Means To Join Conduit, Duct Or Conductor Sections Patents (Class 439/210)
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Patent number: 6341875Abstract: A decorative lighting assembly includes a plurality of illuminating units each having an illuminator detachably mounted thereon, a plurality of connecting frame each having at least two connectors for selectively and electrically connecting the illuminating units together to form a specify shape. Accordingly, the decorative lighting assembly enables the user to customize the arrangement of the illuminating units to form a 2D, 3D, and other specify decorative figures.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2000Date of Patent: January 29, 2002Inventor: Jack Shao-Chun Chu
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Patent number: 6281434Abstract: A simplified extensible raceway for electrical outlets including a cutable raceway that includes an electrical extension cord that can plug into an existing outlet and be extended in any direction by connection within the raceway to electrical outlet box(es) that engage the raceway and an existing supporting structure. The raceway and associated electrical outlet system can be extended by the addition of additional pairs of electrical extension cords having both male and female ends connected to additional electrical outlets.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2001Date of Patent: August 28, 2001Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 6203343Abstract: The present invention relates to a cabling arrangement for motorized vehicles and similar comprising a system for electrical power supply and a system of data transmission via a busbar (1) to which components signals are addressed separately using a multiplexing process. This arrangement has at least one busbar (1) with at least two power conductors (2, 3) for the supply of electrical power to components and at least two conductors (4) used by the busbar data transmission system (1). All the conductors (2,3,4) are in the form of metal strips and are separated one from another by insulating sheet material (5) and assembled in a laminated or “sandwich” structure, each component or a secondary busbar taking off control or power current from the busbar through their respective connectors.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1999Date of Patent: March 20, 2001Assignee: Framatome Connectors InternationalInventors: Alain Chevassus-More, Christian Pernot
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Patent number: 6180878Abstract: A simplified extensible raceway for electrical outlets including a cutable raceway that includes an electrical extension cord that can plug into an existing outlet and be extended in any direction by connection within the raceway to electrical outlet box(es) that engage the raceway and an existing supporting structure. The raceway and associated electrical outlet system can be extended by the addition of additional pairs of electrical extension cords having both male and female ends connected to additional electrical outlets.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1999Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 6176711Abstract: A connector for coupling two contact line segments positioned in end-to-end alignment and made of elongate plastic profiles for accommodating current conductor rails which cooperate with a current collector vehicle traveling inside the contact line segments, includes a coupling sleeve made of plastic material for positively enveloping the contact line segments in an area of their confronting ends, with the ends of the contact line segments being freely shiftable in a longitudinal direction within a predetermined range. The coupling sleeve is split in a direction transversely to the longitudinal direction so as to define two sleeve members which are detachably connected to one another, wherein one of the sleeve members can be placed on one of the confronting ends of the contact line segments and the other one of the sleeve members can be placed on the other one of the confronting ends of the contact line segments, before the contact line segments are joined.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1999Date of Patent: January 23, 2001Assignee: Mannesmann AGInventors: Michael Röhr, Thomas Kohlenberg, Uwe Schulte, Klaus-Dieter Oemus
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Patent number: 6146169Abstract: Electrical power distribution busway joints include opposing plates of conductive and non-conductive materials for connecting between adjoining busway sections. The non-conductive plates comprise glass-filled epoxy laminate sheets having high thermal conductivity, high electrical resistance and good mechanical strength in the presence of excess moisture.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: William H. Calder, Gary Douville, Andre M'Sadoques, Joseph Nagy
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Patent number: 6022231Abstract: A sectionalized electrical distribution feeder system for carrying electrical power from a source point to a use point or a distribution point. Each section of the distribution system includes a cylindrical enclosure capable of being easily cut with a handsaw. The enclosure also provides support and protection from physical damage to a plurality of electrical conductors that are disposed within the enclosure. The conductors are held firmly in place by a continuous electrically insulating support that snugly fits inside the enclosure. Each conductor can be easily cut with a metal cutting hand saw, and is enclosed in an electrically insulating sheath, a portion of which can be removed from a newly cut end to provide a contact surface. A joint connecting member is provided for electrically connecting the conductors of adjacent sections of the electrical distribution feeder system.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 1998Date of Patent: February 8, 2000Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Patrick Williams, Rodney J. West, Anthony S. Locker, Daniel G. Witt, Daniel L. Wittmer
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Patent number: 6002089Abstract: A non-linear raceway section for containing fiber optic and Category 5 signal conductors and formed by intersecting raceway runs coupled together in a region of intersection defines a non-linear raceway channel having an exposed angular corner therein. A radiused insert releasably retained within the raceway channel defines a portion of the channel and isolates the angular corner from the channel.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1997Date of Patent: December 14, 1999Assignee: The Wiremold CompanyInventors: Jeffrey D. Hemingway, Steven Pawson
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Patent number: 5981872Abstract: An accessory of any kind, for example an end-cap, is designed to be fitted to the base of trunking. To make the retention of the end-cap to the trunking more firm, at least one thickness-increasing device is fitted to its base, before the end-cap, and forms a localized increased thickness on the base. Applications include moldings.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignees: Legrand, Legrand SNCInventors: Bertrand Decore, Fran.cedilla.ois Perrignon De Troyes
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Patent number: 5785542Abstract: An electrical bus assembly, having pairs of bus conductors in communication with each other, housed in a housing, for use in an industrial setting. The pairs of bus conductors are themselves used to form a joint without the need of additional apparatus. A first coupling embodiment provides a two-piece clamp having a built-in depression formed therein for applying additional clamping pressure when bolted to the housing surrounding a layered pair of bus conductors. Mylar.TM. film is provided for insulating the pair of bus conductors from both the housing and other pairs of bus conductors within a bus assembly. The electrical bus assembly is adaptable to a variety of electrical loads, and is reusable. A second coupling embodiment provides a slotted connecting bus conductor, received by a pair of stationary bus conductors housed in a panel box housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1997Date of Patent: July 28, 1998Assignee: QBC, Inc.Inventor: Terry M. Johnson
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Patent number: 5777270Abstract: An elbow for changing the run direction of a pre-bussed rigid conduit electrical distribution system. The elbow has a number of individually insulated electrical conductors each of which is formed to a predetermined angle. The conductors are enclosed within a hollow housing which is formed to the same predetermined angle such that it will enclose the electrical conductors. A uniform and continuous support is provided for that portion of each electrical conductor which is enclosed within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 1993Date of Patent: July 7, 1998Inventors: Rodney Joe West, Robert I. Whitney, Glenn S. O'Nan
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Patent number: 5760339Abstract: An electrical power distribution busway joint is shown and described. The joint is configurable to electrically couple the phase busbars, the neutral busbar(s) and the ground busbars of adjacent busway sections. Each of the phase and neutral busbars from adjacent busway sections are in electrical contact with the inside surfaces of a pair of rectangular connector plates. The connector plates are fabricated from a conductive material to include at least one opening and a spacing tab fabricated from at least a portion of the material removed from the plate to form the hole. The spacing tabs of the plates cooperate to maintain a space between the plates which facilitates insertion of a busbar into the space. The tabs also prevent over-insertion of busbars into the joints which may damage insulating material within the joint. The outside surfaces of the connector plates are each engaged by a rectangular insulator formed from a section of pultruded insulating material.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1993Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.Inventors: Nathan Hoyt Faulkner, Ronald David Nordenbrock
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Patent number: 5723820Abstract: An device for changing the run direction of a pre-bussed rigid conduit electrical distribution system. The device has a number of electrical conductor assemblies which are substantially enclosed within a hollow housing. The housing has three legs which are integrally joined at a common point. Each leg has an associated end from which an equal length of each electrical conductor assembly extends. A uniform and continuous support is provided for that portion of each electrical conductor assembly which is enclosed within the housing.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1994Date of Patent: March 3, 1998Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Robert I. Whitney, Lisa C. Simmering, Aubrey Bryant, Glenn S. O'Nan, Rodney Joe West, Larry T. Shrout
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Patent number: 5681171Abstract: A multiple pin cable connector for mating with a receptacle is disclosed, in which the connector has housing defining a turning hollow, and a head, the lower body portion of which is inserted in the hollow of the housing. The head includes an engagement portion for mating with the receptacle. The attachment of the head to the housing enables pivoting of the head in first and second directions. Wires connected to a signal cable and contained in the housing are separated and threaded through openings formed along the central axis to contact the corresponding pins for enabling electrical continuity between the cable and the receptacle. The housing and head are coupled by means a pivotable coupling along a central axis, enabling the respective part to pivot in a limited angle.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 1995Date of Patent: October 28, 1997Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Seon-kyu Park
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Patent number: 5619014Abstract: An electric busbar for use with an electrical power distribution busway system which includes a press formed plug-in tab configured for attachment to a connector at a power tap-off section of the busway is described. The busbar has a substantially rectangular cross-section, a length, a width defined by a pair of edges, and a thickness defined by a top side and a bottom side. The plug-in tab is formed by pressing the conductive material in a direction generally perpendicular to the top and bottom sides until material is displaced outwardly from at least one of the edges. Depressions are formed in the bar of conductive material at the location of the press formed tab. In the most preferred embodiment, the volume of the depressions is substantially equal to the volume of the material in the tab.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 1993Date of Patent: April 8, 1997Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.Inventor: Nathan H. Faulkner
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Patent number: 5592749Abstract: The present invention is a hair dryer apparatus combination designed to allow for detachable and interchangeable arms and bases to hold an electric hair dryer for hands free operation in a variety of situations.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Inventor: Karen Trimmer
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Patent number: 5559681Abstract: A flexible, self-adhesive, lighting system includes a continuous length of flexible, self-adhesive, light emissive material, cuttable into segments of light emissive material, each segment including a plurality of light emitting diodes serving as light emissive devices. The segments are electrically coupled by different shaped couplers, for forming a variety of configurations of light emissive material, and further coupled to a source of power. Each coupler includes at least two electrical conductors for conducting power from one segment of light emissive material to a coupled segment or a source of power. Each of the light emissive devices may be covered by one clear or colored lens. Alternatively, multiple light emissive devices, of the same or different color, may be covered by one lens. Further, steady or intermittent power from a power control unit may be supplied to each light emissive device for providing different lighting sequences and colors.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 1994Date of Patent: September 24, 1996Assignee: CNC Automation, Inc.Inventor: Noah G. Duarte
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Patent number: 5550720Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree with electric separable segments comprising a trunk fabricated of a plurality of separable sections including a lowermost section, an uppermost section and intermediate sections therebetween, the section coupling with respect to each other by sliding the lower section of the next higher adjacent section into the upper extent of the next lower adjacent section, a plurality of branches, each with a pivot pin coupled to an adjacent portion of an associated trunk section to allow movement between a raised inoperative storage position parallel with the trunk sections a deployed operative position wherein the branches form an acute angle with its associated trunk section, each of the branches having artificial needles extending therefrom in a generally radial direction, a base adapted to be positioned on the recipient surface such as a floor, the base having an upper central section adapted to removably receive the lower extent of the lowermost trunk section, electrical components in eaType: GrantFiled: June 26, 1995Date of Patent: August 27, 1996Inventor: Grant A. Carroll
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Patent number: 5516302Abstract: An end feed connector for connecting a plurality of feed lines to a pre-bussed rigid conduit which has feed line connectors that fit in slots in an insulating housing. Within the housing, the slots communicate with conductive sleeves that are disposed in the pattern of the pre-bussed rigid conduit with which the end feed connector is intended to mate. Bus bars within the housing connect the feed line connectors to the sleeves.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 1994Date of Patent: May 14, 1996Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Han Kim, Aubrey Bryant, Steven F. Reed, Robert I. Whitney
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Patent number: 5484300Abstract: A sectionalized electrical distribution feeder system for carrying electrical power from a source point to a use point or a distribution point. Each section of the distribution system includes a substantially cylindrical enclosure capable of being easily cut with a hand saw. The enclosure also provides support and protection from physical damage to a plurality of electrical conductors which are disposed within the enclosure. The conductors are held firmly in place by a number of electrically insulating supports which snugly fit inside the enclosure. Each conductor can be easily cut with a metal cutting hand saw, and is enclosed in an electrically insulating sheath which can be removed from a newly cut end to provide a contact surface. A joint connecting member is provided for electrically connecting the conductors of adjacent sections of the electrical distribution feeder system. A joint cover connects the two adjacent enclosures together and provides additional protection for the joint connecting member.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 1993Date of Patent: January 16, 1996Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Robert I. Whitney, Lisa C. Simmering, Glenn S. O'Nan, Aubrey Bryant, Steven F. Reed
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Expansion joint for an electrical conduit which is electrically grounded through the expansion joint
Patent number: 5466890Abstract: Two electrical conduit sections are attached to a thermal expansion joint which permits relative axial movement between the conduit sections. One of the conduit sections has an end portion which is axially slidably disposed inside of the expansion joint. A ring shaped grounding element is mounted on a screw thread formed in that slidable end portion and is disposed in sliding connection with a cylindrical surface of the joint which surrounds the slidable end portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1994Date of Patent: November 14, 1995Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.Inventor: Brian M. Stagnitti -
Patent number: 5415558Abstract: The present invention provides a means for electrically connecting the corresponding conductors of two adjacent sections of a multi-phase electrical distribution system. The electrical connecting device has a body with two ends and defines a hollow passage connecting the two ends. A conductor clamping plates is slidably received within the passage. A number of electrical connectors are fixedly attached to the clamping plate such that each conductor receiving pocket includes one electrical connector. The clamping plate is selectively movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position electrical conductors from the two adjacent sections may be inserted into the passage at their associated ends of the connecting device. In the second position the conductors are clamped between the passage and the electrical conductors such that conductors from one section sharing common electrical connectors with conductors of the other section are electrically connected together.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1994Date of Patent: May 16, 1995Assignee: Square D CompanyInventor: David R. Baker
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Patent number: 5404279Abstract: A permanent lighting trim assembly features linearly interconnected trim members having a hollow body containing lights and an openable reflective cover member which permits the lights to be displayed at the appropriate season. The lights are protected during the remainder of the year when the cover panel is closed and the lights are hidden. The assembly includes standard length elongated trim members, corner members for extending a trim line around a corner, an adjustable trim member and a multiply adjustable trim member which may also contain lights which are hidden beneath an openable cover member. Each of the components has interconnected plug members at the ends which are notched to form a half-lap for a lap joint which facilitates electrical interconnection of the components along the trim line of the house. An unobtrusive lap joint is formed between components which have body configurations which match each other so that the assembled trim members look like a unified structure along the trim line.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 1994Date of Patent: April 4, 1995Inventor: Johnny L. Wood
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Patent number: 5401906Abstract: This present invention provides an inexpensive and easily installed supplementary joint cover system for preventing dripping or splashing water from entering the joint between two adjacent sections of electrical busway. Each busway section includes a housing having an enclosure for surrounding and protecting a plurality of electrical conductors. A pair of housing sides are attached to and spaced apart by the enclosure such that two generally U-shaped troughs are formed. The joint cover system includes four dam assemblies, four sealing strips, two cover plates, two inspection hole plugs, and two connecting channels. Each of the two adjacent busway sections requires two dam assemblies to seal the busway housing at the joint. The dam assemblies form a water resistant block in the troughs formed by the busway housing. The sealing strips are placed across the dam assemblies and provide a seal for the cover plates.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1993Date of Patent: March 28, 1995Assignee: Square D CompanyInventor: Aubrey Bryant
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Patent number: 5399095Abstract: A device for resolving axial and angular misalignments between electrical conductors of adjacent sections of a pre-bussed rigid conduit electrical feeder system. The variable phase positioning device includes a flexible housing with an end piece attached to each end. A number of flexible electrical conductors are enclosed within the housing. Each conductor is enclosed in an electrically insulating sheath. A substantially rigid terminal is fixedly attached to each end of each conductor. At each end of the housing the terminals are loosely captivated within a terminal support such that each terminal can rotate freely. The terminal supports are made from an electrically insulating material. A retaining sleeve is loosely received over each terminal support and attached to the end piece in a manner that permits the terminal supports to rotate freely within the retaining sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 1994Date of Patent: March 21, 1995Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Rodney J. West, Lisa C. Simmering
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Patent number: 5322444Abstract: The known arrangements of low-voltage energy distribution include connecting elements for busbar trunking systems with which, while a change of direction is possible, the currents are limited. The new device is intended to make it possible to easily change directions, even with high currents. To achieve this object, the invention teaches that the busbars at the junction site are placed in such a way around a common tensioning element that they can be rotated.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 1992Date of Patent: June 21, 1994Assignee: Klockner-Moeller GmbHInventors: Karsten Audehm, Eckhard Ammann
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Patent number: 5266044Abstract: A sectionalized electrical distribution feeder system for carrying electrical power from a source point to a use point or a distribution point. Each section of the distribution system includes a substantially cylindrical enclosure capable of being easily cut with a hand saw. The enclosure also provides support and protection from physical damage to a plurality of electrical conductors which are disposed within the enclosure. The conductors are held firmly in place by a number of electrically insulating supports which snugly fit inside the enclosure. Each conductor can be easily cut with a metal cutting hand saw, and is enclosed in an electrically insulating sheath which can be removed from a newly cut end to provide a contact surface. A joint connecting member is provided for electrically connecting the conductors of adjacent sections of the electrical distribution feeder system. A joint cover connects the two adjacent enclosures together and provides additional protection for the joint connecting member.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1992Date of Patent: November 30, 1993Inventors: Robert I. Whitney, Lisa C. Simmering, Glenn S. O'Nan
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Patent number: 5261830Abstract: This invention relates to an electrical connection device comprising conductive bars of electrical conduits and further comprising, on the one hand, conductive splicing pads each joining ends of the conductive bars aligned end to end and, on the other hand, insulating splice elements that are inserted between the conductive bars so as to insulate them. The stack made of the inserted insulating elements and of the splicing pads on the conductive bar ends is tightened by a common bolt-type tightening element that goes through them. Further, at least one of the splicing pads comprises at least one separable part so that this separable splicing pad part can be removed and replaced with a branch output device.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 1993Date of Patent: November 16, 1993Assignee: TelemecaniqueInventors: Gerard Jego, Jean-Yves Teinturier, Jean-Pierre Thierry
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Patent number: 5208569Abstract: A unisex coupler assembly is disclosed capable of providing a leak tight coupling for waveguides with axial alignment of the waveguides and rotational capability. The sealing means of the coupler assembly are not exposed to RF energy, and the coupler assembly does not require the provision of external flanges on the waveguides. In a preferred embodiment, O ring seals are not used and the coupler assembly is, therefore, bakeable at a temperature up to about 150.degree. C. The coupler assembly comprises a split collar which clamps around the waveguides and a second collar which fastens to the split collar. The split collar contains an inner annular groove. Each of the waveguides is provided with an external annular groove which receives a retaining ring. The split collar is clamped around one of the waveguides with the inner annular groove of the split collar engaging the retaining ring carried in the external annular groove in the waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1992Date of Patent: May 4, 1993Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Dimartino Michelangelo, Charles P. Moeller
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Patent number: 5206461Abstract: An arrangement for connecting aligned sections of a bus bar includes connecting pieces of approximately rectangular basic shape. Crown-rounded contact surfaces are provided at the ends of the connecting pieces to rest on the narrow sides of the rectangular profile of the bus bars. Two contact surfaces flanked by elevations are provided on one of the sides of the connecting piece, while two pairs of contact surfaces are provided on the opposite side. To connect the sections of single bus bars, the connecting pieces are used in such a manner that the sections are flanked by the elevations, while to connect double bus bars the reversed position is provided, in which elevations between the pairs of contact surfaces are situated between the parallel sections of the bus bar set.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 1991Date of Patent: April 27, 1993Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Rolf-Gunter Genzel, Karl-Josef Zeimetz
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Patent number: 5152698Abstract: A floor track system is provided to route utilities to workstations in open office plans, and the like. The floor track system includes a plurality of individual floor track segments, each of which has a hollow interior in which the utilities are housed and isolated. Each floor track segment also includes feet which independently support the track segment on the floor in a generally upright orientation, and an exterior shape which physically mates with the furniture units in the workstation, without supporting the same. Opposite ends of the floor track segments are detachably interconnected in a predetermined configuration to form a continuous, self-contained and self-supported utility raceway that is physically separate from the furniture units, yet dimensionally cooperates and blends in with them. Utility taps can be located throughout the floor track system to provide utilities to each of the workstations as required.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 1989Date of Patent: October 6, 1992Assignee: Steelcase Inc.Inventors: Gary S. Juhlin, Michael L. Deimen, Edmund X. Klipa
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Patent number: 5122072Abstract: A connector for electrically connecting a plurality of electrical conductors of a first busway section to a plurality of electrical conductors of a second busway section. The electrical connection is accomplished by a plurality of pairs of electrical joint connectors, each pair having an independently operable rotational clamping mechanism for clamping that pair of joint connectors tightly to corresponding electrical conductors of the first and second busway sections. An activating cap is used to manually rotate the clamping mechanism between a first and second position. In the first position the pairs of joint connectors are clamped tightly to the busway conductors. In the second position the pairs of joint connectors are loosened permitting an easy insertion or removal of the busway conductors. The pairs of joint connectors of opposite polarity are separated from each other by a phase insulator. Phase insulators also separate the electrical phases from a protective enclosure surrounding the busway.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1990Date of Patent: June 16, 1992Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Gary D. Arn, Gilbert A. McGoldrick, Glenn S. O'Nan, Lisa C. Simmering
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Patent number: 5107408Abstract: A lighting system includes a plurality of modular components, comprising elongate strips of different finite lengths having elongate lighting circuits therein and connector means for connecting adjacent strips end to end and electrically connecting the lighting circuits thereon to enable a voltage to be applied across a series of illuminating devices provided at predetermined spaced locations along the length of the strips so connected. The illuminating devices on each strip are connected in series and the series connected illuminating devices associated with each strip are connected in parallel with the series connected illuminating devices associated with each of the other strips. The series connection of the illuminating devices associated with the respective strips are balanced so that they are voltage compatible with one another. In some embodiments a plurality of series connected illuminating devices are provided on each strip.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1991Date of Patent: April 21, 1992Assignee: Consumerville LimitedInventor: David R. Vernondier
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Patent number: 5096429Abstract: This system for building up electrified lines in the form of double-voltage exposed modules for supporting user appliances, particularly lighting lamps for interior environments, is formed from track pieces of standardized length along which conductors extend to form electrical lines, said track pieces being connectable together with the aid of interposable means including a prismatic box of square cross-section which is open at one of its ends to form various geometrical configuration suggested by aesthetic and/or functional requirements, and being combinable with supports for user appliances, particularly lamps of various types, along their entire length.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1990Date of Patent: March 17, 1992Assignee: DIL S.r.l.Inventor: Alberto Fraser
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Patent number: 5063473Abstract: An electrical distribution system for factories and offices is assembled from prewired modules. The basic module comprises a section of duct of a standard length with electrical feeder wires mounted therein. The wires are bared of insulation at one end and have connectors at the other to receive the insulation-free wire ends of an adjacent module. Some modules may also include prewired branch circuits with circuit breakers and outlets in a variety of configurations.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 1989Date of Patent: November 5, 1991Assignee: AT&T Bell LaboratoriesInventors: James R. Hall, Lorin E. Hunter, Terry D. Wilson
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Patent number: 5032086Abstract: A wiring harness is disclosed for deploying electrical wires along a wall such as in a modular wall panel system for separating work areas. The wall has an elongate compartment defining a raceway for housing the wires. A first power block is positioned in the raceway at a first location and includes a given number of wires extending therefrom into the raceway. A second power block is positioned in the raceway at a second location longitudinally spaced from the first power block. The second power block has a different number of wires extending therefrom into the raceway toward the first power block. Splicing connectors electrically couple at least some of the wires between the two power blocks.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1990Date of Patent: July 16, 1991Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventors: David M. Skowronski, Robert W. DeRoss, Michael J. O'Connell
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Patent number: 4994944Abstract: A lighting system includes a plurality of modular components, each comprising an elongate strip of finite length, supporting or constituting an elongate lighting circuit extending along the strip and connector means for connecting adjacent strips end to end, and electrically connecting the lighting circuits thereon to enable a voltage to be applied across a series of illuminating devices provided at predetermined spaced locations along the length of the strips so connected. Preferably, the illuminating devices on each strip are connected in series, and the series connected illuminating devices associated with each strip are connected in parallel with the series connected illuminating devices associated with each of the other strips.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 1989Date of Patent: February 19, 1991Assignee: Consumerville LimitedInventor: David R. Vernondier
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Patent number: 4979906Abstract: A housing for enclosing a weatherproof busway joint. The housing includes a pair of end pieces which are attached to and sealed to a busway enclosure near the joint. The busway enclosure houses, supports, and protects a plurality of electrical conductors enclosed therein and extends through an opening about in the center of the end piece. A pair of joint covers enclose the joint area between the two end pieces. A material which forms the sealing medium between the end pieces and the busway enclosures and between the joint covers and the end pieces. The weatherproof joint covers are placed between the end pieces of two adjoining busway sections such that the joint area is completely enclosed and sealed by the end piece and joint covers to prevent the ingress of water.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 1990Date of Patent: December 25, 1990Assignee: Square D CompanyInventors: Larry T. Shrout, Allan E. Slicer
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Patent number: 4950841Abstract: An electric power bus removable joint includes three spacer-connectors that automatically align the intervening splice plates and insulative plates used to electrically connect between adjoining busway sections. The spacer-connectors automatically attach between the opposing joint face plates without requiring any additional fastening means.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 1989Date of Patent: August 21, 1990Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Clarence W. Walker, David A. Hibbert
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Patent number: 4919625Abstract: Track lighting apparatus is disclosed which includes a track section, plug box and plug connector designed to incorporate two lighting circuits independently controllable within the same track section. The track section includes a neutral bus and a grounding bus on one lateral side and two independent voltage busses on its other lateral side. The head of the plug box inserted in a bottom slot running the longitudinal length of the track section, may be rotated into position in only one direction, thereby preventing inadvertent connection of neutral and grounding contacts to voltage busses and vice versa. The plug box head has a voltage contact which may be mechanically moved between two positions for alternative connection to either of the voltage busses of the track when the plug head is connected to the track.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 1988Date of Patent: April 24, 1990Assignee: Cooper Industries, Inc.Inventor: Leonard J. Coutre
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Patent number: 4909744Abstract: To minimize the number of vertically extending tab-shaped male terminals in busbar connection structure, that is, to maximize the busbar material yield or busbar arrangement density on an insulating plate, two busbars stacked with at least one insulating plate intervening between the two busbars are connected to each other by an elastic U-shaped connecting clip at end surfaces of the busbars or the insulating plate.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 1988Date of Patent: March 20, 1990Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventor: Motomu Muto
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Patent number: 4896939Abstract: Communication cable includes an optical fiber, a first tubular electrical conductor enclosing the optical fiber, a second tubular electrical conductor enclosing the first electrical conductor, and a dielectric support element disposed between the conductors for maintaining the conductors in a coaxial relationship, with a selected uniform electrical impedance therebetween. Connectors for coupling such cable include plug and receptacle modules for connecting respective electrical and optical elements in the cable.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1987Date of Patent: January 30, 1990Assignee: D. G. O'Brien, Inc.Inventor: Donald G. O'Brien
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Patent number: 4886940Abstract: A bus duct joint comprising a plurality of conductive links for joining the buses, a plurality of intervening insulators and a single pressure providing bolt passing through the links and the insulators and between the ends of the buses being joined to provide substantially uniform pressure on the surfaces of the buses. The intervening insulators align and retain the conductive links and locate the joint with respect to the buses.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 1988Date of Patent: December 12, 1989Assignee: Westinghouse Canada Inc.Inventors: Claude Gagnon, Claude Gelineau, Pierre Raymond, Zygmunt P. Krzelowski, George Galletly
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Patent number: 4875871Abstract: A modular electrical conductor system for electrical wiring including one or more discrete elongated generally rectilinear track or carrier members and a plurality of modular electrical elements which are selectively connectable with the carrier members to establish a selected electrical circuit, the various carrier members and modular elements having preassembled electrical conductors carried therein such that ends of the conductors are adapted for mating electrical connection while being continually shielded from contact by an installer.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 1904Date of Patent: October 24, 1989Assignee: National Service Industries, Inc.Inventors: Donald J. Booty, Sr., Donald J. Booty, Jr.
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Patent number: 4874322Abstract: A surface applied electrical raceway assembly comprising an extruded rear panel and an extruded cover which form a plurality of elongate compartments for deploying wires or other electrical conductors is disclosed. At any position along its length, the raceway can be attached to hanger brackets mounted on a wall. Continuous recesses including a tongue and groove configuration on the exterior of the rear panel and channels in at least one compartment permit attachment of the raceway to the hangers at any position and the installation of interfaces, such as standard duplex outlets, at any position along the raceway length. A storage compartment for receiving excess plug cables is also disclosed. The rear panel and the covers can be cut to length and together with accessory fittings can be used to form customized raceways with outlets at any desired location.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1987Date of Patent: October 17, 1989Assignee: AMP IncorporatedInventors: Frank P. Dola, Steven Feldman, John K. Erwin
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Patent number: 4859193Abstract: A joint for two electric current bus bars facing each other with one end each, includes similarly constructed sheet metal plug elements of rectangular cross section, respectively inserted in the bars, but projecting therefrom, and a U-shaped connecting element being a current conductor or an insulator clampingly engages the plug elements for interconnecting them, and having windows receiving strip like extensions of the plug element.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1984Date of Patent: August 22, 1989Assignee: Mannesmann AGInventors: Heinz Pfannkuche, Uwe Schulte
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Patent number: 4849581Abstract: The outer surfaces of adjoining electrical busway side frames are shaped to define a protruding rail extending along the vertical axis thereof. A pair of recessed channels formed within the inner surfaces of the side frames of an intervening busway joint receive the busway rails at opposing ends thereof. Clearance arranged within the respective busway joint channels allows lateral movement of the busway side frames relative to the busway joint. Slots are provided on the busway joint side frames for visual indication of the position of the busway rails.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 1988Date of Patent: July 18, 1989Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Harold F. Larkin, David A. Hibbert, Julie A. Beberman, Clarence W. Walker
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Patent number: 4781609Abstract: An electrical system for a wall system formed from a plurality of serially connected wall panels. Each panel has at least one electrical terminal mounted thereon, and the terminals are joined by electrical cables or flexible electrical connectors. The electrical system is a seven-conductor system employing three live and three neutral conductors for defining three separate electrical circuits each having a separate neutral. A portable power-tap unit, specifically a receptacle unit, can be plugged into the power block for selective engagement with any one of the three circuits. The power-tap unit has a connector portion which plugs into the power block, which connector portion is defined soley by three contacts. Two of the three contacts, namely the live and neutral contacts, are mounted on a carrier which is slidably supported on the power-tap housing so as to be slidably displaced between three selected positions so that the power-tap can be selectively joined to any one of the three circuits.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1986Date of Patent: November 1, 1988Assignee: Haworth, Inc.Inventors: Harold R. Wilson, David E. Nestell
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Patent number: 4728752Abstract: A reducing joint assembly which, when attached at one end thereof to a bus duct having a predetermined number of runs and at the other end thereof to a bus duct having a different number of runs, allows interconnection of these non-matching ducts without undue wasted length or materials. The reducing joint assembly includes one conventional single bolt coupler at each end thereof for each run to be connected at that respective end of the assembly. Connected between the respective single bolt couplers is a single reducer plate for each phase of the bus duct system. Each such reducer plate has tabs at each end, one for each single bolt coupler, so that the reducer plates in effect interconnect with the single bolt coupler in generally the same manner as do the bus plates of each bus duct. The apparatus also includes specialized joint covers for covering the joint thus created to prevent the entry of foreign objects.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 1986Date of Patent: March 1, 1988Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Loy A. Hicks, Jr., Edward P. Sherwood
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Patent number: 4722703Abstract: A bus bar connector for electrically connecting a number of aligned bus bar terminals to a similar number of aligned bus bar terminals is disclosed. The bus bar connector comprises at least one current conducting plate extending transversally across the bus bar terminals, and means for clamping such plate to the bus bar terminals.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 1987Date of Patent: February 2, 1988Assignee: Electrolyser Inc.Inventor: Arnold F. Hufnagl