Molding Type; E.g., Baseboard Patents (Class 439/120)
  • Patent number: 11018466
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a socket. The socket may include a housing and a plug. At least one of a slot or a hole may be positioned on at least one side of the housing. A clamping conducting strip may be positioned in the housing. At least two elastic conducting contacts may be positioned on a surface of plug. The elastic conducting contacts may connect to a power source and the plug may be positioned outside the housing. A connecting groove may be positioned on a back side of the housing. An inner contact point may be positioned in the connecting groove and be connected to the clamping conducting strip. A connector may be positioned in the plug. An external contact point may be positioned on the connector. The external contact point may be connected to the elastic conducting contact. The connector may be inserted into the connecting groove.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2020
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2021
    Assignee: SHANUTEC (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wenting Zhu, Nan Luo, Bowei Lu, Chao Du, Xiaoqiao Shen, Xiaoyu Wang, Yan Chen
  • Patent number: 10693253
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a movable socket assembly. The movable socket assembly may include a housing, a plug part installed in said housing, a plurality of elastic conducting contact points formed on said plug part, and an adjusting mechanism for positioning the plug part out of the housing so that the plug part can be removably inserted into an external power outlet. The housing may further include a first housing and a second housing, and the second housing can retract into the first housing to extend the flat insertion piece out of the housing through an opening of the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2020
    Assignee: SHANUTEC (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wenting Zhu, Nan Luo, Quangang Zhang, Guoxin Wu, Jie Zhang, Bowei Lu, Panpan Zhou, Xiaoqiao Shen
  • Patent number: 10594097
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-function power strip are shown, said strip including a first endcap and a second endcap; at least one rail, said rail being adapted to engage with at least one outlet module; the rail also being engaged with a transformer module, said transformer module in electrical connection with the at least one outlet module, and adapted to receive electrical power therefrom, said transformer module further comprising a transformer adapted to transform electrical power into a plurality of voltages suitable for powering a plurality of different models of electronic accessories, and a connector forming a circuit to provide a suitable one of the plurality of voltages to an electronic accessory; and wherein the at least one outlet module and the transformer module are releasably joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2020
    Inventor: Ole Falk Smed
  • Patent number: 10334751
    Abstract: An electronics rack for storing electronic components, the rack including a base frame, a top frame, and at least four vertical posts, each end of each vertical post attaching to the top frame and base frame and providing structural support for the rack. At least one of the vertical posts includes a post frame having two side walls and a back wall that are attached to one another to form a channel with an open front and an interior. At least one access panel is removably attached to the post frame so as to close off at least a portion of the open front of the channel, the access panel providing access to the interior of the channel. At least one of either a data connector assembly, an electrical outlet assembly, or a circuit breaker assembly is removably attached to the post frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2018
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: Middle Atlantic Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Nico Corbo, John Franetovich
  • Patent number: 10312622
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a movable socket assembly. The movable socket assembly may include a housing, a plug part installed in said housing, a plurality of elastic conducting contact points formed on said plug part, and an adjusting mechanism for positioning the plug part out of the housing so that the plug part can be removably inserted into an external power outlet. The housing may further include a first housing and a second housing, and the second housing can retract into the first housing to extend the flat insertion piece out of the housing through an opening of the second housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2019
    Assignee: SHANUTEC (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Wenting Zhu, Nan Luo, Quangang Zhang, Guoxin Wu, Jie Zhang, Bowei Lu, Panpan Zhou, Xiaoqiao Shen
  • Patent number: 10258879
    Abstract: An example supporting device supports two game controllers. The supporting device includes a support section and a main section connected to the support section. The support section includes a first slide member and a second slide member. The first slide member is provided in an area of the support section toward a first side in a predetermined direction, and the second slide member is provided in an area toward a second side. The slide members are capable of slidably engaging with rail members of the respective game controllers in a predetermined slide direction. The first slide member includes a first terminal provided on a first opposing surface. The second slide member includes a second terminal provided on a second opposing surface. The main section includes a first grip portion for being gripped by a user, and a second grip portion for being gripped by the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2019
    Assignee: NINTENDO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toshiaki Iwao, Masaya Takei, Kumpei Fujita, Hiroki Ikuta, Shinji Hirose, Tetsuya Akama, Hitoshi Tsuchiya
  • Patent number: 10211584
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-function power strip are shown, said strip including a first endcap and a second endcap; at least one rail, said rail being adapted to engage with at least one outlet module; the rail also being engaged with a transformer module, said transformer module in electrical connection with the at least one outlet module, and adapted to receive electrical power therefrom, said transformer module further comprising a transformer adapted to transform electrical power into a plurality of voltages suitable for powering a plurality of different models of electronic accessories, and a connector forming a circuit to provide a suitable one of the plurality of voltages to an electronic accessory; and wherein the at least one outlet module and the transformer module are releasably joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2019
    Inventor: Ole Falk Smed
  • Patent number: 9627828
    Abstract: A power distribution unit including a housing having a front face and at least one housing aperture formed therethrough. A power input is coupled with the housing and connectable to an external power source. At least one molded multi receptacle module is located at least partially within the housing. The molded multi receptacle module includes a recessed surface and a plurality of outlet cores extending from the recessed surface toward the housing aperture. The outlet cores include an unobstructed space between adjacent pairs of the outlet cores and each outlet core includes at least two aligned power-connection elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2017
    Assignee: Server Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Travis Irons
  • Patent number: 9325132
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a power extension cord with movable outlet modules, which includes a power input portion, a casing, and a plurality of outlet modules. The power input portion is connected to a city power source. The casing at least includes a first accommodating portion having at least a first sliding track. Each of the outlet modules is electrically connected to the power input portion, and at least one outlet module is movably disposed on the first sliding track. When all the outlet modules are arranged on the first accommodating portion, at least one outlet module becomes immovable on the first sliding track. When one or more outlet modules are dislocated from the first accommodating portion, at least one of the outlet modules becomes movable along the first sliding track. Accordingly, the present disclosure may thus effectively utilize the pin holes associated with each outlet module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: POWERTECH INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jung-Hui Hsu
  • Patent number: 9300097
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-function power strip are shown, said strip including a first endcap and a second endcap; at least one rail, said rail being adapted to engage with at least one outlet module; the rail also being engaged with a transformer module, said transformer module in electrical connection with the at least one outlet module, and adapted to receive electrical power therefrom, said transformer module further comprising a transformer adapted to transform electrical power into a plurality of voltages suitable for powering a plurality of different models of electronic accessories, and a connector forming a circuit to provide a suitable one of the plurality of voltages to an electronic accessory; and wherein the at least one outlet module and the transformer module are releasably joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Ole Falk Smed
  • Patent number: 9147982
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-function power strip are shown, said strip including a first endcap and a second endcap; at least one rail, said rail being adapted to engage with at least one outlet module; the rail also being engaged with a transformer module, said transformer module in electrical connection with the at least one outlet module, and adapted to receive electrical power therefrom, said transformer module further comprising a transformer adapted to transform electrical power into a plurality of voltages suitable for powering a plurality of different models of electronic accessories, and a connector forming a circuit to provide a suitable one of the plurality of voltages to an electronic accessory; and wherein the at least one outlet module and the transformer module are releasably joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Inventor: Ole Falk Smed
  • Patent number: 9121593
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus includes a light-emission unit having plate shape; and a base unit configured to be detachably attached thereto the light-emission unit. The base unit has substantially rectangular shape. The base unit includes a power supply rail for supplying electricity to the light-emission unit and a support section supporting the light-emission unit. The power supply rail has rail-shape and extending in a longitudinal direction of the base unit. The light-emission unit includes a luminescent panel, a control circuit configured to control lighting of the luminescent panel and an electrically conductive connection terminal electrically connecting the control circuit to the power supply rail. The base unit is formed so as to be capable of being attached thereto a plurality of the light-emission units along the longitudinal direction of the base unit. The connection terminal is connected to an arbitrary point of the rail-shaped power supply rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2015
    Assignee: Panasonic Intellectual Property Management Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yohei Hayashi, Hirofumi Konishi, Osamu Tanahashi, Hideharu Kawachi, Masanao Okawa, Koji Noro, Ryusuke Kotera
  • Patent number: 8881477
    Abstract: A ceiling frame system 1 comprises a plurality of frame members 1 configured to depend from the ceiling. The frame members 1 include one or more service conduits 11 and are configured to be interconnected to one or more other frame members 1 to interconnect said service conduits 11 between predetermined interconnected frame members 1. The services are accessible at one or more predetermined locations along the length of each frame member 1. A ceiling frame member 1 is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Assignee: Enlighten Australia Pty Ltd
    Inventor: David Whitfield
  • Patent number: 8622756
    Abstract: Embodiments of a multi-function power strip are shown, said strip including a first endcap and a second endcap; at least one rail, said rail being adapted to engage with at least one outlet module; the rail also being engaged with a transformer module, said transformer module in electrical connection with the at least one outlet module, and adapted to receive electrical power therefrom, said transformer module further comprising a transformer adapted to transform electrical power into a plurality of voltages suitable for powering a plurality of different models of electronic accessories, and a connector forming a circuit to provide a suitable one of the plurality of voltages to an electronic accessory; and wherein the at least one outlet module and the transformer module are releasably joined together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Ole Falk Smed
  • Patent number: 8454374
    Abstract: A bracket or support bar system is for installing one or more audio-visual (“A/V”) components or modules and generally overcomes the need for external cables and wiring connections. Every A/V component of the A/V system is attached to a wall bracket or support bar that enables the transfer of power signals or control signals (including media data) or both to each of the A/V components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Isamu Arie, Fumiya Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8425242
    Abstract: An audio-visual (“A/V”) system includes a plurality of A/V components, each one of which can be attached to a wall using a bracket or support bar and each one of which wirelessly communicates control signals (including media data) with the other A/V components. Each support bar enables the transfer of power signals to each of the A/V components. Instead of wires, each A/V component includes one or more contact or conductive surfaces that abut corresponding surfaces on the support bar in order to receive power signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2013
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Isamu Arie, Fumiya Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8258412
    Abstract: A furniture system including at least one furniture element having at least one raceway and a modular electrical wiring system at least partially located in the raceway. The electrical wiring system includes a plurality of wire distribution assemblies, an electrical assembly and an electrical switch. The plurality of wire distribution assemblies includes a first wire distribution assembly and a second wire distribution assembly. The electrical assembly partially electrically connects the first wire distribution assembly and the second wire distribution assembly. The first wire distribution assembly has a first number of electrical conductors. The electrical assembly is electrically connected to a second number of electrical conductors of the first wire distribution assembly, the second number being smaller than the first number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Group Dekko, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel L. Hayes, Sean M. Kirkwood
  • Patent number: 8245468
    Abstract: A flexible, extruded plastic wall structure with a hollow core is presented along with a method of making the same. The wall structure has an overall flat back wall, an overall front wall and at least one support wall extending between and confined to the interior surfaces of the overall back wall and the overall front wall; the overall back wall, the overall front wall and the at least one support wall having a generally uniform thickness and defining at least two defined spaces. The wall structure includes sections, where the rear wall of each section is flat from the bottom of the wall structure to the top of the wall structure. The hollow wall structure has a front wall having vertically disposed sections with different contours. The method includes using extrusion die for heating and extruding plastics using a multi-functional insert within the die and air pressure to create a hollow core in the wall structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Johnsonite Inc.
    Inventor: Curtis F. Johnston
  • Publication number: 20110287646
    Abstract: An audio-visual (“A/V”) system includes a plurality of A/V components, each one of which can be attached to a wall using a bracket or support bar and each one of which wirelessly communicates control signals (including media data) with the other A/V components. Each support bar enables the transfer of power signals to each of the A/V components. Instead of wires, each A/V component includes one or more contact or conductive surfaces that abut corresponding surfaces on the support bar in order to receive power signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventors: Isamu Arie, Fumiya Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8062042
    Abstract: An electrified framework system for bringing power and/or signal to electrically powered devices is provided. The system includes at least one longitudinally extending electrified bus bar. The bus bar has a housing which includes a pair of conductors positioned therein. Each conductor has a mating surface which provides a continuous conductive path for attachment of devices. The system also includes a means to bring electricity to the conductors without interfering with the mating surface of the conductors and thereby creating an unavailable point for electrical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Worthington Armstrong Venture
    Inventors: Brian T. Patterson, William J. Garver, Charles E. Reynolds, Rich Flickenger, Jae A. Eisenhower, Jere W. Myers, Todd M. Bergman
  • Patent number: 8033842
    Abstract: A bracket or support bar system is for installing one or more audio-visual (“A/V”) components or modules and generally overcomes the need for external cables and wiring connections. Every A/V component of the A/V system is attached to a wall bracket or support bar that enables the transfer of power signals and control signals (including media data) to each of the A/V components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Isamu Arie, Fumiya Matsuoka
  • Publication number: 20110223786
    Abstract: A bracket or support bar system is for installing one or more audio-visual (“A/V”) components or modules and generally overcomes the need for external cables and wiring connections. Every A/V component of the A/V system is attached to a wall bracket or support bar that enables the transfer of power signals or control signals (including media data) or both to each of the A/V components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventors: Isamu Arie, Fumiya Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8002560
    Abstract: An audio-visual (“A/V”) system includes one or more A/V components, each one of which can be attached to a wall using a bracket or support bar. Each support bar enables the transfer of power signals and control signals (including media data) to each of the A/V components. Instead of wires, each A/V component includes one or more contact or conductive surfaces that abut corresponding surfaces on the support bar in order to receive power and transfer control signals among other A/V components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Isamu Arie, Fumiya Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 7661966
    Abstract: According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an electrical distribution system (1) comprising or including an insulating track (4) for insulating an electrically conducting track (5) connectable to an electric power supply, one or more electric power take off sockets (2), each for receiving in electrical contact therewith an electric plug when inserted therein, characterized in that the or each socket (2) has electrical contacts (48, 49 and 50) engageable via a push fit with a slideable carriage (23) electrically connectable to the electrically conducting track (5) and being adapted to slide therealong, and locking means (32, 33) whereby the or each socket may be selectably locked in place along the electrically conductive track, thereby to position and re-position as required said the or each electric power take off socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: Interplast Co., Limited
    Inventor: Harout Ohanesian
  • Patent number: 7614896
    Abstract: A modular multi-component power distribution system is provided having a plurality of modular components which are configurable into a bus-bar based system, a flexible cable base system and a hybrid configuration wherein the bus-bar and flexible cable components are interconnected together. The components allow for configuration of the power distribution system into a variety of office systems including wall panel systems, desking or freestanding furniture systems and raised flooring systems either individually or in various combinations. The system components include a bus-bar-like power distribution assembly (PDA), branching connectors, flex connectors, which are useable to join power distribution assemblies together, and receptacles which are pluggable into either the power distribution assembly, the branching connectors or the flex connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Ross S. Johnson, Harold R. Wilson, Randy Borgman, Richard D. Elushik, Derek D. Crow, Dave Emery
  • Publication number: 20080194127
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical flat strip conductor of aluminium and of profiled cross-section for motor vehicles. To make it possible for processing to be easy, it is proposed that the flat strip conductor is formed from soft-annealed aluminium sheet unwound from at least one coil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Publication date: August 14, 2008
    Applicant: Auto Kabel Managementgesellschaft mbH
    Inventors: Rolf Stracke, Heinz-Georg Gottschlich
  • Patent number: 7128585
    Abstract: A receptacle for receiving an electrical plug is disclosed. The receptacle includes a plurality of channels which extend generally for the length of the receptacle. The channels include conductors where at least one of the conductors accommodates the smaller prong on a polarized plug. At least one of the conductors is in constant contact with a power source while at least one conductor is controlled by a switch. A receptacle of the invention is normally adapted to baseboards to allow a user to insert an electrical plug in either a constant “hot” connection or a switched controlled connection for generally the length of the baseboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2006
    Inventor: Brian Evilsizer
  • Patent number: 7080994
    Abstract: A power outlet includes a housing that has walls sized and shaped for defining a rectilinear and longitudinal length. A front wall is provided with equidistantly spaced and coextensive tracks extending parallel to each other and traveling along a major portion of the front wall. Coextensive electrical sockets are partially positioned within the housing and include front faces exposed from the front wall for receiving power cords from the auxiliary loads respectively. A mechanism is included for independently positioning the electrical sockets along the tracks respectively such that the electrical sockets can be slidably guided between opposite ends of the housing. An external power cord is directly mated to the electrical sockets for supplying power thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Jeremy L. Lewis
  • Patent number: 6911597
    Abstract: A system of architectural moldings that form a passage for electrical wiring (30), coaxial cables, fiber optic cables, and associated devices used in transmitting low-voltage power, communication, and control signals. The architectural moldings may also be used to cover pre-existing wiring raceways and conduits. The system may be installed when constructing a building or when retrofitting an existing structure. The moldings can be removably mounted on the interior surfaces of residential and commercial structures in a manner that allows for easy removal and replacement of some or all of the moldings without disturbing the enclosed wiring and cables or harming finished surfaces. The moldings may be made of wood, polyurethane, fiberboard, or any material suitable for manufacturing pieces that resemble baseboards, cornice moldings, chair rails, casings, or other interior millwork.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2005
    Inventors: James D. Seamans, William J. Seamans, David L. Seamans
  • Patent number: 6890219
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventors: Marc R. Mayer, E. Howard Mayer
  • Patent number: 6861583
    Abstract: A wire protector for protecting a wire during mounting of the wire on a mounting surface includes a retaining member configured to engage the wire. The retaining member includes a top portion and first and second arms extending generally perpendicularly from the top portion. Junctures between the top portion and the first and second arms are arcuate to engage the wire therein. At least one securing member is connected with the retaining member and adapted to position the retaining member on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Ryals, Wilson Ryals
  • Patent number: 6827592
    Abstract: An electrical distribution system includes a track having a longitudinal extension and a facia. The facia has an elongate slot extending generally parallel with the longitudinal extension. The slot includes a plurality of elongate side channels extending transversely from and generally parallel to the longitudinal extension. The track includes a plurality of electrical conductors, with each electrical conductor being positioned within a corresponding side channel. The plurality of electrical conductors include at least one data conductor. A modular electrical component includes a male connector extending therefrom which is disposed within the slot. The male connector includes a plurality of electrical terminals extending therefrom, with each electrical terminal disposed within a corresponding channel and electrically coupled with a corresponding conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Pent technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip A. McCoy, Donald E. DeWitt
  • Patent number: 6717049
    Abstract: The raceway system gives the appearance of decorative molding such as used not only baseboard, but also as genuine chair rail molding. Also disclosed are decorative rosette blocks, and plinth blocks, that are coordinated with this decorative molding. At least some of these blocks are hollow and communicate with recesses in the adjacent molding trim pieces so that they can function as hidden electrical switches, outlet devices, and lights. Each such block has a base and a hinged or slidable cover that provides the outward appearance of a decorative rosette or plinth block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventor: Mark Makwinski
  • Patent number: 6644988
    Abstract: A fabricated baseplate for electrical installations including a continuous insulative plastic device placed adjacent a floor of any room for insertion of any inlet plug of an appliance at any position in a room. The device has three parallel frontal indentations with each indentation containing a continuous necked electrical contact strip installed during the extrusion of the device. A support bracket is installed along a wall proximate the floor for positioning and securing the device which has cooperating protuberances in a top rear cavity. The device also has a bottom trough for installation of any electrical cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2003
    Inventor: Rafael Healy
  • Patent number: 6504098
    Abstract: A system of architectural moldings that, when installed, form a passage for electrical wiring, coaxial cables, fiber optic cables, and associated devices used in the transmission of low-voltage power, communication, and control signals. The architectural moldings may also be used to cover and improve the aesthetic appeal of pre-existing wiring raceways and conduits. The system as a whole may be installed during construction of new a home or building or when retrofitting an existing structure. The moldings can be removably mounted on the interior surfaces of residential and commercial structures in a manner that allows for easy removal and replacement of some or all of the molding without disturbing the enclosed wiring and cables or harming finished surfaces. The moldings may be made of wood, polyurethane, fiberboard, or any material that is suitable to manufacture pieces that resemble baseboards, cornice moldings, chair rails, casings, or other interior millwork for homes or commercial structures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: James D. Seamans
  • Patent number: 6492594
    Abstract: A modular electrical conductor system having at least one electrical carrier member and at least one electrical connector. The carrier member includes a dielectric carrier shell having a longitudinal axis. A plurality of enclosed channels and at least one open channel extend longitudinally through the carrier member. An electrical carrier conductor extends through each enclosed channel. The open channel has a longitudinally extending opening to receive at least one conductor cable insertable laterally into the at least one open channel. The electrical connector includes a dielectric connector shell having a like plurality of connector channels to the carrier member extending longitudinally therethrough. A connector conductor extends longitudinally through each connector channel and beyond each of the first and second connector ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Power Ease, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Robert P. Magyar, Philip Hague, Philipp Steiner, Michael Joss
  • Patent number: 6482018
    Abstract: A holding unit for holding electrical devices, and a mounting system utilizing such holding units are disclosed. The holding unit has an elongated body with first and second spaced apart, parallel walls, a central wall having opposite sides and extending between, and interconnecting the first and second spaced apart walls so as to form a generally C-shaped cross-sectional configuration with a mounting space between the first and second walls, which are resiliently movable. The holding unit also includes at least one recess formed in each of the opposite sides of the central wall such that the recesses extend along a length of the elongated body and are configured to accept electrical wires. At least one mounting projection extends from each of the first and second walls into the mounting space and are configured to grip an electrical device such that the electrical device is releasably held in the mounting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: All-Line Inc.
    Inventor: Albert Stekelenburg
  • Patent number: 6464516
    Abstract: A wiring interconnection system for interconnecting a plurality of electrical components. The wiring system is mountable to an external surface and includes an insulated cable. The insulated cable is shielded for use with RF transmission and provides a low profile when mounted to the external surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: George M. Baldock
  • Patent number: 5915980
    Abstract: A wiring interconnection assembly for interconnecting a plurality of electrical components includes an insulated cable carrier having a body portion, at least one conducting element integrally formed within the body portion, and a connecting module removeably coupled to the cable carrier configured to facilitate connection of each end of the cable carrier to tone of the plurality of electrical components. The connecting module has at least one penetrating member configured to penetrate a portion of the body portion of the cable carrier and contact the conducting element to establish electrical continuity therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: George M. Baldock
    Inventor: George M. Baldock
  • Patent number: 5788517
    Abstract: A cordless extension system generally includes an adaptor that enables manual electrical coupling between a conductive strip and a conventional duplex wall outlet when the adaptor is positioned over a face of the outlet. Removable outlet members are provided for selective placement along the conductive strip and are adapted for engagement with a conventional pronged plug. The cordless extension system may also provide strip connectors and strip safety guards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Inventor: Daniel Elmouchi
  • Patent number: 5695261
    Abstract: A modular furniture system is provided having vertical standards with internal conductors. The conductors are coupled to a source of low voltage electrical power such that adjacent vertical standards are of differing electrical polarity. Brackets for use in the modular furniture system are designed to make electrical contact with the internal conductors when a bracket is engaged in a vertical standard. An electrical device, such as a light fixture, is coupled between a pair of brackets engaged with adjacent vertical standards, thus, energizing the electrical device. Alternative embodiments are provided for use in merchandising displays and office partition systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 9, 1997
    Inventors: Bruce M. Slesinger, Thomas L. Collom, Frank Neidhardt
  • Patent number: 5688132
    Abstract: A raceway has extruded polymeric base and cover portions that snap together, and a socket defining segment of the cover can be located anywhere along the base to provide design flexibility for socket location. The base has elongated wire conductors molded into upstanding legs that define self-hinges for resiliently acting on the plug prongs when the plugs are pushed into slots defined by these leg portions. The plug prongs can be used to rotate a safety disk in the cover prior to pushing the prongs into the slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 18, 1997
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: Wilfred R. Rogers, Salvatore A. Cancellieri
  • Patent number: 5603621
    Abstract: A cordless extension system generally includes an adaptor that enables manual electrical coupling between a conductive strip and a conventional duplex wall outlet when the adaptor is positioned over a face of the outlet. Removable outlet members are provided for selective placement along the conductive strip and are adapted for engagement with a conventional pronged plug. The cordless extension system may also provide strip connectors and strip safety guards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1997
    Inventor: Daniel Elmouchi
  • Patent number: 5599595
    Abstract: A conductive component for carrying electrical signals constructed from a molded polymer substrate and a conductive coating adhered to the substrate, the coating defining a continuous electrical pathway between at least two terminals. Preferably, molded plastic such as liquid crystal polymer is formed to make circuits having conductive ink adhered thereto in order to provide inexpensive and versatile printed circuit boards for carrying electrical traces and other components and to provide printed formed contacts. The conductive solderable inks can be adhered to the substrate, for example, via screen printing, brush, spraying, dipping, masking, vacuum plating or vacuum deposition with subsequent oven drying, reflowing in a vapor phase, post curing or plating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. McGinley, John R. Cannon, William J. Green, Richard P. Zanardo
  • Patent number: 5418328
    Abstract: An electrical distribution system comprising one or more tracks having current-carrying conductors and ground conductor for mounting on wall surfaces. The tracks are slidingly received in connecting slots of electrical connector housings to connect the tracks to electrical outlets, or to interconnect sections of tracks together. More particularly, with the present invention it is not necessary to strip the ends of the tracks to expose connector ends to interconnect them with terminals in the connector housings. An end portion of the track is merely slid within a connecting slot of the housing. Electrical receptacles are also connected at any desired location along the track. The electrical distribution track can also be incorporated in an extruded baseboard together with a telephone line track to permit connection thereto of electrical receptacles as well as alarm systems, telephone jacks, fire detectors, surge protectors, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Inventor: Jacques Nadeau
  • Patent number: 5306165
    Abstract: An electrical distribution system comprising one or more tracks having current-carrying conductors and ground conductor for mounting on wall surfaces. The tracks are slidingly received in connecting slots of electrical connector housings to connect the tracks to electrical outlets, or to interconnect sections of tracks together. More particularly, with the present invention it is not necessary to strip the ends of the tracks to expose connector ends to interconnect them with terminals in the connector housings. An end portion of the track is merely slid within a connecting slot of the housing. Electrical receptacles are also connected at any desired location along the track. The electrical distribution track can also be incorporated in an extruded baseboard together with a telephone line track to permit connection thereto of electrical receptacles as well as alarm systems, telephone jacks, fire detectors, surge protectors, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Jacques Nadeau
  • Patent number: 5183406
    Abstract: Existing electrical outlet tracks require that the outlet be slid from one location to another along the track. The present invention provides a readily movable electrical receptacle which also discourages contact with the conductors. The receptacles of the present invention can be readily installed at any location along a baseboard conductor without sliding of the receptacle. This is accomplished using a T-shaped element which is inserted through the lengthwise groove of the continuous track and rotated into place. Screw-mounted bars are used to tighten the receptacle into place at the chosen location. Multiple raceways on a single baseboard, accommodating different types of receptacles, are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Inventor: Bryan D. Glen
  • Patent number: 5052937
    Abstract: Existing electrical outlet tracks require that the outlet be slid from one location to another along the track. The present invention provides a readily movable electrical receptacle which also discourages contact with the conductors. The receptacles of the present invention can be readily installed at any location along a baseboard conductor without sliding of the receptacle. This is accomplished using a T-shaped element which is inserted through the lengthwise groove of the continuous track and rotated into place. Screw-mounted bars are used to tighten the receptacle into place at the chosen location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Inventor: Bryan D. Glen
  • Patent number: 4773869
    Abstract: An electric wall unit which is engaged by sliding a plug to the inner end of a passage in a wall outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1987
    Date of Patent: September 27, 1988
    Inventors: Nancy M. Smart, Ricky B. Smart
  • Patent number: RE36030
    Abstract: An electrical distribution system comprising one or more tracks having current-carrying conductors and ground conductor for mounting on wall surfaces. The tracks are slidingly received in connecting slots of electrical connector housings to connect the tracks to electrical outlets, or to interconnect sections of tracks together. More particularly, with the present invention it is not necessary to strip the ends of the tracks to expose connector ends to interconnect them with terminals in the connector housings. An end portion of the track is merely slid within a connecting slot of the housing. Electrical receptacles are also connected at any desired location along the track. The electrical distribution track can also be incorporated in an extruded baseboard together with a telephone line track to permit connection thereto of electrical receptacles as well as alarm systems, telephone jacks, fire detectors, surge protectors, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: Intermatic Incorporated
    Inventor: Jacques Nadeau