With Circuit Breaker Arrangements Patents (Class 361/634)
  • Patent number: 8081426
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for preventing access to calibration controls includes a primary cover including a connection device, an access opening and a first through hole. The primary cover is configured to exclude access to an underlying area. The access opening is located on the primary cover to permit access to the underlying area when securing the primary cover. A shield is configured to fit over the primary cover and prevent access to the access opening. The shield includes a latch portion configured to latch on a first end portion of the primary cover and a second through hole located at a second end portion and corresponding to the first through hole of the primary cover. A security mechanism is configured to be received in the first and second through holes such that the security mechanism shows signs of tampering when unauthorized access to the underlying area is attempted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Terry Archer, Jennifer Nuckolls, Timothy Allen Dyer, Norbert Lindner
  • Publication number: 20110304958
    Abstract: A panelboard supplies electricity to multiple loads, such as lighting fixtures and/or other electrical devices via one or more high-amperage circuit breakers and one or more low-amperage circuit breakers. The panelboard includes one or more vertical busbars and one or more horizontal busbars coupled together in a single housing. The one or more horizontal busbars are coupled to a main input breaker that receives electricity from a source. The main input breaker distributes the electricity to the horizontal busbars. The horizontal busbars distribute the electricity to the high-amperage circuit breakers coupled thereto and to the vertical busbars. The vertical busbars distribute the electricity to the low-amperage circuit breakers coupled thereto.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Applicant: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven W. Dozier
  • Patent number: 8040663
    Abstract: An interlock arrangement includes a pair of slidable lockouts operatively associated with utility and generator side switches of an electrical panel. Together with either an interlinked member or a rocker lockout, the interlock arrangement sequences manual switching of the utility and generator side switches according to a pre-defined switching sequence, such as a seven step sequence or a five step sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Reliance Controls Corporation
    Inventor: Neil A. Czarnecki
  • Publication number: 20110222211
    Abstract: Electrical circuit breakers in an electrical panelboard are equipped with tie-down devices to secure the circuit breakers to the panelboard. Each circuit breaker includes a standard housing or case having a raised portion that forms a pair of end walls and a slot at the base of each of the end walls. The panelboard includes mounts for attaching the tie-down devices to the panelboard. Each tie-down device includes (1) a breaker-attachment portion adapted to be mounted on the circuit breaker housing around the raised portion and having a pair of mounting hooks adapted to fit into the slots for attaching the tie-down device to the circuit breaker housing, and (2) a panelboard attachment portion extending beyond the circuit breaker housing for attachment to the panelboard mount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Applicant: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Randy L. Siebels, William J. Broghammer
  • Patent number: 7957122
    Abstract: A load center is equipped with a neutral phase conductive rail with breaker mounting and retention features providing automatic neutral connection for a plug-on mounted AFI and/or GFI circuit breaker. Breakers may be designed to have specific interfaces to the breaker mounting and retention features of the load center rails. The neutral rail may have two pieces including a breaker undercut positioning rail shorted to a standard neutral rail, or a neutral rail may be designed to have all mounting features integrated therewith. The new panel is compatible with non-AFI and non-GFI breakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Jeffrey O. Sharp
  • Publication number: 20110080693
    Abstract: A power distribution unit is provided for receiving diversified three-phase power or single-phase power. The power distribution unit includes a separable power cord and a separable wiring block. The separable power cord is used for receiving electric energy of input power. The separable wiring block is electrically connected with the power cord for providing at least one connection configuration. The connection configuration provided by one side of the wiring block comprises a delta configuration, a Y configuration or a parallel configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Applicant: DELTA ELECTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: Sheng-Nan Tsai, Shin-Chang Wu, Yung-Sheng Yeh, Jia-Li Tsai, Chuang-Huan Chiu
  • Patent number: 7889480
    Abstract: A panelboard mounts and electrically connects to a plurality of circuit breakers. The panelboard includes a central body portion having a top surface. At least one bus bar is positioned within the central body portion. A pair of opposed legs extend the longitudinal length of the central body portion. A plurality of wells extend downwardly from the top surface and have prongs at the bottom of each well. The prongs are electrically connected to the bus bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: ABB Inc.
    Inventor: Dean S Latham
  • Patent number: 7869194
    Abstract: At least one embodiment of the invention provides that, for a closing apparatus for a part rack withdrawable via V-shaped rod assemblies, the closing apparatus includes at least one pin formed on rod assemblies or as part of them, each pin engaging in a slot in an actuating element. Owing to the use of the slots, the actuating element can be formed as a rigid body, with the result that no frictional forces need to be overcome when inserting a circuit breaker into a withdrawable-part rack with the closing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the invention. With the closing apparatus according to at least one embodiment of the invention, a locking element can have a particularly simple design: it can be guided in the actuating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellscahft
    Inventors: Erhard Deylitz, Pierre Lamoth
  • Patent number: 7869192
    Abstract: An electrical switching apparatus mounting apparatus includes a base with a planar portion having a first side and an opposite second side. A number of first adjustable members are coupled to the opposite second side. Each of the first adjustable members includes a first end and an opposite second end. A number of second adjustable members are coupled transverse to the first adjustable members and include a first end and an opposite second end. At least one of the first end and the opposite second end of at least one of the first adjustable members and the second adjustable members is adjustable generally toward or generally away from the base. At least one of the first end and the opposite second end of the at least one of the first adjustable members and the second adjustable members is coupled to a number of walls of a switchgear enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Mark W. Jacobsen, Jaymie L. Davenport, Barry T. Rambo
  • Patent number: 7864509
    Abstract: An electrical distribution panel includes an enclosure, a first power input, a first circuit interrupter including a first terminal electrically connected to the first power input and a second terminal, a first bus electrically connected to the second terminal, a plurality of second circuit interrupters powered from the first bus, a second bus electrically connectable to the first bus through one of the second circuit interrupters, and a number of third circuit interrupters powered from the second bus. The first bus and a number of the second circuit interrupters power a number of first loads. The second bus and the number of third circuit interrupters power a number of different second loads. The electrical distribution panel is converted for operation with a second power input to power the second bus. The second power input receives power from at least one of a separately derived system, and a portable generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Scot E. Remmert
  • Publication number: 20100328850
    Abstract: An electrical distribution panel includes an enclosure, a first power input, a first circuit interrupter including a first terminal electrically connected to the first power input and a second terminal, a first bus electrically connected to the second terminal, a plurality of second circuit interrupters powered from the first bus, a second bus electrically connectable to the first bus through one of the second circuit interrupters, and a number of third circuit interrupters powered from the second bus. The first bus and a number of the second circuit interrupters power a number of first loads. The second bus and the number of third circuit interrupters power a number of different second loads. The electrical distribution panel is converted for operation with a second power input to power the second bus. The second power input receives power from at least one of a separately derived system, and a portable generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Publication date: December 30, 2010
    Inventor: SCOT E. REMMERT
  • Patent number: 7852192
    Abstract: The over-current protection device of the present invention can be used for over-current protection to PCM. The over-current protection device comprises a PTC device, at least one insulation layer; at least one electrode layer and at least one conductive channel. The insulation layer is placed on a surface of the PTC device, and the electrode layer is formed on the insulation layer afterwards. As a result, the insulation layer is between the electrode layer and the PTC device. The electrode layer serves as a surface of the over-current protection device. The conductive channel electrically connects the PTC device and the electrode layer. In an embodiment, the conductive channel is a blind hole penetrating through the electrode layer and the insulation layer and ending at the surface of the PTC device, and the surface of the blind hole is coated with a conductive layer to electrically connect the PTC device and the electrode layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Polytronics Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Ching Han Yu, David Shau Chew Wang, Pao Hsuan Chen
  • Patent number: 7813110
    Abstract: An electrical enclosure for circuit breakers includes a busbar with a plurality of apertures equidistantly positioned along a length of the busbar so that insulating inserts and corresponding busbar connectors can be attached to the busbar to receive variously sized circuit breakers having different widths equal to an integer multiple of the center-to-center distance between the equidistantly positioned apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Inventor: Willard J. Rezac
  • Publication number: 20100238611
    Abstract: Embodiments provide a low-profile, electronic circuit breaker. The electronic circuit breaker includes a housing containing first and second electrical branches coupled to respective first and second load terminals, and an electronic processing circuit within the housing adapted to monitor an electrical condition of the first and second electrical branches, wherein a maximum transverse width (Wt) of the housing is limited to occupy only a single standard breaker panelboard location. Circuit breakers including triggering mechanisms and tripping units are also disclosed. System and method aspects are provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: John DeBoer, Brian Timothy McCoy, Guang Yang
  • Patent number: 7750259
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a single-pole or multi-pole switch to be used preferably in low-voltage systems. The switch (1) comprises an outer casing (2) containing for each pole at least one fixed contact (10) and one mobile contact (20) that can be coupled to/uncoupled from one another. The mobile contacts (20) are housed in appropriate seats (25) provided on a mobile element (50). The switch (1) moreover comprises an energy-accumulation control mechanism (60), operatively connected to the mobile element (50) to enable its movement. The switch (1) according to the invention is advantageously provided with means of axial support operatively connected to the mobile element (50) in order to support the gravitational thrusts that are generated along the axis of rotation of the mobile element itself when said axis is inclined with respect to a substantially horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: ABB S.p.A.
    Inventors: Stefano Besana, Gustavo Brignoli, Federico Gamba
  • Patent number: 7751180
    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: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Schomaker, Carlos Arroyo Gonzalez, Delfino Hernandez, Luis Manuel Sanchez Aguilar, Narciso Delgado Guevara, Celsa Mora Curiel
  • Patent number: 7663867
    Abstract: A circuit breaker apparatus is provided and includes a circuit breaker, having a housing surface perpendicular to a plane of a front side of the circuit breaker and internal components, a terminal block structurally coupled to the housing surface, first terminal housings arrayed on the terminal block to each support first components and to be receptive of second terminal housings each of which supports second components, at least some of which are electrically coupled to the internal components, to be electrically coupled to at least some of the first components, and an access block. The access block is disposed on the terminal block and has apertures defined therein to provide for front-side access to the first terminal housings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mahesh Jaywant Rane, Simhadri Ramalingeswara Rao Gupta, Janakiraman Narayanan, Pankaj Agrawal
  • Patent number: 7599171
    Abstract: A load center includes an enclosure, a first power input, a second power input, a first circuit breaker having a line terminal electrically connected to the first power input and a load terminal, a first bus electrically connected to the load terminal, a number of independent second circuit breakers powered from the first bus, a second bus, a number of independent third circuit breakers powered from the second bus, and a transfer switch having a first input electrically connected to the first bus, a second input electrically connected to the second power input, and an output electrically connected to the second bus. The transfer switch selectively electrically connects one of its first and second inputs to its output. The first bus and the second circuit breakers power only a number of non-critical loads. The second bus and the third circuit breakers power only a number of critical loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Scot E. Remmert
  • 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: 7578711
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a lug coupler that comprises a set of bus bars. Each of the set of bus bars can be adapted to be releasably attached to a corresponding terminal of a set of terminals of a circuit breaker. The system can comprise a set of studs adapted to engage a corresponding set of apertures defined by an end connector of one of a set of electrical leads adapted to be electrically coupled to the lug coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Kristopher Scott Robinson
  • 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: 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: 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: 20090040691
    Abstract: A panelboard mounts and electrically connects to a plurality of circuit breakers. The panelboard includes a central body portion having a top surface. At least one bus bar is positioned within the central body portion. A pair of opposed legs extend the longitudinal length of the central body portion. A plurality of wells extend downwardly from the top surface and have prongs at the bottom of each well. The prongs are electrically connected to the bus bar.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 12, 2009
    Applicant: ABB INC.
    Inventor: Dean S. Latham
  • Patent number: 7462416
    Abstract: A secondary battery having an improved electrical connection structure of a secondary protective device by positioning a thermo-breaker in a protective device groove, in order to improve the stability of the secondary battery while minimizing the occupation of the inner space of the can. The secondary battery includes an electrode assembly having positive and negative electrode tabs. A can contains the electrode assembly therein. A cap assembly has an insulated electrode terminal and a cap plate for sealing the top opening of the can. A protective device groove is formed on the bottom surface of the cap plate. A thermo-breaker is seated in the protective device groove while being connected between the first electrode tab and the electrode terminal. When the temperature inside the battery reaches a predetermined value, the bimetal loses contact and the electrical current inside the battery is interrupted, avoiding overcharge/over-discharge or explosion of the battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Samsung SDI Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jun Ho Kim
  • Patent number: 7460360
    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: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Schomaker, Carlos Arroyo Gonzalez, Delfino Hernandez, Luis Manuel Sanchez Aguilar, Narciso Delgado Guevara, Celsa Mora Curiel
  • Publication number: 20080278890
    Abstract: An electric power distribution panel includes a plurality of slots for supplying power to circuit breakers, a first input bus for coupling to a first power source, a second input bus for coupling to a second power source, and a plurality of circuit breaker carriers. Each carrier is positioned in one of the slots and selectably movable in its slot between a first position for coupling a circuit breaker to the first input bus, and a second position for coupling a circuit breaker to the second input bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2007
    Publication date: November 13, 2008
    Inventor: Raymond A. Mann
  • Patent number: 7417849
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an electric load center including a basepan with a plurality of fastener devices for securing bus bars, neutral bars, and a variety of other electrical components to the basepan. Each fastener device comprises two independent structures, the first structure a self aligning support post and the second structure is an engaging lock. Both the self aligning support post and the engaging lock project away from the basepan first surface. The self aligning support post consists of a plurality of angled surfaces to facilitate assembly of the electrical component to the basepan first surface. The self aligning support post also contains an interior cavity that houses the engaging lock. The engaging lock has a first surface with an inclined angle with respect to the basepan and a second surface with a zero angle with respect to the basepan to facilitate retention of the bus bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Scott Dixon, Kristopher Scott Robinson, Jeffrey Kenton Hudgins, Jr.
  • 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: 7414829
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a mounting base adapted to be snapably coupled to a wiring lug. The wiring lug can comprise a prong, which can be adapted to electrically couple a circuit breaker to the wiring lug. The mounting base can define a chamber adapted to receive the wiring lug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Scott Dixon, Kristopher Scott Robinson
  • Patent number: 7408766
    Abstract: A power supply system for supplying electrical power to at least one load includes a base plate, a support rail and a power supply module fastened to the base plate, at least one bus bar module, and a rail mounting device for mounting the bus bar module on the support rail. The rail mounting device includes conductor members for supplying power from the power supply module to bus bars contained within the bus bar modules, respectively. A first plug has contacts that engage contacts of each of the bus bars of the bus bar module via access slots contained in the cover member thereof, thereby to supply three-phase power to a load such, as a motor, via a heavy-duty power switch and a circuit breaker that are both mounted on the base plate, and associated second and third connecting plugs. Single-phase power is supplied to an auxiliary load, such as an electrical appliance, from two or more bus bars of the bus bar module via a fourth plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jens Oesterhaus, Jörg Sheer, Walter Hanning, Daniel Brugger, Max Hufschmid, Paul Hug
  • Patent number: 7403373
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments comprise a circuit breaker mounting plate that can comprise a prong adapted to receive a clip. The prong can define a first longitudinal axis that extends in a first direction and in an opposing second direction. The prong can be adapted to receive a spring. The clip can comprise a latch. The latch can be adapted, via the spring, to releasably attach a circuit breaker to the circuit breaker mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Timothy McCoy, Thomas William Holland
  • Patent number: 7372692
    Abstract: An interior assembly for a load center includes a base member disposed at or about a panel member of the load center housing, a first bus bar assembly disposed on the base member, and a first insulating member overlaying the first bus bar assembly and being coupled to the base member. A first portion of the first insulating member receives circuit breakers of the load center, and a second portion receives a second bus bar assembly. A second insulating member overlays the second bus bar assembly and is coupled to the second portion of the first insulating member. A neutral bus bar is coupled to the second insulating member. A fastening mechanism fastens the interior assembly to the panel member. The base member, first and second bus bar assemblies, first and second insulating members, and neutral bus bar are secured together without the use of separate fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2008
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael J. Ranta, James L. Gehlbach
  • Patent number: 7324332
    Abstract: An electrical enclosure is disclosed. The enclosure increases the number of electrical outlets available to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2008
    Inventor: Brent Shelton
  • Patent number: 7304834
    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: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: David E. Schomaker, Carlos Arroyo Gonzalez, Delfino Hernandez, Luis Manuel Sanchez Aguilar, Narciso Delgado Guevara, Celsa Mora Curiel
  • Patent number: 7298606
    Abstract: A multi-pole mounting base for interfacing a circuit breaker and/or circuit interrupter with an electrical panel is disclosed. The electrical panel has an interior configured to receive remote operated circuit breakers (ROCBs) in signal communication with a communication board internal to the electrical panel, non-ROCBs, and ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCls). The mounting base includes a unitary support platform assemblable to the interior of the electrical panel and having first mounting regions with common structure configured to receive any one of the ROCBs, the non-ROCBs, and the GFCls. The support platform also has second mounting regions configured to receive the communication board. The support platform is configured to assemble adjacent to another support platform in the electrical panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Andre Joseph M'Sadoques, Joseph G. Nagy, Dennis Zuffelato, Yatin Vilas Newase
  • Patent number: 7295427
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a load center comprising a basepan with fastener devices for securing bus bars, neutral bars, and a variety of other electrical components to the basepan. Each fastener device comprises a self aligning support post flush with two extending side walls and an arm with engaging lock. The self aligning support post and the two extending side walls are integrally formed where the self aligning support post projects away from the basepan first surface. The self aligning support post consists of at least one angled surface to facilitate assembly of the electrical component to the first surface of the basepan. The engaging lock has a first surface with an inclined angle with respect to the basepan and a second surface angled at zero degrees with respect to the basepan to facilitate securing the electrical component to basepan first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Emily Elizabeth Muhlberger, Roland Joseph Montalbo
  • Patent number: 7286340
    Abstract: An adapter is for mounting an electrical switching apparatus, such as a circuit breaker, on the back panel of an enclosure, such as a switchgear cabinet. The back panel has at least one aperture. The adapter includes a first end portion coupled at or about the aperture of the back panel, an engaging portion engaging and securing the circuit breaker to the adapter, a fastener, and a second end portion disposed distal from the first end portion and including an elongated slot. The elongated slot receives the fastener in order to couple the adapter to the back panel when the fastener is fastened, while enabling adjustment of the adapter and the circuit breaker coupled thereto, with respect to the back panel, when the fastener is unfastened. The first end portion, the engaging portion and the second end portion form a single piece adapter. An enclosure assembly is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Syed M. Karim, James L. Gehlbach
  • Patent number: 7256984
    Abstract: The present invention provides a reconfigurable power distribution panel, a power distribution system, a method for reconfiguring a power distribution panel, and a method for manufacturing a reconfigurable power distribution panel. The reconfigurable distribution panel, among other elements, may include a first bus bar having a first plurality of contact points thereon and a plurality of circuit protection locations associated therewith and a second bus bar located proximate the first bus bar and having a second plurality of contact points thereon, the second plurality of contact points having the same plurality of circuit protection locations associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2007
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Minchul Kim, Keith Gibson, Keith Leicht
  • Patent number: 7253358
    Abstract: A grounding apparatus for a distribution device having a functional element and a grounding contact point includes a grounding rail having opposed end sections provided with a holding part for fitting the grounding rail to the functional element. An electrically conductive contact spring on each of the end sections extends outwardly beyond the holding part to make contact with the grounding contact point. A safety plug for use with the grounding apparatus includes an overvoltage protection device connected to a conductive contact tongue for contacting an electrical cable connected to the functional element. The overvoltage protection device has a grounding electrode and a conductive fitting in electrical contact with the grounding electrode is provided with an insulation-displacement terminal for connecting the safety plug to the grounding apparatus. A handling apparatus having a base body with a retaining groove is provided for installing the grounding apparatus to the distribution device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2007
    Assignee: CCS Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Jurgen Matthies, Mike Breuer
  • Patent number: 7245480
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a load center comprising a basepan with a plurality of fastener devices for securing bus bars, neutral bars, and a variety of other electrical components to the basepan. Each fastener device comprises a self aligning support post and an arm with engaging lock affixed thereto. The self aligning support post projects away from the basepan first surface. The self aligning support post consists of a plurality of angled surfaces to facilitate assembly of the electrical component to the first surface of the basepan. The engaging lock has a first surface with an inclined angle with respect to the basepan and a second surface angled at zero degrees with respect to the basepan to facilitate securing the electrical component to basepan first surface. The fastening device may also include a swing snap and an angled arm for securing electrical components to basepan first surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Scott Dixon, Kristopher Scott Robinson
  • Patent number: 7224578
    Abstract: A control panel for a portable electric generator. The control panel includes three distinct zones having logically organized switches and outlets. The first zone includes those switches used most frequently. The second zone includes a plurality of 120 VAC electrical outlets and at least one 120/240 VAC outlet. The 120 VAC outlets are separated from the 120/240 VAC outlet by a horizontally arranged, rocker style voltage selector switch for selecting either 120/240 VAC or 120 VAC operation. A third zone includes an auto throttle control for controlling an engine of the generator. The placement and organization of the switches and electrical outlets within clearly defined zones reduces the possibility of the operator unintentionally selecting the wrong outlet for use or unintentionally selecting the wrong switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: John E Buck, Peter E Morris
  • Patent number: 7209343
    Abstract: An adjustable riser assembly for retrofitting an existing panel board enclosure with a replacement interior has a pair of base members secured to the rear wall of the enclosure with base flanges projecting forward. A floating member has end pieces with floating flanges that overlap and are joined to the base flanges by fasteners that engage selected ones of a second set of holes in each floating flange aligned along a first linear axis and a first set of holes in each base flange arranged in two rows each parallel to a second linear axis that is oblique to the first linear axis to adjust the height of the riser assembly. One or two planar members extending between the end pieces have a fourth set of holes that can be selectively aligned with a third set of holes in the end pieces for engagement by second fasteners to adjust the length of the riser assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Scot E. Remmert, Matthew D. Occhipinti, Julie C. Jurgens
  • Patent number: 7057883
    Abstract: A conducting element for shunting an electric power supply from a main conductor to an accessory device operatively associated with a circuit breaker, whose particularity consists of the fact that it comprises a contoured body that is meant to be arranged in a seat on the body of the circuit breaker in which a terminal for connection to the main conductor is arranged, the contoured body comprising at least one first surface that is suitable to be rested against a wall of the seat on the circuit breaker body and a second surface that protrudes at right angles from the first surface and is suitable to operatively couple to an additional conducting component that can be connected electrically to the accessory device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: ABB Service S.r.l.
    Inventor: Stefano Besana
  • Patent number: 7027293
    Abstract: A breaker distribution module is disclosed. The breaker distribution module essentially includes an insulation rod, a plurality of output terminals, a plurality of input busbars and a plurality of breakers. The insulation rod is composed of a plurality of insulation blocks. The output terminals are disposed on the insulation rod. The breakers connect to the output terminals and the input busbars. Each of the breakers corresponds to one of the output terminals. In addition, the insulation rod can also be manufactured as an integrative unit, and the breaker distribution module further includes a connection busbar electrically coupled to the input busbars. The design of the pluralities of insulation blocks decreases the fabricating cost. In addition, the connection busbar is able to change the output voltage disposition of the breaker distribution module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: DELTA Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ta-Jung Yang, Bi-Jen Liu
  • Patent number: 7005996
    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: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Carlos Cabrera, Delfino Hernandez, David J. Johnsen
  • Patent number: 6801425
    Abstract: A control panel for a portable electric generator. The control panel includes three distinct zones having logically organized switches and outlets. The first zone includes those switches used most frequently. The second zone includes a plurality of 120VAC electrical outlets and at least one 120/240VAC outlet. The 120VAC outlets are separated from the 120/240VAC outlet by a horizontally arranged, rocker style voltage selector switch for selecting either 120/240 VAC or 120VAC operation. A third zone includes an auto throttle control for controlling an engine of the generator. The placement and organization of the switches and electrical outlets within clearly defined zones reduces the possibility of the operator unintentionally selecting the wrong outlet for use or unintentionally selecting the wrong switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: John E. Buck, Peter E. Morris
  • Publication number: 20040061993
    Abstract: A conducting element for shunting an electric power supply from a main conductor to an accessory device operatively associated with a circuit breaker, whose particularity consists of the fact that it comprises a contoured body that is meant to be arranged in a seat on the body of the circuit breaker in which a terminal for connection to the main conductor is arranged, the contoured body comprising at least one first surface that is suitable to be rested against a wall of the seat on the circuit breaker body and a second surface that protrudes at right angles from the first surface and is suitable to operatively couple to an additional conducting component that can be connected electrically to the accessory device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 1, 2004
    Inventor: Stefano Besana
  • Patent number: 6707256
    Abstract: A self contained multiple dimming channel package includes a housing with a main power circuit board supported on its bottom wall and a control circuit board extending laterally and vertically to baffle air flow through the housing. A cross flow cooling fan forces air through an opening in the control board and across power switching modules and toroidal chokes mounted to the main board. Each power switching module includes a heat sink with fins parallel to the air flow, and the chokes are mounted in rows with their central openings aligned with the air flow. The power switching modules include circuits attached to the heat sinks with terminals releasably plugged into mating connectors on the main board. Circuit breaker switches are snapped into place in the housing. The front corners of the housing are provided with integral mounting bracket and handle members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Electronic Theatre Controls, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley J. Brunker, Joseph W. Garvey, Eric W. Suomi, John P. Thurk
  • Patent number: 6680842
    Abstract: A front mount circuit breaker assembly for circuit breakers of different dimensions that are removably mounted to modular circuit breaker holder members. Elongated contacts extend from the terminals on the back of the circuit breakers to the front. The holder members have a through portion between the two ends. Below the two ends and inwardly, a supporting surface is defined for supporting electrical contacts where the distal ends of the elongated contacts are removably mounted to provide the electrical connection for the device. These connections have been brought to the front. The elongated contacts can be made of different dimensions that cooperate with those of the circuit breaker. The holder members are banked together and removably mounted over a cooperating longitudinal rib that is received within a bay cut out defined on the flat bottom wall of the holder members in one of the embodiments. Another embodiment includes outwardly extending flanges for ready mounting to a panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Pedro R. Pelaez, J. Thomas Johnston