Including Annular Contact Patents (Class 439/18)
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Patent number: 11469546Abstract: An electrical connector system can comprise a first connector and a second connector. The first connector can include a first threaded coupling feature defining a first axis. The first connector can also include a first electrical contact with a first contact surface having an annular configuration centered on the first axis by a radius. The second connector can include a second threaded coupling feature defining a second axis. The second connector can also include a second electrical contact with a second contact surface offset from the second axis by the radius. The first and second threaded coupling features can be operable to engage one another to couple the first and second connectors to one another such that the first and second axes are aligned, thereby facilitating contact or separation of the first and second contact surfaces upon relative rotation of the first and second connectors.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2020Date of Patent: October 11, 2022Assignee: Western Technology, Inc.Inventors: Michael Kralik, Lyal Christensen
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Patent number: 10951712Abstract: Power switching devices deliver power to at least one powered device and may command, control and/or monitor the powered device(s). The power switching devices may further bridge communications between remote devices, and for wireless devices uses wireless communication, such as, but not limited to, radio frequency (RF), Bluetooth, light, and sound frequencies, and Wi-Fi, wired and wireless internet, the cloud, and personal computing devices. Systems utilize such power switching devices for monitoring, command and/or control of the remote or powered devices, integration of information into data management applications, data storage, putting into place threshold alarms, monitoring available variables, functions and data, and associating events with time.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2016Date of Patent: March 16, 2021Assignee: iDevices, LLCInventors: Paul Brantner, Michael Tetreault, Eric Ferguson, David Davis, Shawn Monteith, Michael Murray, Vladan Djakovic
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Patent number: 10060216Abstract: A multiple channel rotary electrical connector can include multiple first contacts which are radially spaced apart from each other, and multiple second contacts which electrically contact respective ones of the first contacts while there is relative rotation between the first and second contacts. The second contacts may be radially spaced apart from each other. A well tool can include one section which rotates relative to another section of the well tool, and a multiple channel rotary electrical connector which includes multiple annular-shaped contacts that rotate relative to each other. A method of operating a well tool in a subterranean well can include producing relative rotation between sections of the well tool, and communicating multiple channels of electrical signals between the sections while there is relative rotation between the sections. The communicating can include electrically contacting multiple annular-shaped contacts with each other.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2012Date of Patent: August 28, 2018Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Terence A. Schroter, Ehtisham Ishfaq, Alben D'Silva
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Patent number: 9650157Abstract: A system may include a tether, a tether gimbal assembly, a drive mechanism, and a control system. The tether may include a distal end, a proximate end, and at least one conductor. The tether gimbal assembly may be connected to the tether. The drive mechanism may be coupled to the tether gimbal assembly and may include a housing, a spindle, and a motor. The housing may be fixed to the tether gimbal assembly. The spindle may be rotatably coupled to the housing, and the tether may be coupled to the spindle and rotate in conjunction with the spindle. The motor may be coupled to the spindle and configured to rotate the spindle and the tether. And the control system may be configured to operate the drive mechanism to control twist in the tether.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2014Date of Patent: May 16, 2017Assignee: X Development LLCInventors: Bryan Christopher GilroySmith, Brian Hachtmann, Elias Wolfgang Patten, Damon Vander Lind
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Patent number: 9071022Abstract: A power plug includes a main body, at least two prongs, and a cable. The main body has a universal serial bus port for receiving a universal serial bus plug. The prongs are disposed on the main body for receiving a power, and the prongs are configured to be insertable into an alternating current source. The cable is disposed on the main body and electrically connected to the prongs, and the cable is electrically connected to the power input end of the electrical appliance.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2013Date of Patent: June 30, 2015Assignee: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yu-Lung Lee, Yu Hsuan Chen
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Publication number: 20150129319Abstract: A slip ring apparatus which includes a housing, a contact assembly recess defined by the housing, a slip ring rotor assembly contained within the interior of the housing adjacent to the contact assembly recess, a slip ring contact assembly mounted within the interior of the housing, wherein the slip ring contact assembly is insertable and removable from the interior of the housing via an exterior recess side of the contact assembly recess, and a hatch cover for covering the contact assembly recess, wherein the hatch cover is removable and replaceable via the exterior recess side of the contact assembly recess. A method of servicing a slip ring apparatus which includes removing a hatch cover, servicing the slip ring apparatus, and replacing the hatch cover, all via an exterior recess side of the contact assembly recess.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 13, 2013Publication date: May 14, 2015Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Alben D'Silva, Mesfin Ayele Demissie
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Publication number: 20150014128Abstract: Provided is a charging-cable storage device configured to store a charging cable for use in an electrically-driven vehicle having an electric motor for traveling. The charging-cable storage device includes a holder-side socket provided with fixed contacts to be connected to a side of a charging power supply, a holder provided with the holder-side socket, a reel that is attachably and detachably attached to the holder and that includes a rotating drum to wind up the charging cable, and a reel-side socket that is provided to the reel and is provided with movable contacts to be displaced in a slidably contacting manner with respect to the fixed contacts in conjunction with a rotation of the rotating drum in a contact state with the fixed contacts.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2012Publication date: January 15, 2015Inventors: Eiji Mizuno, Yuichi Hirata
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Patent number: 8894418Abstract: A retractable contact assembly includes an outer casing having a first opening and a piston located in the first opening of the outer casing and moveable axially within the opening. The piston has a second opening. The assembly further includes an inelastic force generating device configured to control an axial movement of the piston and a contact located in the second opening of the piston and movable axially in the second opening of the piston. The assembly further includes an elastic force biasing device configured to provide an elastic force to the contact in an axial direction outward from the second opening.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2012Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Robert H. Perkinson, David R. Danielson
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Publication number: 20140273543Abstract: An electrical connector for electronics in a pedal spindle. The electrical connector may have a plurality of concentrically-spaced electrical contact pads and a spindle connector. The electrical contact pads may fit within the pedal spindle and electrically connect to the electronics in the pedal spindle. The spindle connector may have a housing and a plurality of electrically conductive elements, such as pins, extending from the housing. The housing may be sized and shaped to mate with an end of the pedal spindle proximate to the electrical contact pads. The electrically conductive elements or pins may each contact one of the electrical contact pads when the housing is mated with the end of the pedal spindle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 23, 2013Publication date: September 18, 2014Inventor: Christopher J. Hanshew
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Publication number: 20140213072Abstract: A rotary plug includes a base, a plurality of annular slot structures, a plurality of conductive components, a bridging component and a plurality of terminals. An accommodating space is formed on the base. The annular slot structures are respectively disposed on an inner wall of the accommodating space. Each conductive component is disposed inside the corresponding annular slot structure. A protrusion of the conductive component inserts into a hole formed on the annular slot structure. The bridging component is rotatably disposed inside the accommodating space. A first end of the terminal protrudes from a bottom of the bridging component. A second end of the terminal protrudes from a lateral surface of the bridging component and movably inserts into the annular slot structure to electrically contact the conductive component.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2013Publication date: July 31, 2014Applicant: WISTRON CORPORATIONInventor: Xiu-Feng Cheng
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Publication number: 20140120742Abstract: A rotary device for providing continuous electrical connections between dynamic, rotationally engaged connector components. The rotary device includes a rotor assembly comprising a plurality of slip ring elements electrically connected to a connector or cable at the rotor end of the device. The rotary device also includes a stator assembly configured to receive the rotor assembly, with slide contacts electrically connected to a connector or cable at the stator end of the device. The rotor assembly is rotationally coupled to the stator assembly, and the slip rings and slide contacts maintain electrical contact during rotation of the rotor assembly relative to the stator assembly. A first electronic device and a second electronic device connected using the rotary device can be freely rotated without twisting of the cable between the two devices. A method for assembling a rotary device configured based on the devices to be connected.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2013Publication date: May 1, 2014Applicant: Hypertronics CorporationInventor: Arkady Shinder-Lerner
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Patent number: 8651750Abstract: Electronic devices are provided that communicate over cables and other communications paths that include optical and electrical paths. A cable may include wires for forming an electrical path and one or more optical fibers for forming an optical path. Connectors at one or both ends of the cable may include electrical contacts and an optical coupling structure associated with the optical path. Optical paths may be included in connectors such as tip-ring-sleeve connectors and connectors of other types. Interface circuitry may be included in a connector to convert between optical and electrical signaling schemes. Wavelength-division-multiplexing may be used to support bidirectional communications. Breakout boxes and other equipment may be connected using the cables. Digital signals such as digital noise cancellation signals may be conveyed over the optical paths. Power and other electrical signals may be conveyed over the electrical paths.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey J. Terlizzi, Victor Tiscareno, Jesse L. Dorogusker
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Publication number: 20140045348Abstract: The present invention broadly provides improvements in a slip-ring adapted to provide electrical contact between a stator and a rotor. The improved slip-ring includes a brush assembly having a brush tube mounted on the stator and having a fiber bundle composed of a number of individual fibers. The upper marginal end portions of the fibers are received in the brush tube. The lower marginal end portions of the fibers extend beyond the brush tube toward the rotor. The improvements broadly comprise: a central portion of the fibers having been removed below the brush tube such that the fibers extending below the brush tube toward the rotor are in the form of an annulus; and wherein the tangential compliance of the fiber bundle at its point of contact with the rotor is more than twice the tangential compliance of the fiber bundle if the central portion had not been removed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 13, 2012Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: Moog Inc.Inventors: Norris E. Lewis, Jerry T. Perdue
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Publication number: 20140038433Abstract: A slipring assembly comprises a slipring module having at least one slipring track which is in electrical contact with at least one slipring brush. The slipring module includes an isolating body holding the at least one slipring track. Furthermore a heating element is embedded in the slipring module to generate heat within the slipring module and to increase the temperature of the at least one slipring track. This allows increasing the temperature of the slipring module to an optimum operation temperature and further to remove humidity from the surface of the slipring track.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 6, 2013Publication date: February 6, 2014Inventors: Jan Rehder, Peter Heinbuch, Albert Kirzdörfer, Christian Holzapfel
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Publication number: 20140001916Abstract: A brush intended for ensuring electrical contact between a fixed part and a moving part, said brush comprising a layer composed chiefly of carbon, silver, and of another metal different from silver, for example copper.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2012Publication date: January 2, 2014Applicant: MERSEN FRANCE AMIENS SASInventor: Geoffroy Berard
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Patent number: 8585413Abstract: Examples of rotary electrical connectors include a first pair and a second pair of opposing sheaves coupled together by intersecting first shaft connecting the first pair of opposing sheaves and a second shaft connecting the second pair of opposing sheaves, and at least partially electrically conductive belt disposed about respective perimeters of the first pair and second pair of opposing sheaves and adapted to remain in contact with at least a portion of the respective perimeters of the sheaves during motion of said sheaves. In example devices, one of the plurality of sheaves may remain stationary during operation of the device while the remaining sheaves rotate and/or orbit around a center axis of the stationary sheave, the device being configured to couple current between a stationary power source and a rotating member through the electrically conductive belt.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2012Date of Patent: November 19, 2013Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventor: Jeffrey P. Koplow
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Patent number: 8376757Abstract: A slip ring device includes a hollow pipe-shaped shaft rotatably supported inside a tubular body of a main case through a bearing and an electricity-collecting body integrally and concentrically provided in the shaft. The electricity-collecting body preferably includes a plurality of electricity-collecting rings and a plurality of insulating rings alternately layered with one another. The slip ring device further includes a plurality of brushes held by the main case and tip end portions making sliding contact with outer circumferential surfaces of the electricity-collecting rings and a plurality of lead lines introduced into the shaft. The lead lines include tip end portions electrically connected to the respective electricity-collecting rings. Two or more of the lead lines include shielded lines.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2011Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Assignee: Nidec Servo CorporationInventors: Atsushi Yamamoto, Kaoru Endo
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Publication number: 20120295450Abstract: Examples of rotary electrical connectors include a first pair and a second pair of opposing sheaves coupled together by intersecting first shaft connecting the first pair of opposing sheaves and a second shaft connecting the second pair of opposing sheaves, and at least partially electrically conductive belt disposed about respective perimeters of the first pair and second pair of opposing sheaves and adapted to remain in contact with at least a portion of the respective perimeters of the sheaves during motion of said sheaves. In example devices, one of the plurality of sheaves may remain stationary during operation of the device while the remaining sheaves rotate and/or orbit around a center axis of the stationary sheave, the device being configured to couple current between a stationary power source and a rotating member through the electrically conductive belt.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2012Publication date: November 22, 2012Inventor: Jeffrey P. Koplow
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Patent number: 8215962Abstract: A waterproof, swivel feature secondary plug and socket device suitable for use within a construction setting, for placement within an extension cord between an originating power source and a user end tool. The device allows a rotational movement between the plug and socket components such that cord twisting and buckling is eliminated, and strain on an operator is reduced. The device provides protection against cord damage or operator injury because, when too great a longitudinal traction force is applied along the cord, as when a cord becomes entrapped during use, the frictional fit between the plug and socket component allows an automatic separation of the unit with immediate withdrawal of electrical power from the cord.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2011Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Inventor: Manuel Machado
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Publication number: 20120129360Abstract: In a slip-ring unit for electrically connecting two components that are rotatable relative to each other, one component is arranged as a first cable, which has a core and a shield. The slip-ring unit includes first, second and third brush elements as well as first, second and third slip bodies. The first slip body has an opening extending through it axially, through which a first cable extends for transmitting the voltage applied on the core. The second brush element is additionally disposed at a radial offset with respect to the third brush element.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 10, 2009Publication date: May 24, 2012Inventors: Ludwig Angerpointner, Norbert Friese
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Patent number: 8011930Abstract: Disclosed is an electrical power receptacle with rotatable USB jacks comprising a main body including at least one shaft section; at least one electrical outlet assembly being disposed on the main body; a rotating member, coupled to the main body via the shaft section, being rotatable along the shaft section, and a rotational angle thereof being determined with respect to structural designs; and at least one USB jack assembly, being disposed on the rotating member and rotatable along with the rotational movement of the rotating member. An electric plug assembly with conducting prongs is disposed on the main body for connecting with the public electrical power distribution system. Thus, by adjusting the direction of rotation in accordance with the USB jack assemblies according to the present invention, the restriction in application range thereof decreases.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2010Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Assignee: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yu-Lung Lee, Jung-Hui Hsu, Ming-Chou Kuo
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Publication number: 20110207340Abstract: A robotically mateable connector has a flying-lead plug unit and a receptacle unit adapted for releasable mating engagement with the plug unit. The plug unit includes a robotic manipulator grip assembly. A rear end shell which includes a cable attachment fitting holds a plug module having an outer surface carrying a plurality of axially spaced, annular contacts of gradually decreasing diameter towards a forward end of the module, and is rotatable relative to a plug front shell. The receptacle unit contains a receptacle module having a bore containing spaced annular contact seats of gradually increasing diameter designed for engagement with the plug contacts when the plug and receptacle units are fully mated. This provides a robotically actuated electrical connector that requires no rotational keying and relieves cable torque.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: TELEDYNE ODI, INC.Inventor: James L. Cairns
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Patent number: 8002554Abstract: Embodiments of electrical connectors and related methods of manufacture are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: August 23, 2011Assignee: Belkin International, Inc.Inventor: John Wadsworth
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Publication number: 20110177697Abstract: A rotary joint connector has a plug having a plug contact module and a mating receptacle having a receptacle contact module designed for mating engagement with the plug contact module when the connector is fully mated. One of the units has front and rear shells which are rotatably coupled together and contain the contact module which is held in the rear shell so that the rear shell and contact module are free to rotate in the front shell. The mating contact arrangement is such that the plug and receptacle contact modules do not have to be rotationally aligned to maintain electrical contact, so that relative rotation of the electrical contacts of the two contact modules about the mating axis as a result of rotation of the rear shell does not degrade the quality of the connected circuits.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 19, 2011Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: TELEDYNE ODI, INC.Inventor: James L. Cairns
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Publication number: 20110098601Abstract: A method of performing a surgical procedure using an electrical surgical device, which utilizes an electrical surgical assembly including the surgical device connected to a base station by a cable having a plurality of mutually electrically insulated conductors, and an electrical adapter interposed at a point between the base station and the device. The adapter is comprised of a first half and a second half that have freedom of rotation relative to each other. The first half is equipped with a first connector-half and the second half is equipped with a second connector-half. While the surgical procedure is performed, the adapter permits relative rotation between the first half and the second half, thereby avoiding a problem of cable twisting.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2010Publication date: April 28, 2011Inventors: Ky Huynh, Kirk Mikkelsen
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Publication number: 20110065290Abstract: Embodiments of electrical connectors and related methods of manufacture are described herein. Other embodiments and related methods are also disclosed herein.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2010Publication date: March 17, 2011Applicant: Belkin International, Inc.Inventor: John Wadsworth
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Patent number: 7896708Abstract: An electrical connector system provides both electrically conductive connection and infrared coupling, and includes at least one electrically conductive member adapted to provide electrically conductive connection to another electrically conductive member, an infrared member adapted to provide infrared member coupling with another infrared member, and wherein the at least one electrically conductive member and the infrared member being held in positional relation to each other to be positioned with respect to a further electrical connector for electrically conductive connection and infrared coupling with respect thereto. A method of connecting electrical signals uses a pair of electrical connectors, each having an electrically conductive connection portion and an infrared coupling portion to provide for both electrically conductive connection and infrared coupling between the electrical connectors. The invention may be used in portable electronic equipment, including mobile phones, for example.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications ABInventor: Markus Agevik
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Patent number: 7859166Abstract: A carbon brush that suppresses a wear amount of a carbon commutator and has less swelling is provided. The carbon brush has a part connected to a lead and is one that slides in contact with a carbon commutator that is used in a fuel pump. The bulk density of the carbon brush is 1.85 g/cm3 or less, and the shore hardness of the carbon brush is 40 or less.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Totankako Co., Ltd.Inventors: Daisuke Namikoshi, Fumihiro Hozumi, Shinichi Suzuki, Takahiro Sakoda
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Patent number: 7750493Abstract: Slip ring assemblies for controlling pitch of a wind driven blade such as those utilized in wind turbines can include a series of grooves disposed about an outer perimeter of a rotating portion, each one of the grooves comprising a first planar surface intersecting with a second planar surface at an angle of 75 to 105 degrees, and a concavely rounded bottom portion at the intersection of the first and planar surfaces. The rotating portion of the slip ring can be formed of a bronze material and may include a graphite coating. Also disclosed herein are wind turbine assemblies employing the slip ring assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Ronald Ralph Cairo, Sujith Sathian
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Patent number: 7684670Abstract: A wire accommodating apparatus includes a cylindrical portion around which a wire connected to a signal transmission part is wound; a number of wire holding portions which incline externally from the bottom of the cylindrical portion and are disposed pivotably; and a fixed portion formed in the cylindrical portion so as to project downward, passing through an attachment hole of a to-be-mounted member, and fixed therein.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: March 23, 2010Assignee: Fujitsu LimitedInventors: Kenji Tsutsumi, Manabu Wakao, Kouichi Kuramitsu
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Patent number: 7602134Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus that controllably allows the relative rotation between structures, such as a gimbal and a structure to which it is mounted. According to one aspect, the apparatus includes a twist capsule assembly with internal stop mechanisms that controllably prevents the amount of clockwise and counterclockwise rotation with respect to a rotation axis. According to another aspect of the invention, by limiting the amount of relative rotation, other means of communicating power and signals between the structures can be used, thus avoiding or reducing the limitations imposed by conventional slip ring assemblies. According to yet another aspect, the invention includes techniques and structures for allowing conventionally shielded cables and wires to be used in place of slip rings, while allowing for rotation between structures, thus even further improving the communication of power and signals between structures.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2006Date of Patent: October 13, 2009Assignee: L-3 Communications Sonoma EO, Inc.Inventors: Scott Taylor, Allan A. Voigt, Alan Wardlow, Tim McCarthy-Smith
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Publication number: 20090246977Abstract: An electrical hose swivel connector may be used to connect a vacuum hose to a hair clipping device. The hair clipping device may need power, which may be delivered from a power source and through a power cord. The power cord may be in electrical communication with this electrical hose swivel connector to deliver power to the hair clipping device. This electrical hose swivel connector can allow for easier use of the hair clipping device, which may be used with the vacuum hose without causing tangling, twisting, or knotting in the power cord.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 26, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventor: Irwin Rashkover
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Publication number: 20090221153Abstract: An apparatus for creating an electrical connection with a surgical tool is provided that is capable of engaging the shafts of rotatable surgical tools having varying diameters. In one aspect, the apparatus includes a body of nonconductive material connected to a pair of spaced, electrical contact members that provide two spaced points of contact with the tool shaft. In another aspect, a contact arm is provided which pivots within a slot formed within a housing to receive larger diameter tool shafts. Additionally, the contact arm closes an opening on the housing and resiliently shifts to an open position as the contact arm is brought into engagement with the tool shaft. A method of connecting a conductor assembly to a rotatable tool shaft is also provided which includes using tension in the conductor assembly to resist rotation of a gripping end of the assembly connected to a rotatable tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2009Publication date: September 3, 2009Applicant: PIONEER SURGICAL TECHNOLOGY, INC.Inventors: Stephen Santangelo, Stephen Maguire
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Publication number: 20090186492Abstract: A rotatable electrical plug connector includes a main body and an auxiliary plug which is rotatably coupled to the main body. The main body is provided with fixed electrical terminals, the auxiliary plug is provided with electrical blades, and the rotatable electrical plug connector has electrical connection members connecting the electrical terminals and the electrical blades. The auxiliary plug is io rotatable relative to the main body, and may be fixed to the main body at any predetermined position. At each predetermined position and during rotation of the auxiliary plug, the electrical blades and the electrical terminals are electrically connected at all times. A rotatable electrical plug connector according to embodiments of the present invention is suitable to connect to power supply is sockets at convenient engagement positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2007Publication date: July 23, 2009Inventors: Yue Xue Xia, Mui Lian Jessica Toh, Chee Foo Richard Loh
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Publication number: 20080311763Abstract: A power interconnection piece for a rotary electrical machine, wherein the power interconnection piece comprises at least one power track provided with electrical power terminals intended to cooperate with a power track of at least one electronic module so as to distribute electrical power to the electronic module, the electronic module being integrated on the rotary electrical machine and wherein the power interconnection piece comprises a base plate made from insulating material that at least partially overmolds the power track.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2006Publication date: December 18, 2008Applicant: VALEO EQUIPEMENTS ELECTRIQUES MOTEURInventors: Cyril Dubuc, Laurent Thery
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Publication number: 20080280459Abstract: The present invention discloses a device that provides a convenient, safe, attractive method for holding, reaching and managing a plurality of electrical appliances by avoiding the cords getting entangled with each other in a work station. The device comprises a central hub, a plurality of flanges extending outwardly from the central hub and a plurality of electrical receptacles disposed on the central hub. Each flange has a first fastener disposed at an end of the flange and a second fastener disposed on the body of the flange, the first and second fasteners are capable of holding the electrical appliance and looping the electrical cord thereof such that an electrical plug of the electrical appliance is received into the electrical receptacle providing power to the electrical appliance. The device is capable of rotary motion thereby providing access to each electrical appliance.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 8, 2007Publication date: November 13, 2008Inventor: Richard E. Bova
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Patent number: 7435091Abstract: A novel stand alone electrical rotating power plug adapter device is disclosed herein which will increase the number of power cords that can be connected to wall outlets, power strips, or multi outlet plugs. The invention presented herein, addressing the object of creating a stand alone rotating electrical power plug adapter device with fixed external prongs, which can be inserted into sockets in wall outlets or power strips and a rotating electrical socket section which accepts prongs of power plugs.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2007Date of Patent: October 14, 2008Inventor: Felix Cruz
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Patent number: 7387522Abstract: Arrangements and methods are provided for electrically and mechanically coupling a lighting arm to a wiring body. An exemplary arrangement includes a fixture arm, a wiring body, a socket, and a plug. The exemplary socket is affixed to one of the fixture arm and the wiring body, and includes a socket opening and at least one socket electrical contact. The exemplary socket opening includes an outer end, an inner end, and a first mating portion on an internal surface of the socket opening. The exemplary plug is affixed to the other of the fixture arm and the wiring body, and includes a plug body and at least one plug electrical contact. The exemplary plug body includes an end portion, a side portion, and a second mating portion disposed on the side portion. The second mating portion is configured to engage the first mating portion when the plug is coupled with the socket.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2006Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: The L.D. Kichler Co.Inventors: Joseph John Janos, Gregory Stergiou, Richard A. Williams, Raymond J. Fritz
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Patent number: 7182647Abstract: A device includes a first conductive member configured to be electrically coupled to a first component and a second conductive member configured to be electrically coupled to a second component. The second conductive member is separated from the first conductive member by a gap. A conductive connecting member is moveable to make an electrical connection between the first and second conductive members across the gap. A housing receives the first conductive member, the second conductive member, and the connecting member. The housing includes an insulating layer and a conductive layer. The movement of the connecting member to make the electrical connection is visible through at least a portion of the insulating layer and the conductive layer.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2004Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Cooper Technologies CompanyInventors: Frank John Muench, Brian Todd Steinbrecher, Edine Mary Heinig, David Charles Hughes
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Patent number: 7117761Abstract: A steering shaft arrangement comprises a first housing (9), which accommodates a contact roller (10), the first housing (9) being divided up into a first and second section (13, 14), of which the first section (13) is connected to a steering shaft (1) and the second section (14) is connected to a steering column (6), fixed in relation to the steering shaft (1), the contact roller (10) comprising at least one electrical conductor, which is arranged between the first and the second section (13, 14). A second housing (11) is divided up into a first and second element (19, 20) of which the first element (19) is connected to the steering shaft (1). The second element (20) of the second housing (11) is detachably connected to the second section (14) of the first housing (9).Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Bjorn Andersson, Bjorn Antonsson
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Patent number: 6884083Abstract: An electrical connector for providing an electrical connection between the body of a cordless electrical appliance and a base which in use is connected to an electrical supply has a male connector part (10), and a female connector part (12), the female connector part (12) comprising recesses (28, 26, 24) into which electrical contacts (30, 42, 52) extend, and the male connector part comprising electrical contacts (60, 62, 64) for engaging the contacts within the recesses of the female connector, allowing engagement of the male and female connector parts over 3600 of relative rotational orientation, wherein the female connector part (12) is provided with an isolating switch or switches connected to the electrical contacts having movable switch actuators (40, 50) extending into an annular recess (22) on the connector and disposed spaced from each other, and wherein the male connector part is provided with an annular surface arranged to protrude into said recess to engage the actuators and close said switches seType: GrantFiled: June 12, 2002Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Kettle Solutions LimitedInventor: Martin J. Shepherd
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Patent number: 6789653Abstract: A contact structure includes a fixed contact set, said fixed contact set having a stepped cap and a plurality of contact rings of different diameters respectively mounted in annular steps of the stepped cap and respectively connected to the conductors of a fixed cable, and a movable contact set, the movable contact set having a stepped shaft rotatably inserted into the stepped cap, spring members mounted in peripheral holes in the steps of the stepped shaft, and arched contact plates respectively connected to the conductors of a movable cable and respectively supported on the spring members and forced by the spring members into contact with the contact rings of the fixed contact set.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2003Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jung-Hui Hsu, Chia-Cheng Wei
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Publication number: 20040014333Abstract: A switch assembly usable in a food waste disposer is disclosed having several improvements over the prior art. The switch assembly positively retains an overload switch, making assembly of the switch into the disposer easier. The switch assembly includes terminals, which attach to the start and run windings of the disposer. The terminals are arranged in a uniform direction along a single side of the switch assembly. This arrangement allows a single, integrated connector of winding leads to be easily connected to the switch assembly, facilitating assembly and reducing the possibility of incorrectly wiring the disposer during construction.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2003Publication date: January 22, 2004Inventors: Scott W. Anderson, James Hansche, Michael Beers
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Publication number: 20030232515Abstract: An electrical connector for providing an electrical connection between the body of a cordless electrical appliance and a base which in use is connected to an electrical supply has a male connector part (10), and a female connector part (12), the female connector part (12) comprising recesses (28, 26, 24) into which electrical contacts (30, 42, 52) extend, and the male connector part comprising electrical contacts (60, 62, 64) for engaging the contacts within the recesses of the female connector, allowing engagement of the male and female connector parts over 3600 of relative rotational orientation, wherein the female connector part (12) is provided with an isolating switch or switches connected to the electrical contacts having movable switch actuators (40, 50) extending into an annular recess (22) on the connector and disposed spaced from each other, and wherein the male connector part is provided with an annular surface arranged to protrude into said recess to engage the actuators and close said switches seType: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2002Publication date: December 18, 2003Inventor: Martin J. Shepherd
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Patent number: 6638074Abstract: A compact electrical socket with a rotating plug receptacle is provided that minimizes the amount of material required to facilitate full 360 degree rotation of the receptacle. The socket has a body with an interior into which the rotating receptacle is positioned. Pins on the exterior wall of the receptacle move within a body interior groove, positioning a receptacle forward base against a body base. The body base has stationary contact elements including a centrally positioned element and two radially disposed stationary contact elements. The receptacle base has rotating contact elements including a centrally positioned element and two radially disposed rotating contact elements, all three in continuous electrical contact as the receptacle moves through a 360 degree rotation. The corresponding rotating radially disposed contacts form arcs having lengths summing to less than 370 degrees but more than 360 degrees. The socket can be used in walls, extension cords, etc.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: October 28, 2003Inventor: Gregory S Fisher
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Patent number: 6514087Abstract: A rotary electric part is disclosed which permits standardization of components and which is inexpensive. A shaft member and a rotary member are formed as separate members, so both can be fabricated separately and then combined together, whereby the standardization of components can be attained and it is possible to provide a less expensive rotary electric part.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Junichi Kuratani
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Patent number: 6489702Abstract: An alternator adapted for use with a motor vehicle includes rotor assembly and a stator assembly, which may be like the rotor and state assemblies of brush-type alternators, and also a contact assembly that includes two relatively low-friction, electrically conductive, ball bearing assemblies that are adapted to conduct the DC exciting current for the alternator and that are electrically isolated from each other. Each ball bearing assemblies include inner and outer races that are electrically connected to each other by a plurality of bearing balls and by electrically conductive grease which is packed about the balls. The inner race of each ball bearing is rotatably secured to the rotary shaft of the rotor assembly and is connected to electrical leads which, in turn, are connected with the rotor assembly. The outer race of each ball bearing is fixed relative to the rotary shaft and is connected with a storage battery.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2000Date of Patent: December 3, 2002Assignee: Prestolite ElectricInventor: Daniel E. Bartman
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Patent number: 6343963Abstract: An electrical connector for connecting an electrical cable to a conductive member having a first member electrically coupled to the electrical cable, a second member, and a threaded screw. The first member has a rod, a projection and a distal end and the second member has a threaded passageway, and two arms swaged around the rod and engaging the projection, allowing the first and second members to rotate relative to one another. The threaded screw engages the threaded passageway and can be threaded onto engagement with the projection, which in turn tightly engages the arms of the second member, thereby preventing relative rotation of the first member and the second member. Due to the large surface contact area, a low voltage drop occurs across the connector.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2000Date of Patent: February 5, 2002Assignee: Cableco Technologies CorporationInventor: Arthur H. Bronk
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Patent number: 5468153Abstract: A rotatable electrical connector or swivel is used in a substantially vertical subterranean portion of a drill string within a drill pipe. The swivel has an enclosed oil filled chamber having a first shaft concentrically mounted therein. The first shaft protrudes from the chamber and is electrically connected to one end of a wireline which is used for electrical connection between the surface and instruments located downhole. Within the interior of the oil filled chamber the first shaft is attached to a first member disposed within the complementary surface of a second member concentrically aligned with the first member. The second member includes a second shaft which protrudes from the oil filled chamber and is connected to the other end of the wireline. One of the two shafts is rotatably mounted in bearing within the chamber so that the complementary surfaces of the first and second members are in the relationship of a rotor and stator.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1993Date of Patent: November 21, 1995Assignee: Drilling Measurements, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Brown, John D. Holodnak, Gene McBride, Demmie L. Mosley
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Patent number: 5261514Abstract: A grounding cable reel for grounding a vehicle of the type used to service electrical power lines includes a reel assembly incorporating a conductive slip ring capable of conducting very large, short term ground fault loads, i.e., on the order of 20,000 amps. A first cable connected at one end to the vehicle's frame is coupled at its second end to a copper rod which extends through a hollow shaft which supports the reel such as for mounting to the vehicle. The copper rod is coupled to a conductive inner hub of the slip ring which is mounted to an end of the hollow support shaft. Rotationally coupled to the inner hub is an outer conductive swivel to which a first end of a second cable is coupled, while the second end of the second cable may be coupled to a grounding post or other grounded object. The second cable is disposed about the reel which is coupled to the outer swivel and rotates therewith.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 1992Date of Patent: November 16, 1993Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.Inventor: Maurice Evans