Including Receptacle Patents (Class 439/211)
  • Patent number: 6948962
    Abstract: A receptacle for providing electrical power to an electrical power plug comprises a circuit selector for selecting one of several electrical circuits available to supply the receptacle. The circuit selector is electrically connected to a power terminal assembly, adapted for engagement with at least one power plug, through at least one flexible jumper. The flexible jumper enables the circuit selector to be moved to a preselected position for engagement with mating terminals corresponding to the selected circuit, through flexural movement of the jumpers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Innotec
    Inventors: Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra, Jason S. Elzinga, Ronald B. Peel
  • Patent number: 6939153
    Abstract: A power distribution block assembly has a plurality of electrical receptacles and a multi-port electrical power distribution block with at least three like longitudinally aligned connector receiving ports near one block end and at least three like longitudinally aligned additional connector receiving ports near a block end opposite the one block end. An intermediate one of one the ports is adapted to receive a power supply connector and a pair of the ports spanning the intermediate port are adapted to receiving corresponding electrical receptacles to thereby position the power supply connector intermediate and sandwiched between the receptacles. An intermediate one of the additional ports is also adapted to receive a jumper cable connector. A pair of the additional ports spanning the intermediate additional port, are each adapted to receive a corresponding additional electrical receptacle so that the jumper cable connector is located intermediate and sandwiched between the additional receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Shawn J. Kondas, Daniel L. Hayes
  • Patent number: 6936766
    Abstract: A two piece metal raceway has a cross sectional area to accommodate a given cable volume, and where an outlet device is to be mounted, a raised cover affords greater depth to avoid reduction in this cross sectional area. If the raceway includes adjacent raceways separated by a divider, the raised cover requires a divider as well. However, such a divider cannot interfere with the volume required for mounting the device in the raised cover in the associated raceway. The solution disclosed provides for a unique offset divider that accommodates the device in one raceway, yet leaves sufficient space for the wiring/cabling in the adjacent raceway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventor: Marc Galasso
  • Patent number: 6890219
    Abstract: A system and method of providing electrical energy to houses and buildings and the like, which reduces cable length requirements, is disclosed. The system comprises essentially continuously accessible bus duct system and polarized electric receptacle providing baseboard systems in combination. Practice of the method of installation of the present invention requires that only short runs of cabling are required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2005
    Inventors: Marc R. Mayer, E. Howard Mayer
  • Patent number: 6881083
    Abstract: A metal two piece raceway has a base with inturned marginal edges that receive cover segments designed to mold therewith. The cover segments are spaced at selected location to receive a device bracket therebetween, and the device bracket receives an outlet device that is connected to through wires in the raceway base the device bracket is secured in place by wings that define at least in part channels for receiving depending ribs formed for this purpose in a unique cover that locks the assembly in place in a manner that has both aesthetic and functional advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: Antonio J. Vargas, Joe A. Milheiro, James McClellan
  • Patent number: 6867373
    Abstract: A sprinkler and drip resistant tap-off base for an electrical busway distribution system. The tap-off base includes an overmolded perimeter seal providing a liquid resistant seal between the busway housing and the tap-off base and between the tap-off base and a tap-off unit installed on the tap-off base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventors: Rodney J. West, Glenn S. O'Nan
  • Patent number: 6830468
    Abstract: Electrification of a furniture system which has a plurality of structural elements, formed for receiving functional furniture units, comprises multiple plugs (21 or 31) which can be fastened to a part of the structural element and cables (22 or 32) which are carried on a part of the structural element. The cables (22 or 32) have a predetermined length and serve as an electrical connection between multiple plugs (21 or 31) of two neighboring structural elements. The structural elements are preferably closed frames (1, 2 or 19), which are formed from at least two vertical longitudinal struts (5 or 6) and at least two horizontally connecting stays (3 or 4). The multiple plugs (21 or 31) are clipped on the longitudinal struts (5 or 6), in longitudinal slots (7) arranged therein, in such a way that they can be displaced along the longitudinal slots (7). A set incrementation or a fastening means protruding from the longitudinal struts (5 or 6) may also be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: USM Holding AG
    Inventors: Alexander Schaerer, André Gerber, Antonio Cassani
  • Publication number: 20030159850
    Abstract: A modular electrical power block assembly includes four ports for receiving up to four individual circuit modules to simultaneously provide up to four separate electrical circuits. The four electrical circuits are formed from eight separate conductors arranged such that each electrical circuit has a separate live conductor, two of the electrical circuits have a first common neutral and a first common ground conductor, and two of the electrical circuits have a second common neutral and a second common ground conductor. The individual circuit modules are selectively removable and insertable into the four ports to complete one or more of the four electrical circuits, at the selection of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: David G. McCarthy
  • Patent number: 6541720
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electrical connection device for contacting conductor wires of a plurality of electrical conductors (12), running in a strip-like manner, of a conductor wire combination, with the conductor wires of electrical connection lines of an electrical consuming unit, in particular a light of a lighting strip system, whereby the connection device (13) has a coupling part to (13a) and a counter-coupling element (13b) having contact elements (16) which upon plugging together of the counter-coupling element (13b) with the coupling parts (13a) each make a current connection to associated conductor wires, whereby the contact elements (16) are arranged in two rows (R1, R2) extending transversely to the conductor wires and there is associated with one row (R1) a contact position selection device (25a) for displacing at least one contact element (16) between at least two neighbouring contact positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: Zumtobel Staff GmbH
    Inventors: Ladstätter Gerald, Gadner Wolfgang
  • Patent number: 6491410
    Abstract: A lighting strip system, including a carrier rail (3), which bounds a hollow space, to be mounted on a wall or ceiling, a plurality of electrical wires (12) running longitudinally in the hollow space, for the delivery of supply voltage and, if applicable, control signals. The lighting strip system also includes a plurality of coupling parts (13a) arranged in the hollow space with spacing in the longitudinal direction of the carrier rail (3). The coupling parts are electrically connected with the wires (12). A plurality of elongate lights (A1, A2, A3 . . . ) can be mounted one after another on the carrier rail in longitudinal direction. Electrical counter-coupling parts (13b) are provided on the lights (A1, A2, A3 . . . ) which when placed on the carrier rail (3) enter into the hollow space and make electrical plug contact with corresponding coupling parts (13a).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Zumtobel Staff GmbH
    Inventors: Gerald Ladstätter, Wolfgang Gadner
  • Patent number: 6402536
    Abstract: The branching connector fixing structure (20) has a pair of band-shaped frames (12) that are disposed apart in the direction of thickness, a plurality of flat circuit bodies (22) that are disposed respectively in layers between the band-shaped frames (12), and the branching connectors (24) that are respectively disposed on the flat circuit bodies (22), for the purpose of disposing of the branching connectors (24) along the same surfaces that are parallel to the respective band-shaped frames (12), wherein the branching connectors (24) is supported via a pair of fixing members (40), (50), bridging between the band-shaped frames (12) and fastenable in the predetermined position in the direction where each of the fixing members (40), (50) are disposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Masashi Tsukamoto, Masataka Nishijima, Mitsunobu Katoh
  • Patent number: 6375490
    Abstract: A receptacle for an elongated electrical raceway is oriented so that its ground receptacle lies either above or below the raceway's longitudinal centerline, presenting a convenient orientation for the plug, that is not commonly provided for in a raceway environment. The receptacle employs insulation displacement connectors offset so as to connect electrical wires running longitudinally through a raceway channel to the line and neutral and ground sockets at the receptacle's face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2002
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventor: Kelvin Yao
  • Patent number: 6364678
    Abstract: A power column providing a conduit for power and communications wiring in a building includes a column structure having electrical power outlets and video data modules (VDMs) accessible on opposite flat end faces of the column structure. An isolated electrical raceway within the column structure includes the electrical outlets. The column structure is pre-wired electrically with wiring that extends through the raceway to the top end of the structure. Pre-wiring allows the column to be installed and then connected to an electrical supply after installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems Limited
    Inventors: John Hellwig, Steve Verbeek, Paul Crossland, Michael Sherrard, Genadij Makarewicz, Lorie Marangoni
  • Patent number: 6350135
    Abstract: A power outlet for a divided channel raceway system and method for installation are provided wherein the power outlet includes a base mountable substantially over the communication channel of the raceway and a terminal interface arm for extending from the base into the power channel of the raceway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Assignee: University of Rochester
    Inventors: Mark A. Acklin, Mark A. Vogel
  • Patent number: 6270368
    Abstract: An electrical connection device with perpendicular Interlocking of a male part. The male part comprising at least one electrical connection contact with elastic blades forming a clamp and arranged in a contact-bearing casing. The male part is arranged, into a female part comprising at least one contact in the form of a blade. The male elastic blades forming a clamp of the contact or contacts coming to be positioned on both sides of the thickness of the corresponding blade of contact of the female part. The invention also covers the connector equipped with this device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2001
    Assignee: Framatome Connectors International
    Inventor: Frederic Duval
  • Patent number: 6123562
    Abstract: A modular electrical system for mounting on furniture components such as wall panels. The system includes modules which each include at least one power block provides increased electrical circuit capacity, which capacity in the preferred embodiment is at least six electrical circuits. The power block provides different groupings of circuits which are externally accessible, such as for connection to removable receptacle units, on opposite sides thereof. Flexible electrical connectors are provided for connection to and transmitting electrical power between power blocks of adjacent panels. Each connector transmits only one grouping of electrical circuits therethrough, whereby two such connectors are normally utilized for connection between adjacent power blocks of adjacent panels to transmit all electrical circuits therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. King, David E. Emery, Richard D. Benscoter
  • Patent number: 5967818
    Abstract: Electrical distribution duct with a signal transmission bus. Two bus connection parts that can be coupled with each other and associated with the support and the connector, respectively, are provided at branch connection support distributed along the duct. The connection part associated with the support includes two elastic contacts arms, built into an insulating body, to connect to each bus wire. Thus there are two contact points for each bus wire located at the ends of arms that come into contact with a rigid contact area laid out on a tab of the connector inserted in a support slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Schneider Electric SA
    Inventors: Jean-Claude Carron, Gerard Jego, Jean-Pierre Thierry
  • Patent number: 5942724
    Abstract: A raceway for both power and data communication wiring has a base with at least two forwardly open wireway channels that can be covered with covered segments that snap onto the base between outlet boxes of several different styles. These outlet boxes each have a back plate that snaps onto the raceway base so the base can be provided continuously along the wall without having to be cut to fit between outlet box locations. This outlet box back plate is made to receive the outlet box cover in a snap-on mode as well. The device or devices to be put in the outlet box are also capable of being snapped into place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: Thomas R. Russo, Antonio J. Vargas
  • Patent number: 5762525
    Abstract: An electrical wiring system for conducting electricity through an insulated casing is described. The electrical wiring system includes a substantially rigid conducting line having an insulating casing and a plurality of electrical conducting cells embedded in the insulating casing, each conducting cell comprising a metal conductor, and a substantially rigid connector for connecting to the conducting line, the connector comprising an insulating sheath and a plurality of insulated electrical conducting metal through-prongs recessed within the insulating sheath. The insulating casing and the connector plug-in to each other without hard-wiring. The electrical wiring system includes additional plug-in components such as electrical receptacle boxes and switches, corner adapters and power adapters which extend the system without hardwiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Inventor: Salvatore Candeloro
  • Patent number: 5715594
    Abstract: A portable peripheral card for an electrical device is disclosed that has an injected molded housing package. In one aspect of the invention, the peripheral card has a printed circuit board, a female electrical connector, and a solid one-piece injected molded package. The printed circuit board has electrical components mounted thereon and the female electrical connector is attached to the printed circuit board to permit communications between the electrical components on the printed circuit board and the electrical device. The solid one-piece package encapsulates the printed circuit board and the electrical components yet exposes a portion of the electrical connector to facilitate electrical connections between the printed circuit board and the electrical device. In one preferred embodiment, the portable peripheral card is a PCMCIA card. Methods of manufacturing such peripheral cards are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Assignee: National Semiconductor Corporation
    Inventors: Michael W. Patterson, Hem P. Takiar
  • Patent number: 5607317
    Abstract: A modular electrical system for mounting on furniture components such as wall panels. The system includes modules which each include at least one power block provides increased electrical circuit capacity, which capacity in the preferred embodiment is at least six electrical circuits. The power block provides different groupings of circuits which are externally accessible, such as for connection to removable receptacle units, on opposite sides thereof. Flexible electrical connectors are provided for connection to and transmitting electrical power between power blocks of adjacent panels. Each connector transmits only one grouping of electrical circuits therethrough, whereby two such connectors are normally utilized for connection between adjacent power blocks of adjacent panels to transmit all electrical circuits therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. King, David E. Emery, Richard D. Benscoter
  • Patent number: 5595494
    Abstract: A power strip supporting a plurality of power outlets for distributing power within an electronic cabinet or to an electronic rack has two identical housing pieces each having a right angle corner between a bulbous end and a groove end all of which extending the entire length of the housing, such that, when the bulbous ends are slidably inserted into the groove ends, the two pieces form a substantially square cross section of improve strength of construction having two tightly fitted mated corners and the two right angle corners all four of which are formed with a flange also extending the length of the power strip then adapted to received one or more clips which may be clipped onto the power strip on any one side and anywhere along the length of the power strip so that the power strip can be fastened by a hole in the clips to a cabinet or rack in a variety positions to face the power outlets in a variety of desired directions for ease of routing power wires which may be further routed through wiring routers
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Damac Products Inc
    Inventor: Donald G. Wiebe
  • Patent number: 5550720
    Abstract: 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 ea
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Inventor: Grant A. Carroll
  • Patent number: 5503565
    Abstract: A receptacle assembly for multi-wire, multi-circuit power distribution systems for modular wall panels has a body, at least one outlet formed in the body, at least one input plug formed in the body, the input plug have a plurality of openings therein, and three conductors, one line conductor, one neutral conductor, and one ground conductor. The conductors extend from the outlet to the input plug. At least one of the three conductors terminates in a plurality of terminals positioned adjacent a respective plurality of input plug openings. A circuit selector clip engages one of these terminals so that the conductor is connected to one of a plurality of input circuits of the power distribution system. A first end of the clip has a female terminal that matingly engages one of a plurality of male terminals formed on a conductor that allows selective connection. Dimples may be formed on the first end to assure secure engagement with the male terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Phillip A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 5357414
    Abstract: A cantilevered electrical light fixture (10) has a power supply line (30) running through it from a mounted end (17) to an internal connection zone (36) at a cantilevered end (18). A cover (52) closes the internal connection zone (36) and mounts a plug-half (40) and a switch (42), which are electrically connected to the power supply line (30). A light head (16) mounted to the cantilevered end (18) by a post (76) with a non-circular portion (78) and a threaded shank (80) has lamp wiring (110) connected to a plug-half (120) which releasably mates with the plug-half (40) mounted to the arm (12). A U-shaped bracket (116) mounts a socket (114) to a shell (84) of the light head (16) to bias the lamp bulb (154) against the shell (84).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Assignee: Phoenix Products Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark T. Dane, Henry J. Griesmer, Catherine Alexander, Peter M. Zimmerman, Pinkston S. Harper, Steven A. Nickel, Ronald A. Crawford, Donald J. Zach, Robert T. Jones, James F. Morton, Brian K. Johnston
  • Patent number: 5310355
    Abstract: Strip lighting assemblies are useful for supporting and illuminating light bulbs in a variety of contexts, including bookshelves and display cases, while maintaining the lighting hardware and wiring in relative obscurity, to avoid detracting from the display being illuminated. A strip lighting assembly is provided which arranges two conductive strips in vertical fashion, to achieve a relatively narrow and nonobtrusive assembly. A special socket design is also provided, which may accommodate a variety of light bulbs or power chords. The socket includes a movable insert which may be adjusted to alter the size of the receptacles of the socket, increasing the receptacle area to accommodate larger light bulb terminals or power chords, and decreasing the receptacle area to snugly fit smaller light bulb terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Inventor: Irmgard Dannatt
  • Patent number: 5277609
    Abstract: A power distribution system for office furniture includes a powerway having a power block with power block conductors therein. A intermediate connector block is supported on the power block and includes recesses for receiving outlet blocks having power outlets therein. The intermediate connector block may include a generally C-shaped housing which is assembled into the utility raceway between the top of the power block and the top of the utility raceway. In one embodiment powerway, cables includes woven sheaths. The woven sheaths are attached to a connector using a fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventor: Charles C. Ondrejka
  • Patent number: 5252086
    Abstract: A power distribution system for office furniture includes a powerway having a power block with power block conductors therein. A outlet block is supported on the powerway and includes outlets for the office furniture. The outlets are connected to different conductors in the powerway by a jumper. The powerway may include at least three first connectors on one end and at least one second connector on the other end. The first and second connectors interconnect thereby facilitating connection with other identical powerways. According to one aspect, one component includes a projection and another component includes a recess which facilitate connection of these components using a substantially flat implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Russell, Craig M. Anderson, Steven C. Deer, Mark T. Slager, David A. VanDyke, Charles C. Ondrejka, Jerry P. White
  • Patent number: 5213518
    Abstract: A bus bar carrying electrical plug connector (2) for mating with a receptacle connector (4) mounted to float in the back panel (P2) of a drawer containing a power supply distribution module, comprises the rear insulating housing member (6), a bus bar and contact assembly (8) and a front insulating housing member (10). The bus bar assembly (8) comprises bus bars (32) from a forward longitudinal edge of each of which projects a socket contact (34), the opposite edge of each bus bar (32) being formed with a notch (40). The rear housing member (6) has a back wall (12) provided with a row of alternating merlons (28) and ribs (30). The front housing member (10) has through cavities (52) each for receiving a respective contact (34) and rearwardly opening slots (60) communicating with the cavities (52) for receiving the bus bars (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1993
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventor: Charles H. Weidler
  • Patent number: 5203711
    Abstract: A power distribution system is disclosed for electrification of modular wall panels. The distribution system includes a track along a wall panel, a plurality of electrical power lines running along the track and defining a plurality of power distribution circuits, and a plug-receiving receptacle mounted adjacent the power lines for interconnection therewith. The invention contemplates receptacle contacts mounted on the receptacle, a plurality of circuit contacts interconnected with the power lines, and a plurality of interchangeable circuit control modules for selectively interchangeably interconnecting the plug-receiving receptacle with different power distribution circuits. The interchangeable circuit control modules include a plurality of control contacts of different arrays engageable between the receptacle contacts and different ones of the circuit contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventor: Steven B. Bogiel
  • Patent number: 5203713
    Abstract: A power distribution system includes a power outlet for connection to different power supply circuits in a power block when assembled thereto. The system includes a power block having arrays of openings on the front and back faces which are vertically staggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: Jay L. French, John L. Himes, Jr., James S. Hower, Douglas J. Pirc, Ronald M. Weber, James H. Wise
  • Patent number: 5203712
    Abstract: A power distribution system (2) for a raceway (6) of a wall panel comprises an outlet (8), a cable assembly (10), a junction box (12), a side-mount wiring device (14), and an end-mount wiring device (16) for connection to the junction box (12) as a self contained wiring branch adding an additional outlet receptacle (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: Jerry B. Kilpatrick, Mitchell E. Miller, Victor E. Slack
  • Patent number: 5192217
    Abstract: The improved plug-in base assembly of the present invention provides a means for complying with European Health and Safety requirements and particularly the requirement of IEC 439-1 paragraph 7.4.2.2. Subparagraph 7.4.2.2.3 generally requires that live parts be shielded such that they cannot be contacted when a door or cover normally protecting them is opened or removed. This requirement provides additional protection to the installer of a tap-off device against unintentional contact with the uninsulated edges of bus bars exposed through the plug-in openings. The additional protection is provided by a finger barrier which covers the normally exposed uninsulated edge of a bus bar. The finger barrier permits the electrical connectors of a tap-off unit to pass through the plug-in opening and make an electrical connection while preventing any unintentional contact of the installers fingers with the uninsulated edge of the bus bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1993
    Assignee: Square D Company
    Inventor: Daniel L. Wittmer
  • Patent number: 5186640
    Abstract: A wiring harness assembly includes a conductor carrying channel having a first end and a second end. A first socket is electrically coupled to the first end of the conductor carrying channel. A connector assembly is coupled to the second end of the conductor carrying channel. The connector assembly includes a body portion, a second socket coupled to the body portion and extending a first predetermined distance longitudinally outwardly from the body portion, and a third socket coupled to the body portion and extending a second predetermined distance, longer than the first predetermined distance, longitudinally outwardly from the body portion. The second and third sockets are configured to mate with a first socket coupled to a separate wiring harness assembly adjacent the second end of the conductor carrying channel to couple the two adjacent wiring harnesses electrically. The separate wiring harness assembly may be located in an adjacent wall panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: Group Dekko International
    Inventor: Phillip A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 5183406
    Abstract: Existing electrical outlet tracks require that the outlet be slid from one location to another along the track. The present invention provides a readily movable electrical receptacle which also discourages contact with the conductors. The receptacles of the present invention can be readily installed at any location along a baseboard conductor without sliding of the receptacle. This is accomplished using a T-shaped element which is inserted through the lengthwise groove of the continuous track and rotated into place. Screw-mounted bars are used to tighten the receptacle into place at the chosen location. Multiple raceways on a single baseboard, accommodating different types of receptacles, are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Inventor: Bryan D. Glen
  • Patent number: 5171159
    Abstract: An electrical junction assembly for use in the wall panels of a space-divider wall system includes a junction block having several receptacle connectors to provide a plurality of electrical outlets on both sides of a wall panel. The junction block is connected by means of conduits extending from both ends of the junction block to oppositely directed connector blocks for connection to adjoining panels. This assembly of junction block and connector blocks allows electrical power to be supplied to one end of the panel and conducted to and through the junction block to other panels. The receptacle connectors on the junction block each have one type of terminal configuration, e.g., a female electrical terminal configuration and one of the connector blocks is provided with the identical terminal configuration. The other connector block is provided with a matching terminal configuration, e.g., a male electrical terminal configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 5131860
    Abstract: A power distribution system is disclosed for electrification of modular wall panels. The distribution system includes a track along a wall panel, a plurality of electrical power lines running along the track and defining a plurality of power distribution circuits, and a plug-receiving receptacle mounted adjacent the power lines for interconnection therewith. The invention contemplates receptacle contacts mounted on the receptacle, a plurality of circuit contacts interconnected with the power lines, and a plurality of interchangeable circuit control modules for selectively interchangeably interconnecting the plug-receiving receptacle with different power distribution circuits. The interchangeable circuit control modules include a plurality of control contacts of different arrays engageable between the receptacle contacts and different ones of the circuit contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventor: Steven B. Bogiel
  • Patent number: 5129835
    Abstract: A power panel for use with wall panels of a space-divider system includes a lightweight frame structure having vertically extending end plates and a central web. Front and rear spaces are defined on either side of the web to accommodate electrical and communication wiring and receptacles on both the front and the back of the panel. A rib, extending from the web, divides the front and rear areas and provides physical separation between electrical power and communication wiring. The portion of the web on one side of the rib has an offset curved section to accommodate electrical wiring conduits extending vertically from the top to the bottom of the power panel. The power panel includes an upper area, with a removable cover, above the upper edge of the frame structure to accommodate wiring to and from, and between wall panels adjoining the power panel. A U-shaped cover is removably attached to the lower edge of the frame structure to accommodate wiring to and from, and between, panels adjoining the power panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1992
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerry A. DeFouw, James H. Nienhuis, Jeffrey L. Clark, Bruce R. Gezon
  • Patent number: 5116235
    Abstract: A power panel for use with wall panels of a space-divider system includes a lightweight frame structure having vertically extending end plates and a central web. Front and rear spaces are defined on either side of the web to accommodate electrical and communication wiring and receptacles on both the front and the back of the panel. A rib, extending from the web, divides the front and rear areas and provides physical separation between electrical power and communication wiring. The portion of the web on one side of the rib has an offset curved section to accommodate electrical wiring conduits extending vertically from the top to the bottom of the power panel. The power panel includes an upper area, with a removable cover, above the upper edge of the frame structure to accommodate wiring to and from, and between wall panels adjoining the power panel. A U-shaped cover is removably attached to the lower edge of the frame structure to accommodate wiring to and from, and between, panels adjoining the power panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Nienhuis, Jeffrey L. Clark, Bruce R. Gezon
  • Patent number: 5112240
    Abstract: There is disclosed an electrified wall panel system having a power distribution server locatable within a wall panel unit. The power distribution server has four receptacle module ports oriented in an H-shaped configuration in which a first receptacle port on a first side of the wall panel unit opens toward a first end of the wall panel unit, a second receptacle port on the first side of the wall panel unit opens toward a second end of the wall panel unit, a third receptacle port on a second side of the wall panel unit opens toward the first end of the wall panel unit, and fourth receptacle port on the second side of the wall panel unit opens toward the second end of the wall panel unit. First and second harnesses are each electrically connected at first ends thereof to the power distributon server, extend to opposite ends of the wall panel unit, and include connector ports on the second ends thereof for providing electrical interconnection of adjacent wall panel units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1992
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Nienhuis, Jeffrey L. Clark, Michael L. De Pree, Robert L. Beck
  • Patent number: 5092787
    Abstract: A power distribution system for prewiring a modular wall panel unit with electrical conductors. The system is installed in the wiring channel that extends along the bottom edge of the panel unit. The system includes a power block located at each of the opposite ends of the panel wiring channel. Each power block comprises a housing containing ten flat, vertically aligned bus bars that are each connected to a separate one of four line, four neutral, a safety ground and an isolated ground conductors of the power supply of the site at which the panel unit is installed. Each power block is capable of receiving, at the end thereof adjacent the end of the wiring channel, on either or both faces thereof, a connector for a jumper cable for connecting two similar power distribution systems in adjoining panel units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: James H. Wise, Jay L. French, John L. Himes, Jr., James S. Hower, Douglas J. Pirc, Ronald M. Weber
  • Patent number: 5063473
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1989
    Date of Patent: November 5, 1991
    Assignee: AT&T Bell Laboratories
    Inventors: James R. Hall, Lorin E. Hunter, Terry D. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5052937
    Abstract: Existing electrical outlet tracks require that the outlet be slid from one location to another along the track. The present invention provides a readily movable electrical receptacle which also discourages contact with the conductors. The receptacles of the present invention can be readily installed at any location along a baseboard conductor without sliding of the receptacle. This is accomplished using a T-shaped element which is inserted through the lengthwise groove of the continuous track and rotated into place. Screw-mounted bars are used to tighten the receptacle into place at the chosen location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 1, 1991
    Inventor: Bryan D. Glen
  • Patent number: 5046963
    Abstract: An improved electrical distribution system with two, four wire, multiwire branch circuits providing two sets of single phase office power circuits in exactly two types of duplex outlets. In each duplex outlet, receptacles are split to offer power from different phases. Each type of duplex has its own neutral and ground wires. These two duplexes control neutral balance and eliminate the previous need for oversized neutrals. Therefore, exactly two types of duplexes may be permanently prewired to a modular symmetrical channel providing user access to all four available circuits. The two multiwire branch circuits may be shielded to isolate clean computer power in one of the two duplex types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 10, 1991
    Inventor: Steven M. Kelly
  • Patent number: 5041002
    Abstract: In an office environment using movable wall panels, electrical junction assemblies including conduits of adjustable length are disposed in raceways near the lower edge of the panels. One embodiment of an adjustable length electrical junction assembly comprises a telescoping conduit to accommodate wall panels of different dimensions and to facilitate the placement of electrical outlets at appropriate locations. One type of telescoping conduit comprises two overlapping conduit sections of generally rectangular cross section and forming an inner spatial area for retaining excess wiring in a safe position. Another type of telescoping conduit comprises a conduit section of generally rectangular cross section and a generally flat multi-wire cable extending into the rectangular cross section conduit section to allow for lengthwise adjustability of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 5013252
    Abstract: There is disclosed an electrified wall panel system having a power distribution server locatable within a wall panel unit. The power distribution server has four receptacle module ports oriented in an H-shaped configuration in which a first receptacle port on a first side of the wall panel unit opens toward a first end of the wall panel unit, a second receptacle port on the first side of the wall panel unit opens toward a second end of the wall panel unit, a third receptacle port on a second side of the wall panel unit opens toward the first end of the wall panel unit, and fourth receptacle port on the second side of the wall panel unit opens toward the second end of the wall panel unit. First and second harnesses are each electrically connected at first ends thereof to the power distribution server, extend to opposite ends of the wall panel unit, and include connector ports on the second ends thereof for providing electrical interconnection of adjacent wall panel units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1991
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Nienhuis, Jeffrey L. Clark, Michael L. De Pree, Robert L. Beck
  • Patent number: 5007853
    Abstract: A casing system for laying electric supply conductors and, if desired, signal conductors along the outer surfaces of walls comprises pre-fabricated, unitary, permanently closed casing sections of a variety of fixed lengths with built-in conductors. Each casing section is provided with a number of built-in access modules permitting the mounting of installation components, such as wall sockets, and the establishment of electrical connection between these and the built-in conductors without interfering with the integrity of the casing sections. The system further comprises sliding cover sections for covering the gaps between adjacent casing sections and between casing sections and corner and end sections also belonging to the system. Standard lengths of casing sections, corner sections, and sections, and sliding cover sections are so selected thay any length of wall can be covered by the system without cutting or otherwise interfering with the casing sections as manufactured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 16, 1991
    Inventor: Axel Olsen
  • Patent number: 4999755
    Abstract: A tube light comprises a tube having a continuous length, and a plurality of light units which conform to the inner configuration of the tube and can suitably be positioned anywhere in the tube. Conductor strips which are adapted to be connected with a power supply are disposed in parallel in the tube whereby the bulbs of the light units are engaged by contacting of the conductor strips with the contacts of the light units. The light tube is simple in structure and can be loaded with a suitable number of the light units in optional locations. In addition, the structure of the tube light is adapted for mass production. Further, the structure of the tube light may have a cover or clips, or be provided with wings on the light units, to facilitate securing the light units in the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1991
    Inventor: Tak-Huei Lin
  • Patent number: 4992058
    Abstract: For the communications and data transfer wiring of a modern office building the invention provides a prewired cable trunking module with a number of socket outlets along its top surface. The module has a flat cable extending through the duct, sets of wires being split off the cable at intervals to connect with the outlets. Successive modules can have a single continuous cable extending through them, or can be connected by multiway connectors at each end of each module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1988
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Assignee: Comfloor Limited
    Inventor: Peter R. Tanner
  • Patent number: 4959021
    Abstract: A pivotable power feed connector (100) is disclosed which includes a pivotal connector (116) adapted to be connected to a flexible conduit or cable (118) having a series of conductors (120) extending therethrough. The pivotal connector (116) is pivotably connected to a pivot block assembly (132) through which the conductors (120) extend. The pivot block assembly (132) is, in turn, connectable to a contact block (200) with the conductors (120) conductively connected to a set of prong terminals (212) extending outwardly from the contact block (200). A protective cover (228) is securable over the contact block (200) so as to prevent the prong terminals (212) from being exposed during assembly and disassembly. The cover (228) automatically exposes the prong terminals (212) as the power feed connector (100) is moved into engagement with an electrical receptacle (102) in a modular office panel (104). The pivotal connector (116) allows the conduit or cable (118) to be swiveled through an arc of approximately 180.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1989
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne