Abstract: Disclosed is a modular circuit system for use in a wiring system. The modular circuit system includes a circuit box and a fitting. The circuit box includes fitting prong receptacles that are in electrical communication with ground, neutral and hot wires from the wiring system. The fitting includes a plurality of prongs configured for insertion into the fitting prong receptacles of the circuit box. The insertion of the fitting prongs into the fitting prong receptacles places the fitting in electrical communication with circuit box. The modularity of the circuit box and fitting permit the exchange of various fittings into the circuit box.

Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services unit for medical care facilities. A housing is supported inside the wall. The housing is divided longitudinally into front and rear chambers. The service outlet cabinet and gas conduits are mounted in the front chamber. The rear chamber is divided into multiple raceways for the electrical wires. The top of the housing is above the ceiling, and a junction box is mounted on the front of the housing near the top so that it extends beyond the wallboard and above the ceiling. This allows the wallboard to be installed around the cabinet and the junction box before or after gas and electrical connections are completed. Because there are no external wiring conduits, the unit is easier to ship. Additionally, the narrow footprint allows the unit to be placed adjacent another structure in the wall or in a corner, increasing the placement choices in the room.

Abstract: A multiplex electrical receptacle adapted for receiving at least a pair of power cords, such that the ground prongs of the power cords are directed outward from the center of the multiplex electrical receptacle in a “grounds out” configuration. The electrical receptacle of this invention includes an electrical outlet receptacle having a receptacle body, a conductive mounting strap, a conductive live blade receiving assembly, a conductive neutral blade receiving assembly, and a non-conductive housing.

Abstract: A modular wiring system comprising a functional unit and a wiring unit. There is also a system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner. This system can be formed from at least one locking prong comprised of electrically conductive material. When the functional unit is coupled to the wiring unit, the locking prong is both electrically and physically coupled to the functional unit at a first end and to the wiring unit at a second end. Alternatively, or in addition, the system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner can include at least one flange coupled to the functional unit and at least one flange coupled to the wiring unit. These flanges operate such that when the functional unit and the wiring unit are coupled together, they are rotated to form a locking connection between the flange on the functional unit and the flange on the wiring unit.

Abstract: An enclosure for an electrical receptacle includes walls having one or more recesses for receiving associated electrical conductors. The recesses may be covered by at least a first membrane enclosing the recess. The conductors may be manually inserted through the membrane wherein the membrane and/or the recess is self-sealing to automatically encapsulate the girth of the associated electrical conductors.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring device for use in an ambient environment. The device includes a cover assembly characterized by a perimeter defining a user-accessible front face portion of the wiring device. The cover assembly includes at least one user-accessible control feature disposed therein. A body member is connected to the cover assembly. A circuit arrangement is disposed in the body member, at least a portion of the circuit arrangement being in operative communication with the at least one user-accessible control feature. A gasket structure is integrated into the cover assembly and disposed under the front face portion to substantially seal the circuit arrangement from the ambient environment. The gasket structure includes at least one gasket feature coupling the at least one user-accessible control feature and the at least a portion of the circuit arrangement.

Abstract: A receptacle includes a housing with a face member coupled to a base. A mounting bridge with first and second sides is connected to the base by a bottom member extending along a back surface of the base. The mounting bridge includes at least one substantially L-shaped tab formed on the first side of the bridge engaging a front surface of the base remote from the back surface. An upright post located towards the center of the bridge has a circular opening and a plurality of barbs disposed along its outer edges. Snaps protrude from the first and second ends of the base to engage apertures in the first and second sides of the mounting bridge.

Abstract: A unique arrangement includes duplex receptacle outlet providing two voltages. A first power wire supplying a first voltage is connected to the receptacle supplying a higher voltage. A second power wire is connected to both receptacles, and a neutral wire is connected to the receptacle supplying a lower voltage. In this manner, a standard electrical outlet need only be modified such that the receptacle has its plug interface modified to receive a standard higher voltage.

Abstract: An electrical connector (100) has a first end for fitting with another connector and a second end for connecting to a board. The connector comprises an insulative housing (1), a number of contacts (2) and a metal shield (3) enclosing the insulative housing. The insulative housing includes a tongue plate (11) with a number of passageways (110) defined therein for receiving the contacts. The contacts are arranged side by side in the first end and arranged in three parallel rows in the second end. The contacts include signal contact pairs (21) and grounding contacts (22) disposed adjacent to and separating the signal contact pairs. Each signal contact pair includes a first signal contact and a second signal contact being substantially in equal length of the first signal contact. The signal contact pairs have matched impedance for transmitting high-speed signals, thereby canceling any cross talk therebetween.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant device including a housing having a first surface and a second surface; and one or more covers positioned on the first surface of the housing, wherein the first surface includes at least two angled surfaces for receiving the one or more covers to create a securedly fixed connection, and wherein the one or more covers are securedly fixed to the housing via a snapping device.

Abstract: A surface mount power outlet for connecting to a plug includes a cover having a fin disposed on an outer surface and a substantially circular face with a plurality of slots for receiving a plug. The cover also has a substantially arcuate body disposed below the face, an open back, and a pocket on an inner surface adjacent the fin. A base having a base plate with a shape corresponding to the open back includes a tab protruding from the upper surface for matching up with the pocket when aligned with the fin to complete a rock and lock attachment. The configuration of the cover apertures dictates whether the power outlet accommodates a 30 amp or a 50 amp power receptacle.

Abstract: A wiring arrangement for interconnecting an alternating current power source to a receptacle within a motor vehicle includes a first wire harness having a current rating and a second wire harness having a similar current rating. A coupling mechanism electrically interconnects the first and second wire harnesses of similar current ratings. The coupling mechanism restricts interconnection of wire harnesses having dissimilar current ratings.

Abstract: A multiplex electrical receptacle adapted for receiving at least a pair of power cords, such that the ground prongs of the power cords are directed outward from the center of the multiplex electrical receptacle in a “grounds out” configuration. The electrical receptacle of this invention includes an electrical outlet receptacle having a receptacle body, a conductive mounting strap, a conductive live blade receiving assembly, a conductive neutral blade receiving assembly, and a non-conductive housing.

Abstract: An electrical box is mounted on a wall stud, and a wiring panel is installed within the electrical box so as to partition the interior of the electrical box into a user inaccessible wiring compartment and a user accessible module compartment. A protective cover is attached to the wiring panel so as to protect the wiring panel during a makeup phase of wall panel installation and painting. After the makeup phase, the protective cover is removed from the wiring panel and a module having a user operable electrical function is mounted to the wiring panel within the user accessible module compartment.

Abstract: A processor assembly includes a computer processor, a voltage converter, and a converter-power connector. A carrier structure holds these components in rigid relationship with each other.

Abstract: A modular wiring system comprising a functional unit and a wiring unit. There is also a system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner. This system can be formed from at least one locking prong comprised of electrically conductive material. When the functional unit is coupled to the wiring unit, the locking prong is both electrically and physically coupled to the functional unit at a first end and to the wiring unit at a second end. Alternatively, or in addition, the system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner can include at least one flange coupled to the functional unit and at least one flange coupled to the wiring unit. These flanges operate such that when the functional unit and the wiring unit are coupled together, they are rotated to form a locking connection between the flange on the functional unit and the flange on the wiring unit.

Abstract: A modular wiring system comprising a functional unit and a wiring unit. There is also a system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner. This system can be formed from at least one locking prong comprised of electrically conductive material. When the functional unit is coupled to the wiring unit, the locking prong is both electrically and physically coupled to the functional unit at a first end and to the wiring unit at a second end. Alternatively, or in addition, the system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner can include at least one flange coupled to the functional unit and at least one flange coupled to the wiring unit. These flanges operate such that when the functional unit and the wiring unit are coupled together, they are rotated to form a locking connection between the flange on the functional unit and the flange on the wiring unit.

Abstract: A contact termination member for an electrical receptacle is provided that electrically and mechanically secures an inserted wire to the electrical receptacle. The contact termination member has a base with a serrated portion. A spring arm connected to the base is adapted to bias the inserted wire against the serrated portion of the base to electrically and mechanically secure the inserted wire to the electrical receptacle.

Abstract: An electrical receptacle is disclosed, which is configured to fit and mount into an outlet box and has a front panel configured to receive different internationally standardized plug pin arrangements.

Abstract: The present invention provides a GFCI that not only has ground fault protection, but also is capable of providing reverse wiring protection as well as detection of end of the service life of the GFCI by way of utilizing an end of life detection control circuit in connection with the reset button. In addition, the GFCI of the present invention provides a forcible mechanical tripping assembly by way of utilizing the test button. Finally, the present invention provides method for detecting whether the service life of the GFCI has ended.

Abstract: A wiring device is provided with three different ways in which the bared end of an electrical conductor can be coupled to the contacts inside the body of a wiring device. A clamping plate is placed upon the threaded body of a terminal screw. In a first arrangement the bared end is formed about the terminal screw and trapped between the head of the terminal screw and a first surface of the clamping plate which forces the conductor into firm contact with the first surface of the clamping plate. In another arrangement the straight bared end of the conductor is trapped between a second surface of the clamping plate and a contact plate. The movement of the conductor and clamping plate is controlled by the terminal screw. Apertures are placed in the bottom of the device housing adjacement the contacts in the housing. A contact arm, formed as a one-way clutch grips the straight bared end of a conductor to make contact with the contacts of the device but prevents withdrawal of the conductor.

Abstract: A cord for use with duplex receptacles that have first and second receptacles. The cord includes first and second sets of prongs insertable into the duplex receptacles to receive independent low-voltage electrical signals, and first and second receptacles connected in circuit to the first and second sets of prongs to deliver the independent low-voltage signals.

Abstract: A wiring module adapted to mount within an electrical box has a functional side and an opposite wiring side. The functional side has sockets adapted to removably connect with a functional module. A terminal set provides a conductive portion of the sockets and is adapted to terminate a power cable. A shield is disposed proximate the wiring side so as to seal the terminal set.

Abstract: An Illuminated electrical plug adapter assembly (202) utilizing an Illuminating module assembly (201) comprising Light emitting diode (106), Controlling means (104) and Battery (103), removably contained within Adapter body (135). The Illuminated electrical plug adapter (202) is designed for attachment onto the plug of an existing power cord for the purpose of providing illumination while attaching the plug to an electrical receptacle. Illuminating module assembly (201B) may also be contained within Wall mount transformer case (143). The light emitting diode (106) is positioned to illuminate an electrical receptacle to provide a lighted and clear view, enabling user to safely and accurately connect the plug to the receptacle.

Abstract: The present invention is a protection device that is coupled to a power source in an electric power distribution system. The protection device is configured to protect a portion of the power distribution system from at least one fault condition. The device includes line terminals configured to be coupled to the power source when a proper wiring condition is effected. A receptacle member includes receptacle openings configured to accommodate plug contact blades. Receptacle contacts are disposed in the receptacle member and coupled to the line terminals. An electrical connection is established between the receptacle contacts and the line terminals. At least one protective shutter is movable between a closed position and an open position. The at least one protective shutter is disposed between the receptacle openings and the receptacle contacts in the closed position to prevent the plug blades from making contact with the receptacle contacts. A mis-wiring sensor is coupled to the line terminals.

Abstract: An electrical receptacle, which includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion coupled to the first housing portion. An electrical device is positioned between the first and second housing portions. The terminal has a base and a first protrusion and a second protrusion extending transverse to the base. The first and second protrusions are on opposite sides of the terminal. A clamp is located adjacent to the terminal and positioned between the first and second protrusions and is adapted to couple an electrical wire to the terminal. A fastening device extends through the clamp and is adapted to rotate relative to the terminal. When rotated, the clamp engages at least one of the first and second protrusions on the terminal to limit rotation of the clamp relative to the terminal, thereby preventing separation of the housing.

Abstract: A wiring device is provided with three different ways in which the bared end of an electrical conductor can be coupled to the contacts inside the body of a wiring device. A clamping plate is placed upon the threaded body of a terminal screw. In a first arrangement the bared end is formed about the terminal screw and trapped between the head of the terminal screw and a first surface of the clamping plate which forces the conductor into firm contact with the first surface of the clamping plate. In another arrangement the straight bared end of the conductor is trapped between a second surface of the clamping plate and a contact plate. The movement of the conductor and clamping plate is controlled by the terminal screw. Apertures are placed in the bottom of the device housing adjacement the contacts in the housing. A contact arm, formed as a one-way clutch grips the straight bared end of a conductor to make contact with the contacts of the device but prevents withdrawal of the conductor.

Abstract: There is disclosed a single unit triplex receptacle having three sockets that can be mounted in a single box, does not require separate interconnecting wiring and can be covered by a single wall plate. There is also disclosed a single unit sixplex receptacle having six sockets that can be mounted in a double box, does not require separate interconnecting wiring and can be covered by a single wall plate.

Abstract: A stacked multi port connector with the light-emitting element is described. The stacked multi port connector with the light-emitting element has a transmission module, having an adapting device, a positioning set, a frontal cover and a plurality of light-emitting elements, wherein the adapting device comprises a terminal set having a plurality of signal output terminals penetrating there-through. The positioning set is positioned at a bottom face of the adapting device. The positioning set comprises a plurality of through holes and a plurality of signal input terminals penetrating there-through. The frontal cover comprises a plurality of slots formed on a surface thereon and a plurality of receiving spaces for positioning the light-emitting elements. A plurality of protrusions is formed on two sides of a bottom flange, and wherein the frontal cover covers an outer portion of the adapting device.

Abstract: A system and method of providing electrical energy to houses and buildings and the like, which reduces cable length requirements, is disclosed. The system comprises essentially continuously accessible bus duct system and polarized electric receptacle providing baseboard systems in combination. Practice of the method of installation of the present invention requires that only short runs of cabling are required.

Abstract: A device for providing access to at least one power connection within an enclosure is disclosed. The device includes an assembly adapted for mounting to the enclosure and having an inside face and an outside face opposite the inside face for being inside the enclosure, the outside face for being outside the enclosure, an inside power outlet for receiving an electrical plug mounted to the inside face accessible from inside the enclosure, an outside power outlet for receiving an electrical plug mounted to the outside face and accessible from outside the enclosure, a cover operatively connected to the assembly having a first position for protecting the outside power outlet and a second position for providing access to the outside power outlet.

Abstract: A modular wall panel assembly for use in a modular furniture environment including a modular wall panel and an electrical receptacle connected to the modular wall panel. The electrical receptacle includes a connector having a plurality of connector terminals, a plurality of receptacle terminals, and at least one jumper which connects one of the plurality of receptacle terminals to one of the plurality of connector terminals.

Abstract: The modular electrical component for electrical wiring systems is provided. The modular electric component includes a removable electrical device, a base unit that fits within a junction box in the electrical wiring system and a mounting strap used to secure the base unit to the junction box. Typically, the removable electrical device has a plurality of power contacts that extend from a rear cover of the device, and the base unit has a plurality of terminal connections. The power contacts electrically connect to the terminal connections, when the replaceable electrical device is mated with the base unit. The movable electrical device may be, for example, a receptacle or switch. Preferably, the removable electrical device is a circuit interrupting device, such as a ground fault circuit interrupting device.

Abstract: The invention here disclosed is a back wire ground clamp for a wiring device such as a switch or receptacle having a ground strap which supports an outwardly projecting ground lug having a front edge and adapted to receive a ground connection. The ground lug is coupled to a clamp plate by means of a screw which passes through a clearance opening in the clamp plate and is threaded into a receiving opening in the ground lug. The clamp plate supports a blocking tab which extends downward below the front edge of the ground lug and extends side ways for a distance which is less than the length of the front edge of the ground lug. The blocking tab prevents the clamp plate from rotating relative to the ground lug as the screw is tightened and defines an opening between the clamp plate and the ground lug along the front edge of the ground lug into which a single ground wire can be inserted.

Abstract: A wire connector has a housing with a conductive clip therein. First and second retaining fingers are formed in the clip. Each finger engages a wire inserted into the housing to hold the wire in the housing. The fingers can be arranged for either a push-in or insulation displacement type connection. A conductive extension is electrically connected to the clip and extends out of the housing for connection to the terminus of an external electrical apparatus.

Abstract: A convenience interface device for providing access to at least one power connection within an enclosure, is disclosed. The device includes an assembly adapt for mounting to the enclosure and having an inside face and an outside face opposite the inside face for being inside the enclosure, the outside face for being outside the enclosure, an inside power outlet for receiving an electrical plug mounted to the inside face accessible from inside the enclosure, an outside power outlet for receiving an electrical plug mounted to the outside face and accessible from outside the enclosure, a cover operatively connected to the assembly having a first position for protecting the outside power outlet and a second position for providing access to the outside power outlet.

Abstract: A safety module electrical distribution system comprises a wiring module adapted to mount within an electrical box, the wiring module having a functional side and a wiring side. A terminal set is disposed at least partially within the wiring module and is adapted to terminate a power cable proximate the wiring side. A plurality of structured sockets are disposed on the functional side, the structured sockets incorporate a portion of the terminal set. A functional module having a front side and a back side is adapted to removably install in the wiring module proximate the functional side. A contact set is disposed at least partially within the functional module and is adapted to conduct electrical power to an electrical distribution function accessible from the front side. A plurality of shielded plugs are disposed on the back side. The shielded plugs incorporate a portion of the contact set.

Abstract: An electrical distribution apparatus comprises a body and a mounting bracket attached to the body. The mounting bracket is adapted to install the body within an electrical box. A plurality of terminals are disposed within the body and adapted to terminate a power cable. A terminal guard is mounted on the body and movable about a hinge between an open position and a closed position, where at least a portion of the terminals are accessible in the open position and covered in the closed position.

Abstract: An electrical receptacle including at least one conductor member having at least one folded segment oriented to define a receiving socket and a housing having at least one lateral support feature, the at least one folded segment insertable into a corresponding one of the at least one lateral support features along an insertion axis, the at least one lateral support feature supporting the at least one folded segment in a direction transverse to the insertion axis, the housing including at least one blade opening, the at least one blade opening being disposed proximate to at least one of the receiving sockets.

Abstract: A surface mounted receptacle assembly for use in a motor vehicle having a cabin includes a cover, a mounting plate adapted to be mounted to the vehicle, a wire harness and a backing plate removably secured to the cover to conceal at least a portion of the wire harness wherein the cover is selectively attachable to the mounting plate.

Abstract: A convenience light with a supplemental electrical outlet is provided. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a housing, a first light source to emit light when the apparatus is coupled to a conventional electrical outlet, and a supplemental electrical outlet having at least the same amount of electrical receptacles as the conventional electrical outlet to which the apparatus is coupled. In another embodiment, the first light source selectively emits light and the apparatus also includes a control device to control when the light source emits light. In yet another embodiment, the supplemental electrical outlet selectively provides access to electrical power associated with the conventional electrical outlet and the apparatus also includes a control device to control when the supplemental electrical outlet provides access to the electrical power.

Abstract: An electrical unit including a body having a device surface and a mating surface. An electrical device configured to provide an electrical function to a user is arranged on the device surface, and neutral and hot contacts configured to receive respective neutral and hot conductive members of an electrical box are mounted on the mating surface. The electrical device may be any one of an outlet, a switch, circuit breaker, or any combination of these devices. In addition to the neutral and hot contacts, ground and alternative contacts may be provided on the mating surface and each contact may be a rigid electrical socket oriented in a keyed configuration so as to electrically connect to the respective conductive members without the use of connecting wires when the electrical unit is mated with the electrical box.

Abstract: The present invention is related to an improved electrical receptacle such that more than one of such electrical receptacles are capable of being electrically coupled together without electrical wires. This feature is particularly advantageous for power adapter products such as power strips and extension boxes. A preferred embodiment includes an electrical receptacle having metal contact strips extending outward from two opposite side faces of its receptacle housing. These metal contact strips are adapted to be separately and electrically coupled to the hot, neutral and ground prongs of an inserted power plug. The receptacle is further configured so that when the metal-strip sides of two of such receptacles are disposed in close proximity of each other, the metal contact strips of the receptacles would then be physically paired. The metal contacts are paired in a manner whereby electrical connection is established and whereby the two receptacles are easily fastened.

Abstract: A header connector (2) comprises an elongated body (4) having a base portion (12), a plurality of signal contact (6) received in the base portion, a first shield (8) and a second shield (10). Each contact comprises a middle portion (32) positioned in the base portion, a plurality of retaining portions (34) extending downwardly from the middle portion, and a plurality of engaging portions (36) extending upwardly from the middle portion. The first shield has a plurality of strips (2) located in the base portion of the body. The second shield has a plurality of beams. The first shield intersects with the second shield.

Abstract: A ground fault receptacle housing for an electrical device having a backing portion with a base and a wall extending from the base. The wall has a hoop portion that forms an exterior channel extending therethrough. A cover portion is adapted to couple to the backing portion and has a front face with apertures therein for access to the electrical device. A wall extends from the front face and has a substantially inflexible post extending from the wall. The post has a body portion and a tapered protrusion thereon, the protrusion having a largest perimeter that is greater than at least a perimeter in portion of the exterior channel. When the protrusion passes through the channel, at least a portion of the hoop portion stretches, while the wall extending from the base of the backing portion remains substantially stationary.

Abstract: A wiring device is provided with three different ways in which the bared end of an electrical conductor can be coupled to the contacts inside the body of a wiring device. A clamping plate is placed upon the threaded body of a terminal screw. In a first arrangement the bared end is formed about the terminal screw and trapped between the head of the terminal screw and a first surface of the clamping plate which forces the conductor into firm contact with the first surface of the clamping plate. In another arrangement the straight bared end of the conductor is trapped between a second surface of the clamping plate and a contact plate. The movement of the conductor and clamping plate is controlled by the terminal screw. Apertures are placed in the bottom of the device housing adjacement the contacts in the housing. A contact arm, formed as a one-way clutch grips the straight bared end of a conductor to make contact with the contacts of the device but prevents withdrawal of the conductor.

Abstract: A modular electrical component for electrical wiring systems is provided. The modular electrical component includes a removable electrical device, a base unit that fits within a junction box in the electrical wiring system and a mounting strap used to secure the base unit to the junction box. Typically, the removable electrical device has a plurality of power contacts that extend from a rear cover of the device, and the base unit has a plurality of terminal connections. The power contacts electrically connect to the terminal connections, when the replaceable electrical device is mated with the base unit. The removable electrical device may be, for example, a receptacle or switch. Preferably, the removable electrical device is a circuit interrupting device, such as a ground fault circuit interrupting device.

Abstract: An inventive printed circuit board for chip-on-board applications has a ground plane that is externally exposed through apertures in any overlying layers in the board so the backside surface of a bare integrated circuit die can be directly attached to the ground plane using a silver-filled epoxy. As a result, heat is conducted away from the die through the ground plane. Also, a substrate bias voltage can be supplied to the backside surface of the die through the ground plane to eliminate the need for an internal substrate bias to the die, and to eliminate the need for a substrate bias voltage bond pad on the front-side surface of the die.

Abstract: A contact member or bridge for an electrical connector includes a bridge strap with a base plate and an abutment member coupled to and extending from the bridge strap. The base plate extends substantially perpendicular to the bridge strap and has an internally threaded bore. An abutment member extends adjacent a side edge of the base plate, and has planar surface extending perpendicularly to and facing the base plate. A clamping plate overlies the base plate, has a substantially straight side edge adjacent the planar surface and has a through bore. A screw extends through the bore in the clamping plate and threadedly engages the threaded bore in the base plate.

Abstract: An electrical receptacle includes a receptacle body, test and reset switches and a pair of projections. The body has electrical elements disposed therein for making electrical contact with an electrical plug of various diameter sizes. The body has a face with a set of apertures for receiving prongs of the electrical plug for mating of the plug with the receptacle. The switches are mounted to the face of the body adjacent to the set of apertures and are actuatable to affect operation of the electrical elements. The projections are made of a substantially rigid material and mounted to the face of the body adjacent to the test switch and the set of apertures and protrude from the body.