provided at the support member by avoiding the split grooves of the support bosses disposed at two ends of straight lines connecting the corners of the imaginary polygon from being disposed on the same straight lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Assignee: Nissin Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Motoyasu Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7043543
    Abstract: A vertical-mount electrical power distribution plugstrip comprises a long, thin plugstrip body with several power outlet plugs distributed along the length of one face. A power input cord is provided at one end, and this supplies operating power to each of the power outlet plugs through individual relay control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Server Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Carrel W. Ewing, Brian P. Auclair, Andrew J. Cleveland, James P. Maskaly, Dennis W. McGlumphy, Mark J. Bigler
  • Patent number: 7005590
    Abstract: The main power service panel is provided with a special sliding gate on the face plate which can be selectively positioned to control the manual throw of adjacent circuit breaker handles for main and auxiliary power inputs fed thereto. The control is such that only one of the two circuit breakers can be conditioned for power transmittal at any one time. Accordingly, primary and auxiliary power supplies can be readily wired to associated main and auxiliary circuit breakers of the main power panel so that distribution circuit breakers of the panel can be energized in the event of failure of one of the power supplies, assuring a supply of power to the discrete distribution circuits. This selected supply to either breaker is accomplished with assurance there will be no back feed of electrical energy to the alternative supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Inventor: Angelo Willis
  • Patent number: 6987665
    Abstract: The invention provides a power supply for a plurality of signaling devices on an emergency vehicle. The power supply includes a plurality of outlets distributed along a housing. A cable raceway extends through the housing past the plurality of outlets and defines a passage through which cables can be fed to connect each of the signaling devices to a respective one of the outlets. A cable comb is supported by the power supply housing and defines a plurality of cable slots in the cable raceway, with each slot being located adjacent a respective one of the outlets. Each outlet can have an associated light-emitting device (LED) for displaying an operational status of the signaling device connected to the respective outlet. A cover can be supported on the housing for movement between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Myron F. Pavlacka, Manuel Magana
  • Patent number: 6987664
    Abstract: A finger guard for an electrical circuit breaker includes a rear plate with an opening, a guard portion extending from the plate adjacent the opening, and a removable portion, or knock-out, positioned within the opening. A further finger guard for an electrical circuit breaker includes a rear plate with an opening, a guard portion extending from the plate adjacent the opening, and opposing ramped finger grips on the outer walls of the guard portion. A further finger guard for an electrical circuit breaker includes a rear plate with an opening, and a guard portion extending from the plate adjacent the opening, the plate further including a designation holder. An electrical power distribution system with a chassis having an electrical circuit including a mount for an electrical circuit breaker and an opening providing access to the mount, includes a finger guard mounted across the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Johnsen, Carlos Cabrera, David E. Schomaker
  • Patent number: 6879057
    Abstract: An electrical distribution box for vehicles with two networks at different voltage levels, comprising centralized electronic signal and power control means, including a microprocessor and electrical protection means, arranged on printed circuit boards in a casing, electrically connected to at least one DC supply source and to parts of the vehicle, incorporating at least one voltage converter (5) inside the distribution box (1), on an independent printed circuit board (10) or in a differentiated area of a supporting plate of the control means, which board (10) or differentiated area is in a clear area of said casing, both in its upper part and in its lower part, electromagnetic screening means having been provided for the converter (5) inside the casing, and thermal dissipation means for the supporting plate of the converter (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Lear Automotive (EEDS) Spain, S.L.
    Inventors: Joan Fontanilles Piñas, Carles Borrego Bel, Jordi Bigorra Vives, Jordi Giro Roca
  • Patent number: 6870729
    Abstract: A finger guard for an electrical circuit breaker includes a rear plate with an opening, a guard portion extending from the plate adjacent the opening, and a removable portion, or knock-out, positioned within the opening. A further finger guard for an electrical circuit breaker includes a rear plate with an opening, a guard portion extending from the plate adjacent the opening, and opposing ramped finger grips on the outer walls of the guard portion. A further finger guard for an electrical circuit breaker includes a rear plate with an opening, and a guard portion extending from the plate adjacent the opening, the plate further including a designation holder. An electrical power distribution system with a chassis having an electrical circuit including a mount for an electrical circuit breaker and an opening providing access to the mount, includes a finger guard mounted across the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Johnsen, Carlos Cabrera, David E. Schomaker
  • Patent number: 6791211
    Abstract: A transfer switch for selectively connecting an auxiliary power source, such as a standby generator, to selected circuits of a building, includes double pole circuit protection as well as a unique circuit breaker and switch arrangement which can be used in either a double pole circuit or a pair of single pole circuits. The transfer switch includes a main double pole circuit breaker downstream of the power inlet, for providing double pole overcurrent protection for all circuits interconnected with the transfer switch. The transfer switch also includes a series of single pole switches and associated single pole circuit breakers, for controlling the supply of power to single pole electrical circuits. At least one additional pair of single pole switches can either be tied together for use as a double pole switch or used as two separate single pole switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: Reliance Controls Corporation
    Inventor: Michael O Flegel
  • Patent number: 6774888
    Abstract: A personal digital assistant (PDA) which includes a body portion and a keyboard adapted to be coupled to the body portion. The keyboard is a standard keyboard size when in use. The keyboard is also foldable to act as a cover for the body portion. In a preferred embodiment, the keyboard attaches directly to the PDA and when not in use acts as a cover for the display of the PDA. When the keyboard is unfolded and the PDA is placed onto a flat surface, the user is able to input information using their familiar touch-typing skills with a full-size keyboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas Basilio Genduso
  • Publication number: 20040113804
    Abstract: A power distribution panel with a chassis defining an interior with a first opening and a second opposing opening. The panel including a module with a bottom, a first face and a second face, and including a power input terminal, a plurality of power output terminals, and an electrical circuit connecting each power output terminal to the power input terminal, each circuit including a circuit protection device. The power input terminal, the power output terminals and the circuit protection devices are mounted to one of the first or second faces. The module is configured to be received through the first opening and removably mounted within the interior so that the power input terminal, the power output terminals and the circuit protection devices are accessible through one of the first and second openings when the module is mounted within the chassis. A module including power distribution components and circuitry adapted to be removably mounted within a power distribution panel chassis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Publication date: June 17, 2004
    Inventors: Carlos Cabrera, Delfino Hernandez, David J. Johnsen
  • Patent number: 6747864
    Abstract: A distribution board enabling a watt-hour meter mounted thereon to be easily replaced without interrupting the supply of primary electric power to a consumer's house is disclosed. The distribution board includes a socket terminal block having a plurality of socket terminal connectors, each having a pair of wire-connector terminals and a plug-connector terminal extending from the conjunction portion between the pair of wire-connector terminals, and a power-converting plug having a plurality of plug terminals to be connected to the plug-connector terminals of the socket terminal connectors and connected to each other by plug-connecting wires. Primary electric power from drop wires is directly transmitted to indoor power wires when the power-converting plug is coupled to the socket terminal block to cause the plug terminals to be connected to the plug-connector terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Inventor: Keun-Suk Cho
  • Patent number: 6744628
    Abstract: A multi-directional power distribution unit (PDU) provides flexibility in the configuration of a computer system, disk drive array or other enclosure. The power distribution unit may be installed in one orientation for a power feed having a first configuration (e.g., from the front of the enclosure), and may be installed in a second orientation for a power feed in a second configuration (e.g., from the rear of the enclosure). In either orientation, a set of external power connectors couples to one or more external power feeds. Depending on the orientation, either a first or second internal connector will interface with the system or enclosure (e.g., a midplane, a power supply). The PDU may include circuitry for filtering electrical power and may also include a heat sink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Sun Microsytems, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy W. Olesiewicz
  • Patent number: 6707478
    Abstract: A displaying apparatus includes a front cover, a rear cover coupled to the first cover, and an LCD panel disposed between the front cover and the rear cover. The displaying apparatus includes a slot formed on the front cover, at least one press knob disposed within the slot, a panel bracket coupled to the front cover at the rear of the LCD panel to support the LCD panel, and a main printed circuit board electrically connected to the LCD panel and supported by the panel bracket. The displaying apparatus includes a support bracket having a coupling member disposed between the front cover and the LCD panel and facing the front cover so as to be coupled to any one of the front cover, the LCD panel, and the panel bracket. A knob support is formed on one end of the coupling portion, and an on screen display PCB support is formed on another end of the coupling portion. An on screen display (OSD) printed circuit board (PCB) is supported by the OSD PCB support in a direction perpendicular to the knob support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ju-Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 6659423
    Abstract: A device for controlling actuator includes a monitor for monitoring (1) the actuators (2) and a set of conductors (3,9) connected to the monitoring (1). The device includes a single physical support (5) for at least part of the monitoring (1) and the conductors (3,9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignees: Valeo, Visteon Systemes Interieurs
    Inventors: Jean Dauvergne, Didier Barat, Andrew Nash
  • Patent number: 6657852
    Abstract: A junction box and distributor assembly includes an external connector that is mounted on a distributor device for connection with a mating companion connector that is mounted in an opening contained in a wall of the junction box, whereby remotely located sensors may be connected via the distribution device and the mating connectors with a programmable operating module contained within the junction box. In order to prevent the penetration of moisture into the junction box, a first seal is arranged about the housing opening between the distributor device and the outer surface of the housing wall. A second seal may be provided in compressed relation concentrically between the peripheral surface of the housing opening and the outer peripheral surface of the second connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2003
    Assignee: Weidmuller Interface GmbH & Co.
    Inventor: Stefan Reker
  • Patent number: 6621689
    Abstract: An interlock assembly for an electrical panel which includes a primary switch arrangement interconnected with a primary power source, and an auxiliary switch arrangement interconnected with an auxiliary power source for supplying power to the electrical panel in the event of an interruption in the primary power source. The interlock assembly includes an interlock member that is movable between first and second interlock positions, for preventing the primary and auxiliary switch arrangements from simultaneously being in the ON position, to ensure that power from only a single power source is supplied to electrical panel at any one time. The interlock assembly includes a movable interlock member interconnected with a support arrangement mounted to the electrical panel within a space defined between the primary and auxiliary switch arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Michael O. Flegel
  • Patent number: 6621688
    Abstract: An assembly for supplying vehicle subsystems associated with an instrument panel. A panel structural architecture includes a forward facing side within which are defined a series of partially recessed and interconnected channels. A junction box is secured or integrally affixed in some fashion to the structural architecture and an electrically communicable network extending from the junction box is likewise secured to surfaces of the panel structural architecture. First selected branches of the network terminate in a plurality of high current connectors extending from first locations. Second selected branches of the network terminate in a plurality of low current connectors extending from further locations. An instrument panel skin is applied over the structural architecture and incorporates electrical subsystems with input connectors matingly engageable with both the high and low current connectors associated with the structural architecture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Alcoa Fujikura Limited
    Inventor: Robert C. Burdick
  • Patent number: 6608406
    Abstract: Power distribution apparatus include a rack mountable housing, an electrical power input assembly and an electrical power output assembly including a plurality of external circuits adapted for hardwired to remote equipment and a plurality of internal circuits each adapted to receive a plug of electrical equipment and to provide power thereto. The plurality of internal circuits may include differently configured receptacles adapted to receive differently configured plugs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: S+S Power Engineering
    Inventor: Shamel A. Bersiek
  • Patent number: 6515851
    Abstract: A switch inlet unit comprising a power switch and an inlet accommodated in a case is provided. The switch and the inlet are provided on the front surface of the case body, the terminals of the switch and the inlet are connected with respect to each other, and the joint is held in the case body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Ootori, Osamu Murasawa
  • Patent number: 6515850
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a power supply control module for loads or motors, which is mounted as an addition under a main electromagnetic switch appliance (Ap) and having, in a casing (1), current paths with commutating poles controlled by an electromagnet control device and substantially characterized by the fact that it includes at the rear, means (21, 22, 23, 31, 32) capable of channelling gases flowing out of the breaker chambers of the main appliance (Ap).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Schneider Electric Industries SA
    Inventors: Bernard Fournier, Xavier Person, Jean-Marc Romillon
  • Publication number: 20030021081
    Abstract: A power distribution panel having circuit elements such as KTK and GMT fuses removably mounted to a unit housing by means of module members, thereby allowing for ease of customization of the circuit elements of the power distribution panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Publication date: January 30, 2003
    Applicant: ADC Telecommunications Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Schomaker, Carlos Arroyo Gonzales, Delfino Hernandez, Luis Manuel Sanchez, Narciso Delgado Guevara, Celsa Mora Curiel
  • Patent number: 6493859
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of routing power from a power network to one or more power service terminals within a voltage island, comprising: dividing the power network into segments; creating power service terminal to segment connections based on a first set of criteria; removing selected power service terminal to segment connections based on a second set of criteria; and selecting one power service terminal to segment connection for each the power service terminal. The first criteria is includes power drop, wire length, wire size, wiring layer restrictions and the second criteria includes electro-migration, wire length and current criteria.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Scott W. Gould, Philip S. Honsinger, Andrew D. Huber, Patrick M. Ryan
  • Publication number: 20020176222
    Abstract: A load center is upgraded by removing the existing load center and replacing it with a renovation load center. As the existing incoming and branch circuit wiring may not be sufficiently long enough to reach the proper terminations in the replacement load center, renovation terminal blocks are provided in the renovation load center adjacent the penetrations of the external wiring to which the incoming lines, and if necessary, the branch circuit wiring are connected. Cabling is then provided between the terminations on the renovation terminal blocks and the appropriate load center terminations. The renovation terminal block(s) can be housed in an auxiliary enclosure mounted adjacent to a main enclosure containing the load center interior or all of the components can be housed in a single renovation enclosure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Brendan Arthur Foley, Jeffrey Alan Doneghue
  • Patent number: 6416702
    Abstract: A circuit breaker assembly including a first and second circuit breakers each having toggle switch assemblies movable between ON and OFF positions. The toggle switch assemblies have connectors coupled thereto for preventing both circuit breakers from being in the ON position at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Wade A. Montague, David A. Reid, J. Peter McCuin, George T. Parker, Herman Tremmel, Marshall B. Hart
  • Publication number: 20020064020
    Abstract: A circuit panel chassis having a plurality of angled slots in a top surface thereof. The angled slots improving flame containment inside the circuit panel chassis while providing for cooling the circuit components of the circuit panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Publication date: May 30, 2002
    Inventors: Luis Armando Yanes, David E. Schomaker, Ronald Robert Kurth
  • Publication number: 20020057551
    Abstract: A method of preventing vibration loosening of a clamping screw 26 of a circuit protection apparatus 10 is provided. The circuit protection apparatus 10 has a conductor receiving member 28 including a conductor receiving opening 40 for receiving an electrical conductor 46 therein. The conductor receiving member 28 has an aperture 42 extending from a surface 50 thereof into communication with the conductor receiving opening 40. An overall extent of the aperture 42 includes threads. The method provides a clamping screw 26 having a threaded shaft 50. The threaded shaft 50 has a surface feature 52 in the threads thereof near an end 54 of the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Applicant: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc
    Inventors: Daniel S. Redler, Jon D. Pickens, Richard Hudson
  • Patent number: 6388881
    Abstract: In an assembling structure of a vehicle center cluster, plural electrical devices are detachably assembled to a holding member to be removed from an inside of a passenger compartment while the holding member is fixed to a dashboard. Therefore, for example, when a CD deck is removed from the center cluster into the passenger compartment among the electrical devices, only the CD deck can be removed from the holding member into the passenger compartment without removing the other electrical devices, in a fixed state of the holding member to the dashboard. Accordingly, removing operation of the electrical devices can be made simple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignees: Denso Corporation, Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Shouji Yamauchi, Noritoshi Imanaka, Kenichi Mori, Katsuharu Yokoyama, Masahiro Ichino, Kenji Nakata
  • Patent number: 6385045
    Abstract: A water-resistant switching device has an elastomeric body overmoulded to one part of the casing. The elastomeric body has a rib which co-operates with a hooked flange portion to define a space for receiving a hooked flange of another part of the casing to provide a watertight seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Valeo Electronique
    Inventor: Brian Tissington