To Nonuse Or Distinct Use (e.g., Male/female) Position Patents (Class 439/172)
  • Patent number: 8197273
    Abstract: A German/French style plug with multiple pin arrangements includes an outer enclosure, an inner housing, a stop plate, a constraint plate, and multiple plugging units. The plugging units are received in the outer enclosure and the inner housing. To move the plugging units, the constraint plate is first displaced to free the plugging units. The plugging units have operation pegs that are operable to have pins of the plugging units projecting out of through holes defined in the outer enclosure or through openings defined in the inner housing. The second plugging unit has a constraint section that is movably received in a constraint slot defined in the inner housing, whereby the movement of the second plugging may cause extension of the inner housing to form a stepped configuration to provide an additional plug structure for different socket specifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: XYZ Science Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chiu-San Lee
  • Patent number: 8182276
    Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-way sliding plug (11), comprising a housing (13) and at least two plug contacts (40,50) of differing standards, which can be slid into the housing (13) into a passive position and out of the housing into an active position. Said plug contacts (40,50) each have a slide (47,57) with an operating head (15) and electrically conducting pins (41,43,45;51,53,55). The individual plug contacts (40,50) have three electrically conducting pins (41,43,45;51,53,55) on a common slider. At least two of said slides (47,57) are in a C-shape and arranged in opposition with the ends of the C-shape between the ends of the C-shape of the other slider (47,57).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Inventor: Walter Ruffner
  • Publication number: 20120100733
    Abstract: A multi-functional polarity-correcting plugging-coupling switching device includes a rotary component, which is rotatable and has at least one inspection element that is electrically connected to a touch control resistor and a live connection of a power plug. With a user using a hand to touch the touch control resistor, a closed circuit is formed with the human body for identifying correct position of polarization of the power plug. Further, through rotation of the rotary component, correct polarization and voltage level can be selected. Further, a resistive indicator is provided for indicating correct connection of earth line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Inventors: Chiu-San Lee, Su-Chen Shen
  • Patent number: 8157575
    Abstract: A combination terminal includes a first logic circuit that is configured to interface with a first device using a first protocol. The combination terminal also includes a second logic circuit configured to interface with a second device using a second protocol. The combination terminal includes a retractable portion that includes a first plurality of contacts and retracts based upon an insertion of the second device; connects a first portion of the first device with the first logic circuit; and selects an active logic circuit. The combination terminal includes a static portion comprising a second plurality of contacts and connects the second device with the second logic circuit; and connects a second portion of the first device with the first logic circuit using the second plurality of contacts. The first device is connected to the first logic circuit using the first plurality of contacts and the second plurality of contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Yoshimichi Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8157578
    Abstract: An universal plug adapter with multiple retractable pin plugs, comprising: a main body, at least a set of pin plug, an orientation guide rod allowing sliding of pin plug and a slide block restricting the shift of pin plug; the pin plug comprises of at least a pair of pins of international standard size, of which a single pin plug can be pushed every time; a sliding groove is set laterally onto the slide block; the groove is deep upwards and shallow downwards; the pin plug is provided with a bulge; when the pin plug is pushed, the bulge moves along the groove of the slide block groove; given the different depth of the groove, the bulge pushes the slide block to shift, such that the bulges on other pin plug cannot be aligned with the center of the groove, so other pin plugs not yet pushed are restricted in original position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventor: Kuang-Hao Lee
  • Publication number: 20120077361
    Abstract: There is provided an electrical charger including a charger assembly and a locking assembly. The charger assembly includes a base unit configured for being electrically coupled to an electronic device, and an adaptor unit configured for being electrically coupled to a power supply. The external surfaces of the base unit and the adaptor unit include co-operating external geometries that provide a visual indication whether the charger assembly is disposed in the locked state or the unlocked state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: RESEARCH IN MOTION LIMITED
    Inventors: Kasra YOUSSEFI-SHAMS, Felipe Oliveira SIMOES, Leonardo ALDANA
  • Patent number: 8113855
    Abstract: Electrical power adapters comprising retractable prongs and/or retractable electrical outputs are disclosed. In one example, an electrical travel adapter includes a power unit having a retractable electrical output and a plug unit coupled to the power unit, the plug unit having a plurality of retractable prongs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Chris Green, John E. Johnston, Lawrence E. Davis, Daniel R. Bauen
  • Patent number: 8079877
    Abstract: A power adapter capable of connecting a plug with an electronic board of the power adapter includes an insulated body, a plug and two conductive terminals. The insulated body includes a switching section with a switching space. The plug includes a turntable and two conductive inserts penetrating the turntable. The turntable is positioned on the switching section. Two conductive inserts respectively include a plug pin. The two conductive terminals extend to respectively connect to the electronic board. Each conductive terminal is connected with the switching section and the surface of the conductive terminal is attached to the surface of the plug pin of the conductive insert. As a result, when changing the direction of the plug, the plug can have good electric connection with the conductive terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Assignee: Chicony Power Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chyi-Lang Lai, Yen-Chih Chen
  • Patent number: 8038456
    Abstract: Apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods are provided for prevention of tampering with cables and associated systems. In one aspect, an anti-tamper adapter is provided that can inhibit or prohibit cable tampering for existing cables. In a further aspect, dummy plugs or blocking plugs can employ disclosed anti-tamper adapters to facilitate blocking ports or outlets that are intended to remain undisturbed for a period of time. The provided embodiments can economically and flexibly facilitate cable tamper prevention in a wide array of cable technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc
    Inventor: Hua Wang
  • Patent number: 8033846
    Abstract: There is provided an electrical charger including a charger assembly and a locking assembly. The charger assembly includes a base unit configured for being electrically coupled to an electronic device, and an adaptor unit configured for being electrically coupled to a power supply. The locking assembly includes at least one operative detent member. There is provided a locked state, wherein the base unit is disposed in an electrical coupling relationship with the adaptor unit and movement of the base unit relative to the adaptor unit, such that the base unit becomes disposed in an electrically uncoupled relationship with the adaptor unit, is resisted. There is also provided an unlocked state wherein the base unit is moveable relative to the adaptor unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventors: Kasra Youssefi-Shams, Felipe Oliveira Simoes, Leonardo Aldana
  • Patent number: 8033847
    Abstract: A power adapter having a replaceable and positionable plug has a body and a plug. The body has two conducting terminals and a ground terminal mounted on a top of the body. The plug has a ground hole and multiple arced holes mounted through a bottom thereof, an intermediate ground assembly and two intermediate conducting clip assemblies mounted in the plug and respectively corresponding to the ground hole and the arced holes, and a ground pin and two conducting pins mounted on a top thereof and respectively and electrically connected with the intermediate ground assembly and the intermediate conducting clip assemblies. When the plug is assembled with the body, the ground terminal and the conducting terminals are electrically connected with the ground pin and the conducting pins respectively inserted into the ground hole and selectively into the corresponding arced holes. With the structure, the plug is replaceable and positionable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Inventor: Kuan-Chih Chen
  • Patent number: 8029303
    Abstract: A multi-in-one connector has a casing and a plug assembly. The casing has a cavity and a front opening communicating with the cavity. The plug assembly is mounted in the cavity and extends through the front opening and has a first plug and a second plug. The second plug is separately stacked with the first plug and mounted slidably in the cavity through the front opening, wherein the second plug moves relative to the first plug to extend out of or retract from the front opening. Hence the multi-in-one connector is compatible with at least two connection interfaces of connector sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Taiwin Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Jui-Tu Chiang
  • Patent number: 8025514
    Abstract: Apparatuses, devices, systems, and methods are provided for prevention of tampering with cables and associated systems. In one aspect, an anti-tamper adapter is provided that can inhibit or prohibit cable tampering for existing cables. The provided embodiments can economically and flexibly facilitate cable tamper prevention in a wide array of cable technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Hua Wang
  • Patent number: 7993164
    Abstract: A power adapter for extending power from an electrical power source to a electrical device. The power adapter includes an adapter body, including an exchange surface, having one or more sets of interior electrical contacts. The power adapter further includes an end section that is attachable and detachable from the body. The end section includes (i) a set of end section interior electrical contact elements that make contact with the at least one set of interior electrical contacts, and (ii) a plug connector, electrically connected to the set of end section interior electrical contacts, and adapted to mate with a corresponding electrical receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Manjirnath Chatterjee, Yoshimichi Matsuoka, Peter Skillman
  • Patent number: 7972152
    Abstract: A power socket device having a rotation-operated switch function is disclosed, and has a housing, a first conductive frame, a second conductive frame and a plurality of socket units. The housing has recesses, each of which is installed with a socket plate having terminal slots. The first and second conductive frames are mounted in the housing. The socket unit is rotatably installed in the recess and corresponding to the socket plate. The socket unit has a socket housing, an insulating body and terminals. Each of the terminals has one end passing through one of the terminal slots to be in contact with or separated from the first and second conductive frame. Thus, the socket units can be rotated to switch on or off without unplugging the power socket device, so that the operation of the power socket device is relatively simple and labor-saving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignees: Well Shin Technology Co., Ltd., Dongguan Well Shin Electronic Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jui-hsiung Wu
  • Patent number: 7896663
    Abstract: A conversion plug has a pair of guide projections that hold therebetween a pair of blades in a stand state at the time of attachment of the conversion plug to an attachment plug, and guide the pair of blades into a pair of recesses. A plug main body has, at positions respectively adjacent to the pair of blades in the stand state, a pair of storage recesses for housing the pair of guide projections. During assembly, the pair of blades are naturally guided to the pair of recesses by the guide projections without an operator's specific care. After the assembly, the pair of blades are engaged in the pair of recesses and the guide projections are engaged in the storage recesses so that the guide projections cover the pair of blades thereby preventing the pair of blades from being deformed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Kaga Components Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuniharu Niidome, Yuzuru Iijima, Shugo Maruyama
  • Patent number: 7857639
    Abstract: A safety electric connector includes a main housing, a first plug and a second plug. The first and second plugs are in two different types and can be extended or retracted. The main housing has a chamber therein and a pair of socket holes formed on a top surface thereof. The main housing comprises two first conductive arms, two second conductive arms, two switching members and two connecting members therein. The connecting members and the switching members can be connected or disconnected. One of the plugs is moved to switch the switching member for controlling disconnection/connection of the connecting members and the switching members. Accordingly, the plug which is extended alone has a normal converting function. When both the plugs are pushed out simultaneously, only one plug has the converting function and the other plug doesn't conduct electricity. Therefore, the present invention can avoid any electric shock accidents when both plugs are pushed out, ensuring the safety of the connector when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: General Jack Technology Ltd.
    Inventor: His-Fan Chang
  • Patent number: 7857643
    Abstract: The XLR cable connector comprises a sliding element, by means of whose displacement between a retracted and an advanced end position, the XLR cable connector can be converted between a plug and a socket, and that has a first, a second, a third, and a fourth channel, a first, a second, and a third contact pin that are received by the first, second, and third channel of the sliding element, whereby in the retracted position of the sliding element, these contact pins project from the plug-in-side front face of the sliding element, and in the advanced end position of the sliding element, these contact pins are retracted into the channels of the sliding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: Neutrik Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Oliver Dobler
  • Patent number: 7815450
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrical connector, comprises a housing; a first connector; a second connector, wherein the second connector is disposed below the first connector and has a transmission speed different from the first connector; a driving member; an actuation rod; a driving spring; a lock sheet; an actuation spring; and a torsion spring. With the mentioned structure, the electrical connector is able to be plugged with a USB2.0 connector plug or a USB3.0 connector plug for satisfying requirements of various transmission speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: I/O Interconnect Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Yin-Hua Chen, Arthur Mosier
  • Patent number: 7796380
    Abstract: A positioning device for a computer read/write or storage device is provided. The positioning device allows the computer read/write or storage device (such as an optical disk drive, a hard disk drive, or a magnetic disk drive) to be readily installed in a computer chassis and rapidly detached therefrom for replacement without using screws.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventor: Shu-Nan Lee
  • Patent number: 7632119
    Abstract: A power adapter has a main body. A top of the main body defines a recess and an annular sidewall enclosing the recess. The recess has a locating depression arranged at a bottom thereof to be deviated from the center of the bottom. A plug is rotatably and detachably mounted in the recess. An elastic component mounted in the plug defines a contacting portion elastically protruding out of a bottom of the plug. The plug is locked in the recess by rotation so that the contacting portion is pressed against the bottom surface of the recess and compressed back elastically and then the contacting portion engages the locating depression under resilience action of the elastic component for preventing the plug from rotating with respect to the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jian Rong Ma, Hai Yan Yang
  • Patent number: 7614892
    Abstract: An electrical plug/socket adaptor for establishing an electrical connection between a electrical plug and an electrical socket, said adaptor comprising a housing with at least one electrical plug receiving zone to receive an electrical plug of a kind selected from at least one of a Euro pin electrical plug, British pin electrical plug, North America pin electrical plug, and Australia pin electrical plug, the adaptor configurable to itself be capable of being operatively plugged into an electrical socket of a kind selected from at least two of a Euro pin electrical socket, British pin electrical socket, North America pin electrical socket, and Australia pin electrical socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventors: Keesjan Klant, Tung Yan Lau
  • Patent number: 7597570
    Abstract: A universal power adapter has a choice of configurations for use in different countries and with different items of electronic equipment. A plug base for pivot connection with the adapter body has conducting pins for connection with an electrical socket and corresponding electrical terminals connected electrically to the pins. A rotational safety cover is provided to shield the electrical terminals and avoid unintentional contact. The cover has openings permitting access to the terminals when the cover is rotated. The body has a lug for engaging the cover to rotate the cover when the body is secured rotatably to the base. A power cord extends from the body to a mating socket and detachable adaptor tips. A voltage selector switch for selecting voltage has a semi light transmissive indicator disk with a light beneath the disk indicating the selected output voltage and operational status of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Modern Sense Limited
    Inventor: Kam Wah So
  • Publication number: 20090186503
    Abstract: The XLR cable connector comprises a sliding element (2), by means of whose displacement between a retracted and an advanced end position, the XLR cable connector can be converted between a plug and a socket, and that has a first, a second, a third, and a fourth channel (3, 4, 5, 6), a first, a second, and a third contact pin (9, 10, 11) that are received by the first, second, and third channel (3, 4, 5) of the sliding element (2), whereby in the retracted position of the sliding element (2), these contact pins (9, 101, 11) project from the plug-in-side front face (7) of the sliding element (2) and the XLR cable connector with its contact pins (9, 10, 11) can be plugged into contact tubes (20) of a socket (21), and in the advanced end position of the sliding element (2), these contact pins (9, 10, 11) are retracted into the channels (3, 4, 5) of the sliding element (2) and sections of these channels (3, 4, 5) are located on the plug-in-side of the free ends (12) of the contact pins (9, 101, 11), a first, a sec
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Applicant: Neutrik Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Oliver DOBLER
  • Patent number: 7549877
    Abstract: An electrical device charger is provided. In various embodiments the charger includes a dual plug pivotally mounted within a plug reservoir of a charging unit. The dual plug includes a set of first pins and a set of second pins, wherein the first pins are fixedly oriented at substantially a 90° angle to the second pins. The first pins are structured for insertion into a first type of electrical supply receptacle and the second pins are structured for insertion into a second type of electrical supply receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Astec International Limited
    Inventors: Fidel P. Vista, Jr., Randy John T. Delos Santos
  • Patent number: 7537471
    Abstract: Systems of reversible USB type-A connectors which can be functionally mated with standard USB type-A connectors in each of two coupling orientations can also be reversibly mated with each other. Each plug and each receptacle includes at least one displaceable element which assumes: (a) a neutral configuration prior to coupling with the standard USB receptacle, (b) a first displaced configuration when coupled with the standard USB receptacle in a first coupling orientation, and (c) a second displaced configuration when coupled with the standard USB receptacle in a second coupling orientation. The reversible plug and the reversible receptacle are adapted for functionally mating with each other in each of two relative coupling orientations such that the displaceable element of a pre-selected one of the connectors assumes the corresponding first displaced configuration independent of the relative coupling orientation between the connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: SanDisk IL, Ltd.
    Inventor: Mordechai Teicher
  • Patent number: 7497707
    Abstract: A power supply apparatus includes a main body, a first power connecting part and a foldable electrical connector. The main body includes a power converting circuit therein and has a first socket at a first side thereof. The first power connecting part has an end connected to the main body. The foldable electrical connector includes a housing and at least a conductive pin. The housing includes a connecting member and a receiving portion. The connecting member is electrically connected to the first socket of the main body. The conductive pin is disposed in the receiving portion and multi-angularly rotatable with respect to the housing so as to be selectively stored in the receiving portion or protruded from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Wen-Ching Wu, Ya-Hui Chen
  • Patent number: 7494349
    Abstract: The invention provides an input/output port (I/O port) switch structure of an electronic device. The electronic device comprises a motherboard, and an opening is installed on a predetermined position of the electronic device. The switch structure is installed on the motherboard of the electronic device and a corresponding opening is installed on a side of the electronic device. The I/O port switch structure comprises a base and an operation unit, wherein the base is electrically connected to the motherboard and is used for installing a plurality of I/O ports with different functions. The operation portion is connected to the base to let the base perform a rotating motion at a predetermined angle, and the user can therefore switch and use the required I/O port by operating switch elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Elitegroup Computer Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Cheng Ho Huang, Hung Lin Chang
  • Patent number: 7465901
    Abstract: A system and method for powering a welding-type device from a plurality of distinct outlet configurations is disclosed. The power cord system includes a power cord having a plurality of conductors extending therethrough. An end of the power cord is constructed to engage an individual adapter of a plurality of adapters. Each of the plurality of adapters has a prong configuration that is different than a prong configuration of the other adapters such that each of the plurality of adapters is constructed to electrically connect the power cord to a uniquely configured outlet. A welding-type device according to the present invention is quickly and efficiently adaptable to operate at a plurality of different input power signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas G. Yunk, Albert M. Nowak
  • Patent number: 7465176
    Abstract: An adjustable power plug adapter structure comprises an insulating case, a first inserted member, a second inserted member, and a plug. The insulating case has two side arms and a pivoting portion. The first and second inserted members are oppositely joined in the insulating case, and electrically connected. The plug is movably assembled to the insulating case. The plug has a third inserted member which is mated to the second inserted member. The plug has a sliding groove on its side, and the sliding groove corresponds to the first pivoting portion. Making use of this structure, the insulating case, the first inserted member, and the second member form an adjustable power plug adapter. When one adjustable power plug adapter is not used, it can slide and rotate away. The adjustable power plug adapters can be assembled together to correspond to a variety types of receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 16, 2008
    Inventor: Sheng-Hsin Liao
  • Patent number: 7446635
    Abstract: A combination of at least two electromagnetic switching devices, each of which is provided with a plug-in connector socket and can be fixed side by side on a support in a stationary position in relation to one another and can be connected to form electrical contact by means of a connection unit. The connection unit includes an electrical conductor connection and a plug-in connector system. The conductor connection is encased by a housing of the connection unit and the plug-in connector system is encased by the lateral faces of the connection unit that face the switching devices. The plug-in connector system is configured to be displaced on the lateral face of the connection unit towards the lateral face of the neighbouring device in the connection unit housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Moeller GmbH
    Inventors: Stephan Stanke, Frank Friederiszick
  • Patent number: 7438574
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to electrical plug apparatus for selectively connecting a device such as a battery charger, for example, to sources of AC and DC electrical power and comprise a housing, a first connector attached to the housing for connecting to a DC source of electrical power, a second connector attached to the housing for connecting to an AC source of electrical power wherein the first and second connectors are configured to enable only one of the connectors to be used at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Peter W. Neumann
  • Patent number: 7438575
    Abstract: An electrical connector includes an enclosure, a male member, a female member, and an operating member. The enclosure defines an opening in an end thereof. The female member is slidably mounted in the enclosure, and includes a housing defining a plurality of through holes. The male member is fixed in the enclosure, and includes a plurality of pins passing through the through holes of the housing respectively. The operating member is connectable to the female member to be controlled to make the housing of the female member move out of the opening of the enclosure to allow the electrical connector to act as a female type connector; or to make the housing to be retracted in the enclosure, such that the pins extend out of the through holes of the housing to allow the electrical connector to act as a male type connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiao-Zhu Chen, Ke Sun
  • Patent number: 7410377
    Abstract: A plug and socket system for electrical coupling of mains power, and safety socket cap devices are disclosed. The devices are an in line plug device FIG. 2 with a removable Semi hollow plug spigot 6 that houses removable electrical pin means 9/10. A wire clamping means FIG. 12/5; is attached to the Semi hollow plug spigot in one embodiment to retain wires to the pin terminals. A locking latch means FIG. 2/7, locks both the socket and the plug together FIG. 1 by a cantilevered latch FIG. 8, which is pushed into the socket and then is held in position by an internal slot inside the socket FIG. 10/9. The latch is released by using leverage with one or more fingers inside a finger hold FIG. 1/4, while depressing a button FIG. 1/3 or series of buttons FIG. 9/2 and the two devices can be separated. A water-resistant seal is created by the inclusion of an ‘O’ ring FIG. 4/11. The Semi hollow plug spigot depth FIG. 3/14 into the socket device and the locking of the two devices creates a tamper proof chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2008
    Inventor: Geoffrey Wharton
  • Patent number: 7381059
    Abstract: A power supply device (10) includes a base (20) and a plug (30). The base includes a top wall (22), a recessed portion (24) defined in the top wall, and a locating portion (280) formed in the recessed portion. The plug is rotatably received in the recessed portion, and includes a protruding portion (322) received in the locating portion. When the protruding portion moves along the locating portion, the plug rotates relative to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shih-Chi Wong
  • Patent number: 7354286
    Abstract: An adapter for connectors to couple connectors and power supply sockets of different specifications to establish electric connection between them includes two terminal sets that are insertable into the power supply sockets. The two terminal sets are pivotally coupled on one end of the adapter in an opposite open manner, and are held in a housing trough formed on the adapter in normal conditions. When in use desired terminals can be inserted into a corresponding power supply socket of a selected specification and raised upright. The terminal sets can be retracted and extended so that the size of the adapter is smaller. Such a design also can keep the terminals from extending to prevent hurting people or articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: XYZ Science Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chiu-San Lee
  • Patent number: 7329136
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bi-directional electronic device with USB interface, comprising a two-in-one USB connector and a USB OTG controller. The two-in-one USB controller has a USB standard-A type male connector and a USB standard-B type female controller, disposed in housing; the two-in-one USB controller is designed so that only the selected USB standard-A type male connector and the USB standard-B type controller can be used for plugging in. The USB OTG controller determines the operation mode of the bi-directional electronic device with the USB interface based on the plugging position of the USB standard-A type male controller and the USB standard-B type controller of the two-in-one controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Assignee: Behavior Tech Computer Corp.
    Inventors: Steel Su, Toon-Jeow Foo, Shen-Feng Huang
  • Patent number: 7316578
    Abstract: The present invention provides a test apparatus which comprises: a test head which applies a test pattern to the electronic device; a main frame which includes multiple frame-side connectors and which supplies control signals to the test head via the frame-side connectors; and a cable unit which provides optical connection between the frame-side connectors and the test head, and which transmits the control signals to the test head. With such an arrangement, the cable unit comprises: multiple optical fiber cables which transmit the control signals; multiple unit-side connectors which are provided at the ends of the optical fiber cables, and which are provided corresponding to the multiple frame-side connectors; a unit fixing portion which fixes the cable unit to the main frame; and a connector holder which holds the unit-side connectors in a manner which enables each unit-side connector to be inserted/extracted into/from the frame-side connector independent of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2008
    Assignee: Advantest Corporation
    Inventors: Atsushi Ono, Toshiyuki Okayasu, Akihiro Fujimoto, Masashi Shibata
  • Patent number: 7287991
    Abstract: In a multi-sectional plug rotating and positioning structure, a power connector includes a casing, a plug having a pivotal axle pivotally coupled to the casing and a rotating route, a gear disposed on the pivotal axle and driven by the pivotal axle and having a plurality of gear tooth portions, a limit plate positioned in the casing, and a latch portion extended from the limit plate and corresponding to the gear tooth portions. The latch portion of the plug is coupled to the gear tooth portion to define a limit relation in the rotating route. The plug can be rotated with respect to the casing to reduce volume and facilitate carrying the product. The gear of the pivotal axle is latched to the limit plate, so that the plug gives a multi-sectional positioning effect in the rotating route to provide hand feels for rotation and positioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Assignee: SPI Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen-Yu Li
  • Patent number: 7287994
    Abstract: A modular plug device includes an adapter and a plug. The adapter has an insulating casing and a locking button. The insulating casing has two side arms and is provided with pivoting portions. One side arm is provided a projecting portion on the surface of the inner edge thereof. The locking button is movably provided on the two side arms. The plug is movably assembled with the adapter. The side edges of the plug are formed with sliding grooves to correspond to the pivoting portions. The projecting portions are stopped and positioned by the front ends of the sliding grooves when the inner surface of the locking button abut against the outer surface of the side arm. Therefore, when the plug is assembled with the adapter they can be reliably locked together without the risk of loosening or detaching, thereby achieving a secure electrical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2007
    Inventor: Sheng-Hsin Liao
  • Patent number: 7273384
    Abstract: A universal power adapter has a choice of configurations for use in different countries and with different items of electronic equipment. A plug base for pivot connection with the adapter body has conducting pins for connection with an electrical socket and corresponding electrical terminals connected electrically to the pins. A rotational safety cover is provided to shield the electrical terminals and avoid unintentional contact. The cover has openings permitting access to the terminals when the cover is rotated. The body has a lug for engaging the cover to rotate the cover when the body is secured rotatably to the base. A power cord extends from the body to a mating socket and detachable adaptor tips. A voltage selector switch for selecting voltage has a semi light transmissive indicator disk with a light beneath the disk indicating the selected output voltage and operational status of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Modern Sense Limited
    Inventor: Kam Wah So
  • Publication number: 20070178735
    Abstract: A universal serial bus connecting device is provided, including a first housing, a second housing, a connector, and second pins. The second housing, movably disposed at one side of the first housing, has a first opening located at one side of the second housing far from the first housing. The connector includes a substrate inserted in the second housing, and four first pins embedded in the substrate. The four second pins are disposed within the second housing. Each second pin is electrically connected to the corresponding first pin. When the connector is accommodated within the second housing, the connector and the second housing form a receptacle. When the second housing is moved to make the connector protrude from the first opening, the connector and the second housing form a plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2006
    Publication date: August 2, 2007
    Applicant: SUNPLUS TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Yarn-Chen Chen
  • Patent number: 7241169
    Abstract: An adapter for power supply is disclosed. The adapter comprises a body containing a peg module connected a connector of a plug, characterized in that one side of the body of the adapter is a common socket engaged with an engaging slot formed on the housing, the top portion of the engaging slot is a peg slot for the peg element at the bottom of the connector to align with the peg module at the interior of the body. The peg module is positioned within the interior of the body and the connector of various specification has a common plug for connection with a protruding peg of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Hsien-Lin Yang
  • Patent number: 7232322
    Abstract: A power supply with optional types of plugs, composed by one universal body and replaceable plug, is disclosed. The universal body includes a plurality of blocks, a circular recess, an elastic switch key, and two conductive plates; whereas the plugs could be different specifications of plug with opposite blocks and two conductive plates, the block holes and blocks include a set of error-proof block hole and error-proof block which posses a block slot to hold the fan-shaped block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Assignee: Atech Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Lich-Chyum Yen, Chung-Yi Pai, Wen-Chi Huang
  • Patent number: 7220139
    Abstract: A universal power adapter to allow only the plug desired to stick out smoothly in a simple construction and allowing convenient operation is comprised of a lid, a base, a rotary switch, and multiple plugs; multiple channels being disposed on the external wall of the base, a standardized plug being inserted to each channel; a rotary switch containing a bar sliding block and a braking pushbutton; the bar sliding block containing a bar slide and a gap; the pushbutton being inserted into the gap; a protruding block and a slot below being disposed to the top of the plug; the slot receiving the insertion end of the braking pushbutton; and the pushbutton sliding in the channel on the external wall of the base; and the protruding block of each plug being inserted into the bar slide of the bar sliding block to slide against the protruding block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Inventors: Hsi-Fan Chang, Sheng-Rong Gao
  • Patent number: 7179105
    Abstract: A power supply with a changeable plug element includes a plug housing and a plug element mounted moveably on the plug housing. The plug housing includes a front cover (1), a circuit board (2), a rear cover (4) and a pair of connecting sheets (5). The rear cover (4) and the front cover (1) engage with each other and contain the circuit board (2). The plug element includes a plug lid (6), a pair of elastic sheets (7) and a base (8) with pins. The plug lid (6) is mounted on the base (8) to form a receiving space, and the elastic sheets (7) are received in the receiving space and connect with pin wires. The plug lid (6) can insert into the plug housing and the connecting sheets (5) may engage with the elastic sheets (7). The present invention has simple structure and low cost and can be operated conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2007
    Inventor: K. Y. Hung
  • Patent number: 7168968
    Abstract: A plug adapter includes a holder and a plug. An adaptation ring is provided on the holder; the adaptation ring containing multiple gaps. A mounting plate from the plug is snapped into the adaptation ring and turns in a given direction. The mounting plate is secured in place by pressing a push for the plug to engage with the holder. The push may also be pressed to turn the mounting plate in an opposite direction, causing the plug to disengage from the holder to facilitate replacement of the plug with another plug of differing specification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: SPI Electronic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chen-Yu Li
  • Patent number: 7134887
    Abstract: An AC adapter assembly having an adapter with an AC input and a DC output, a wall socket connector that includes an AC input connector member configured for insertion into the input of the adapter and a plurality of prongs configured for both insertion into a wall socket and movable from an in-use position to a storage position and the wall socket connector is configured to remain within the thinnest dimension of the adapter; and a DC connector is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventor: Leroy B. Keely
  • Patent number: 7125265
    Abstract: An electronic device with various signal transmission connectors. The electronic device comprises a main body, a first signal transmission module slidably disposed in the main body and a second signal transmission module slidably disposed in the main body. The first signal transmission module comprises a first connector projecting from or received in the main body and the second signal transmission module comprises a second connector projecting from or received in the main body. The first connector and the second connector cannot project from the main body simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: BENQ Corporation
    Inventor: Shih-Lung Weng
  • Patent number: 7094085
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an electrical socket adapter for selectively providing electrical pins and insertion holes in different configurations, the adapter comprising a casing with openings in a front side of the casing and at least one pin holder being removably placed in the casing, wherein the pin holder comprises electrical pins being extendable through corresponding openings in the casing to protrude from the casing. It is the object of the present invention to provide an electrical socket adapter applicable to a variety of electrical standards and being yet still compact and convenient. This object is solved by an electrical socket adapter of the above mentioned type characterized in that at least one electrical pin being hinged on the pin holder to be selectively extractable from the pin holder, wherein in an operative position the electrical pin protrudes from a front side of the pin holder, and in a rest position, the electrical pin is at least partially retracted in the pin holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventors: Emanuela Bona, Raffaella Bona, Raffaele Bona