Abstract: A network of power and communication receptacle devices having a plurality of power and communication receptacle devices. Each power and communication receptacle device has at least one power receptacle, at least one communication receptacle, and a power cable assembly having a dual power head. The power cable assembly is configured to provide electrical power to the power receptacle. The network includes a plurality of interconnecting power cables. Each power cable has a first power feeder electrically connected to the dual power head of one of the power and communication receptacle devices and a second power feeder electrically connected to the dual power head of a next power and communication receptacle device. The network includes a power feeding cable having electrically connected thereto a power feeder for connection to a dual power head of a first one of the power and communication receptacles and a device for connection to a power source.

Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.

Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.

Abstract: A multiple circuit duplex module comprising a chassis having an electrical chassis receptacle providing a plurality of connection points for the selection of power from two or more different circuits; a duplex element having at least one electrical duplex receptacle thereon to deliver power from one of the two or more different circuits to an external device in electrical contact with the at least one duplex receptacle; first conductor means for electrically connecting the at least one duplex receptacle to selected connection points in the chassis receptacle; wherein the duplex element is connectable to the chassis in different orientations, the orientation of the duplex element determining which one of the two or more different circuits is electrically connected to the at least one duplex receptacle.

Abstract: A movable wall panel system induces a plurality of movable wall panels. A first electrical connector of one panel is automatically coupled to a second electrical connector of an adjacent panel as the panels are moved from a folded storage position to an extended use position to electrically couple the adjacent panels together automatically. At least one of the plurality of panels has an electrical receptacle coupled to its associated first and second electrical connectors to provide an electrical power outlet.

Abstract: An electrical receptacle for use with an electrical distribution harness. The electrical distribution harness including a first connector and a second connector, a plurality of electrical conductors electrically connecting the first connector and the second connector, a conduit member at least partially enclosing the plurality of electrical conductors between the first connector and the second connector, at least one fastener element having a head, and at least one structural member connected to the conduit member by way of the fastener element, the head projecting above a surface of the structural member. The electrical receptacle including a housing with at least one recess and a connector extending from the housing. The electrical receptacle being electrically connectable to the first connector or the second connector of the harness. The recess being configured to accommodate the head when the electrical receptacle is engaged in the first connector or the second connector.

Abstract: A power distribution assembly (PDA) is provided with a support rail having a bendable grounding arm. This grounding arm extends from at least one axial end of the metal support rail and is bendable downwardly so as to overlie an end face of a power block on the PDA. The grounding arm includes a connector flange that projects inwardly through an access window formed in the power block, which connector flange is tight-fittingly engaged with an internal ground terminal upon insertion of the connector flange into the access window during downward bending of the grounding arm.

Abstract: A modular power distribution system includes power distribution assemblies and flex connectors. The flex connector includes end connector housings and a flexible jacket that encloses conductor wires extending between the connectors. The jacket is formed from superimposed layers of sheet-like jacket material that is flexible. The bottom jacket layer is first laid on a bottom housing section wherein conductors are then placed thereupon with an upper jacket layer then positioned over the bottom jacket layer. The top and bottom jacket layers have aligned free edges along at least one side thereof wherein the free edges are bonded together such as by heat sealing.

Abstract: An electrical distribution system for electrifying a plurality of wall panels includes a jumper assembly including a telescoping slider which includes a plurality of conductors housed therein which slide relative to one another, the jumper assembly being configured for connecting to a first electrical distribution device connected to a first wall panel of the plurality of wall panels and for connecting to a second electrical distribution device connected to a second wall panel of the plurality of wall panels.

Abstract: A junction block assembly (300) includes a junction block (302). The junction block (302) is single-sided in that it provides for interconnection of electrical receptacle blocks (310, 308) only on one side of the junction block (302). The junction block assembly (300) includes a first center connect cable assembly (304) and a second center connect cable assembly (306). The center connect cable assemblies (304, 306) are adapted to electrically interconnect to the junction block (302), in a manner so that electrical power received from one of the cable assemblies (304, 306) may be applied to the electrical receptacle blocks (310, 308) connected to the junction block (302), and also to apply power to the other of the center connect cable assemblies (304, 306).

Abstract: A modular power distribution system (110) comprises an incoming power cable (118) adapted to connect to jumper cable assemblies (140) having female end connectors (142) and jumper cables (148) connecting together the female end connectors. Junction blocks (150) are connectible to the jumper cable assemblies (140) and are adapted to provide for multiple circuits. Electrical receptacle blocks (152) are adapted to electrically connect to the junction blocks (150), and are configured so as to electrically connect to one of the multiple circuits.

Abstract: An article of furniture having a construction adapted to efficiently accommodate electrical components. The article of furniture includes a frame or chassis having support leg assemblies, and a beam connected to the support leg assemblies to which a channel is mounted. The support leg assemblies include work surface supports which support work surfaces at adjustable heights above the channel, and a gap between the work surfaces allows access to the electrical system within the channel. The electrical system is modular in design, and includes a series of components that are connected to one another in a manner that the location of electrical outlet modules is easily adjusted. The channel has a plurality of knock-out openings which are selectively used for locating electrical outlets at any desired position along the channel.

Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.

Abstract: An enclosure for wiring devices such as switches and receptacles is provided. A housing member has a main front chamber, a main rear chamber and a central dividing wall separating the front chamber from the rear chamber. The housing has an open front leading to the front chamber. The rear chamber is divided into a plurality of electrical feed ports through which electrical power is provided to and may be taken from the enclosure. The feed ports each have an open back providing access to the ports but not to the main front chamber. A front plate member sized to completely cover and seal the open front of said front chamber is permanently attached to the housing to make a fully enclosed factory sealed enclosure in the front chamber. The front chamber contains a wiring device. Hot, neutral and ground busses extend between and interconnect the feed ports. These busses have segments extending through the dividing wall and connected to a wiring device.

Abstract: A modular electrical system (230) comprises a number of separate components forming a four-wire system (110). The component set (230) includes receptacle junction blocks (130), two-way connectors (232), four-way connectors (236), two-way jumper cable assemblies (234), and three-way jumper cable assemblies (238). The components of the component set (230) include various configurations of male blade terminals (150) and female terminals (200) located on the individual components so that a number of differing system configurations can be achieved.

Abstract: A junction block assembly (300) includes a junction block (302). The junction block (302) is single-sided in that it provides for interconnection of electrical receptacle blocks (310, 308) only on one side of the junction block (302). The junction block assembly (300) includes a first center connect cable assembly (304) and a second center connect cable assembly (306). The center connect cable assemblies (304, 306) are adapted to electrically interconnect to the junction block (302), in a manner so that electrical power received from one of the cable assemblies (304, 306) may be applied to the electrical receptacle blocks (310, 308) connected to the junction block (302), and also to apply power to the other of the center connect cable assemblies (304, 306).

Abstract: An electrical connection system for providing electrical connection between first and second devices comprises one or more electrical connection posts and one or more electrical connection tubes. Each post has a first end and an opposite second end, where the first end is configured to electrically connect with a first device such as a photovoltaic cell. Each tube has an opening to receive and provide electrical connection with the second end of a respective post. First and second end connectors are provided at respective opposite axial ends of a connection tube to enable end to end electrical connection between adjacent tubes. The opening comprises a longitudinal slot together with a plurality of secondary slots. Each secondary slot comprises a first length that extends in a circumferential direction, and a second length that extends in the axial direction, with a circular portion that acts as an electrical contact.

Abstract: An electrical distribution harness assembly of a modular power assembly for providing power to an office furniture assembly including an exterior surface includes at least one electrical connector, a channel, and a cover. The channel includes a wireway and at least one slideway integral with the wireway. The channel is coupled with the at least one electrical connector and is configured for carrying a plurality of electrical conductors. The cover is slidably received within the at least one slideway.

Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.

Abstract: An electrical distribution harness assembly configured for coupling with a modular wall panel includes at least one electrical connector including a body and an elastic clip bracket configured for snap-fitting to the modular wall panel, the body forming an overmolded connection with the elastic clip bracket.

Abstract: A DC receptacle block (410) includes a DC receptacle (414) for interconnecting to a DC plug (430). The DC receptacle (414) is electrically engageable with a junction block (402) having buses or wires (DC-1, DC-2) carrying DC power.

Abstract: An electrical distribution harness assembly configured for coupling with a modular wall panel includes at least one electrical connector including a body and an elastic clip bracket configured for snap-fitting to the modular wall panel, the body forming an overmolded connection with the elastic clip bracket.

Abstract: A modular wall panel system including at least one wall panel having a raceway with at least one receptacle opening therein and at least one receptacle assembly. The at least one receptacle assembly includes a retaining device that retains the receptacle to the raceway and a restraining feature that restrains the receptacle assembly from completely entering the opening.

Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.

Abstract: A modular electrical receptacle configured so that more than one of the modular electrical receptacles can be connected to form a larger receptacle connected to a single source of power. The modular electrical receptacle includes a housing having a front surface with a first and a second electrical outlet. The housing further includes a first tab extending from a first end and a second end extending from a second end for securing the modular receptacle to an in-wall electrical box. The housing further includes a power link, such as a conductive extension, for connecting directly to another module and providing the other module with access to the single source of power. The power link can be three links for connecting a positive line, a neutral line and a ground line to another module. The housing also includes a coupler for connecting the housing to a power link of another module. Again, three couplers can be provided for the positive, neutral and ground lines.

Abstract: A modular multi-component power distribution system is provided having a plurality of modular components which are configurable into a bus-bar based system, a flexible cable base system and a hybrid configuration wherein the bus-bar and flexible cable components are interconnected together. The components allow for configuration of the power distribution system into a variety of office systems including wall panel systems, desking or freestanding furniture systems and raised flooring systems either individually or in various combinations. The system components include a bus-bar-like power distribution assembly (PDA), branching connectors, flex connectors, which are useable to join power distribution assemblies together, and receptacles which are pluggable into either the power distribution assembly, the branching connectors or the flex connectors.

Abstract: A power plug, power outlet, power supply device and power supply system for preventing electricity theft with relatively simple configuration are provided. A power outlet unit supplies power to a power plug unit to establish communication over a power line between a PLC block of the power outlet unit and a PLC block of the power plug unit. Upon transmission of an ID number from the power plug unit, the transmitted ID number is compared with an ID number stored in a memory. If the ID number matches the ID number in the memory, power is continuously supplied to the power plug unit. If the ID number does not match, the power supply is shut down to prevent electricity theft.

Abstract: A four wire system (800) includes a receptacle section (808) positioned intermediate a female end connector (804) and a male end connector (806). Each connector (804, 806) include a series of four conductive electrical wires consisting of a neutral (822, 842), a ground (824, 844), a first hot (826, 846), and a second hot wire (828, 848). Bus bars (858) are conductively connected to the wires of the end connectors (804, 806) and are conductively connected to a series of terminals (870, 872, 874) for supplying electrical power to a duplex receptacle (810).

Abstract: A modular electrical system (230) comprises a number of separate components forming a four-wire system (110). The component set (230) includes receptacle junction blocks (130), two-way connectors (232), four-way connectors (236), two-way jumper cable assemblies (234), and three-way jumper cable assemblies (238). The components of the component set (230) include various configurations of male blade terminals (150) and female terminals (200) located on the individual components so that a number of differing system configurations can be achieved.

Abstract: A bracket assembly for tool-less mounting in a raceway including a pair of substantially identical brackets, mated together, including a first bracket and a second bracket. Each bracket includes a support body, at least one lockable protrusion connected to the support body, at least one protrusion lock connected to the support body and at least one snap connecting mechanism connected to the support body, the at least one connecting mechanism for connecting with a structural member. The at least one lockable protrusion of the first bracket is engaged with at least one protrusion lock of the second bracket to thereby prevent relative movement of the first bracket with the second bracket.

Abstract: A data and power distribution system for an electrical busway is provided. The system has a base plate and a data channel located adjacent to or proximate to the base plate. The data channel is structured to receive a number of data transport devices therein. An electrical busway is coupled to the base plate and a power channel is located adjacent to or proximate to the base plate. The power channel is structured to receive the electrical busway therein. The data channel is located proximate to the power channel and the base plate is a unitary component. The base plate may have a number of locations on the base plate that are structured to receive fasteners in order to directly attach the base plate to a mounting surface.

Abstract: A distribution harness for use in a modular furniture environment, the distribution harness including a harness connector and an electrical receptacle connected to the harness connector, the electrical receptacle including a connector having a plurality of connector terminals, a plurality of receptacle terminals, and at least one jumper providing connection from one of the plurality of receptacle terminals to one of the plurality of connector terminals.

Abstract: A power distribution system includes a plurality of circuits each configured to supply power, wherein the power distribution system includes a plurality of power modules. A first power control device is connected to each of the circuits and is configured to supply power to a first sub-set of the power modules from a first of the circuits. A second power control device is connected to each of the circuits and is configured to supply power to a second sub-set of the power modules that is different than the first sub-set of power modules. The second power control device is configured to supply power from a second of the circuits.

Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.

Abstract: A junction block housing (400) is releasably coupled to a structural member (402) through the use of mounting lugs (404, 406) and brackets (408, 410). A latch assembly (428) consists of a first cantilever beam (430) and a second cantilever beam (432). A center extension (436) and lateral extensions (438) are coupled to said cantilever beams (430, 432) so as to releasably capture a retainer tab (426) at either of two positions relative to said junction block housing (400).

Abstract: A modular furniture power distribution system includes at least two multiconductor electrical cables, at least two upstanding partition panels, a stanchion for supporting juxtaposed partition panel ends, and a collar. Each of the at least two multiconductor electrical cables have an electrical connector at a first end thereof. Each of the at least two upstanding partition panels have an elongated generally horizontally extending channel for receiving a corresponding electrical cable. The stanchion forms an obstacle precluding direct communication between adjacent partition channels and providing inadequate clearance to accommodate electrical coupling between the electrical connectors. The collar at least partially encircles the stanchion and forms an electrical coupling for circumventing the obstacle and electrically coupling the connector of the cable in one channel with a corresponding connector of the cable in the other channel.

Abstract: A wireless raceway (100) employs bus bars (121), instead of cabling or other types of wires. The raceway (100) includes a pair of junction blocks (102). A bus bar assembly (116) holds the individual bus bars (121). The raceway (100) also includes a pair of modified Hterminals (122) having a central bus bar terminal (124) connected to each of a pair of receptacle terminals (126). The modified H-terminals (122) connect the individual bus bars (121) to external electrical assemblies through the junction blocks (102) without the need of wires or cables.

Abstract: An article of furniture having a construction adapted to efficiently accommodate electrical components. The article of furniture includes a frame or chassis having support leg assemblies, and a beam connected to the support leg assemblies to which a channel is mounted. The support leg assemblies include work surface supports which support work surfaces at adjustable heights above the channel, and a gap between the work surfaces allows access to the electrical system within the channel. The electrical system is modular in design, and includes a series of components that may be connected to one another in a manner that the location of electrical outlet modules may be easily adjusted. The channel has a plurality of knock-out openings which may be selectively used for locating electrical outlets at any desired position along the channel.

Abstract: A raceway system (500) includes a junction block (502) having a housing (503). The housing (503) includes a first recessed area (520) having lower receptacle channels (576) and upper receptacle channels (578). An electrical receptacle block (542) includes a lower tab (580) and an upper tab (582) which selectively engage one of each of the lower receptacle channels (576) and upper receptacle channels (578). The selective engagement determines how far laterally outward the receptacle block (542) extends, relative to the junction block (502).

Abstract: The invention is directed to an electrical distribution harness assembly and a method of manufacturing the electrical distribution harness assembly. The electrical distribution harness assembly is configured for coupling with a modular wall panel. The electrical distribution harness assembly includes at least one electrical connector including an elastic clip bracket configured for snap-fitting to the modular wall panel. The method of manufacturing the electrical distribution harness assembly includes the steps of forming an elastic clip bracket configured for snap-fitting to the modular wall panel and encapsulating at least a portion of the elastic clip bracket in an electrical connector.

Abstract: A modular electrical system (230) comprises a number of separate components forming a four-wire system (110). The component set (230) includes receptacle junction blocks (130), two-way connectors (232), four-way connectors (236), two-way jumper cable assemblies (234), and three-way jumper cable assemblies (238). The components of the component set (230) include various configurations of male blade terminals (150) and female terminals (200) located on the individual components so that a number of differing system configurations can be achieved.

Abstract: A junction block assembly (300) includes at least one junction block (302) receiving receptacle blocks (308, 310). Center connection of electrical power is provided through cable assemblies (304, 306) connected to the junction blocks (302).

Abstract: A jumper assembly (100) adapted for use in connecting junction block to conduit having electrical cable running therethrough and wherein the junction blocks are half junction blocks, the jumper assembly including: a first plurality of wire conductors (306) and a second plurality of wire conductors (308) are each electrically and structurally connected to a terminal set comprising a half H-shaped terminal set having a series of first terminal blades (312) and a series of second terminal blades (314), each set of terminal blades bein commonly integral with an elongated common blade (316).

Abstract: A DC receptacle block (410) includes a DC receptacle (414) for interconnecting to a DC plug (430). The DC receptacle (414) is electrically engageable with a junction block (402) having buses or wires (DC-1, DC-2) carrying DC power.

Abstract: A multiple circuit receptacle system (100) is disclosed. The receptacle system (100) includes a junction block (102) having an incoming female connector set (122) adapted to be engaged with a cable assembly (180) for supplying incoming power to the junction block (102). He junction block (102) also has a further female connector set (154), electrically coupled to the incoming female connector set (122), through which power is supplied from the cable assembly (180). The incoming power is in the form of four separate circuits, each circuit having hot, neutral and ground terminals. An electrical outlet receptacle block (160) includes a series of outlet receptacles (159) and connector sets (179, 181) selectively connectable to the further connector set (154) of the junction block (102).

Abstract: The present voice and data telecommunications connector includes a set of wires each having a first end terminating in a first 50-pin amphenol connector for connecting to a 50-pin amphenol socket of a converged voice and data telecommunications device; a first group of said set of wires each having a second end terminating in a 50-pin amphenol connector for connecting to a 50-pin amphenol trunk socket of a compact integrated communications system device; and a second group of the set of wires each having a second end terminating in a 50-pin amphenol connector for connecting to a 50-pin amphenol station socket of the compact integrated communications system device. Another embodiment provides for a voice and data telecommunications connector that includes a set of wires having a first end terminating in a 50-pin amphenol connector and three 50-pin amphenol connectors for connecting to a modular integrated communications device.

Abstract: A raceway system (500) includes a junction block (502) having a housing (503). The housing (503) includes a first recessed area (520) having lower receptacle channels (576) and upper receptacle channels (578). An electrical receptacle block (542) includes a lower tab (580) and an upper tab (582) which selectively engage one of each of the lower receptacle channels (576) and upper receptacle channels (578). The selective engagement determines how far laterally outward the receptacle block (542) extends, relative to the junction block (502).

Abstract: A multiple circuit duplex module comprising a chassis having an electrical chassis receptacle providing a plurality of connection points for the selection of power from two or more different circuits; a duplex element having at least one electrical duplex receptacle thereon to deliver power from one of the two or more different circuits to an external device in electrical contact with the at least one duplex receptacle; first conductor means for electrically connecting the at least one duplex receptacle to selected connection points in the chassis receptacle; wherein the duplex element is connectable to the chassis in different orientations, the orientation of the duplex element determining which one of the two or more different circuits is electrically connected to the at least one duplex receptacle.

Abstract: An LGA connector (100) includes a housing (2) and a number of contacts (1) received in the housing. Each contact has a base plate (10), a connecting portion (9) extending from a side of the base plate and a resilient contacting portion (93) projecting from the connecting portion. An elastic plate (11) extends from the base plate and has a spring arm (120) disposed at one side thereof. A curved receiving space (130) is formed between the spring arm and the elastic plate. The contact has a board terminal (12) extending from a lower end of the elastic plate for connecting to a printed circuit board.

Abstract: An electrical distribution system that in one embodiment includes a structural or trim member having a slot, the slot including at least two continuous electrical conductors, each having an exposed electrical contact surface and separated from one another by a dielectric material. The electrical distribution system may also include a plug-in outlet receptacle including at least one set of receiving apertures, for receiving an electrical plug and at least two electrical contactors electrically connected to respective apertures for providing electrical power to a device plugged into the outlet receptacle, wherein the contactors are configured for receipt into the slot, and further configured so that when plugged therein one of the contactors makes electrical contact with one of the continuous conductors, and the other contactor makes electrical contact with the other continuous conductor.