Contractile Receptacle Patents (Class 439/263)
  • Patent number: 11688959
    Abstract: A connector for providing an electrical connection between at least one terminating mating terminal to a substrate. The connector includes a housing having at least one terminal receiving cavity. A receptacle terminal is positioned in the at least one terminal receiving cavity. The receptacle terminal has a latching projection which cooperates with the at least one mating terminal to retain the at least one mating terminal in electrical engagement with the receptacle terminal when the at least one mating terminal is fully inserted in the at least one terminal receiving cavity. A release mechanism is provided in the housing in line with the latching projection of the receptacle terminal, the release mechanism is configured to cooperate with the receptacle terminal to depress the latching projection when the at least one mating terminal is to be removed from the at least one terminal receiving cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2023
    Assignee: TE Connectivity Solutions GmbH
    Inventors: Nicholas Paul Ruffini, Destin Shimmel
  • Patent number: 11050175
    Abstract: A system and apparatus for increasing connectivity of a circuit board comprising a connector, wherein the connector has a horizontal body and a hollow cylindrical portion extruding vertically from the body; wherein the cylindrical portion is made up of a set of pieces; wherein at least a piece of the set of pieces is arranged to expand horizontally, upon insertion of a phalanx head in a vertical manner. A method to increase current connectivity comprising screwing a fastener into threads of a connector through a hollow cylindrical portion of the connector; wherein the hollow cylindrical portion of the connector is made up of a set of pieces; wherein the screwing causes a phalanx head to contact the cylindrical portion expanding at least one piece of the set of pieces in a horizontal manner in relation to the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2021
    Assignee: Acacia Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: David Mullert
  • Patent number: 10985486
    Abstract: A female terminal 10 to be fit to a male terminal 50 is provided with a box-shaped female body portion 12 including a ceiling wall 14 and a bottom wall 21 facing each other in a vertical direction and open in a front-rear direction, the male terminal 50 being inserted into the female body portion 12, contact pressure applying portions 16 provided between the ceiling wall 14 and the bottom wall 21 of the female body portion 12 and configured to apply a contact pressure to the male terminal 50 by contacting the male terminal 50 from the side of the ceiling wall 14, and a pressure increasing plate 30 configured to displace the contact pressure applying portions 16 toward the bottom wall 21 by being inserted into between the ceiling wall 14 of the female body portion 12 0 and the contact pressure applying portions 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Inventor: Kenichi Kitaoka
  • Patent number: 10790738
    Abstract: A faulted switch isolated replacement path for a power converter is provided using replacement switches connected to an isolated node. The replacement switches can be controlled by normal operating signals. The replacement path is isolated by isolation switches during normal operation. During a fault condition, the isolating switches are activated such that the isolated node is selectively connected to the appropriate power output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2020
    Inventors: Haider Mhiesan, Roy A. McCann, H. Alan Mantooth
  • Patent number: 10673161
    Abstract: A system and apparatus for increasing connectivity of a circuit board comprising a connector, wherein the connector has a horizontal body and a hollow cylindrical portion extruding vertically from the body; wherein the cylindrical portion is made up of a set of pieces; wherein at least a piece of the set of pieces is arranged to expand horizontally upon insertion of a phalanx head in a vertical manner. A method to increase current connectivity comprising screwing a fastener into threads of a connector through a hollow cylindrical portion of the connector; wherein the hollow cylindrical portion of the connector is made up of a set of pieces; wherein the screwing causes a phalanx head to contact the cylindrical portion expanding at least one piece of the set of pieces in a horizontal manner in relation to the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2019
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2020
    Assignee: Acacia Communications, Inc.
    Inventor: David Mullert
  • Patent number: 10506937
    Abstract: An electrode connector adapted for attachment to a biomedical patient electrode by either pinch or snap connection includes a pair of pivotally connected members including a connector body and a jaw pivotally connected to said connector body, with the jaw defining a beveled lower surface that functions to urge the jaw open by engagement of the top surface of an ECG stud thereby allowing the connector to be attached by snap engagement. An electrically conducting plate is disposed at the bottom of the connector to maximize electrical contact with the electrode stud. The jaw member further includes a lip functioning to engage a lower portion of the head of the stud and urge the radially enlarged base of the stud into electrical contact with the bottom surface of said electrically conducting member. An ECG electrode connector in accordance with the present invention may further be fabricated of radiolucent materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: ADVANTAGE MEDICAL ELECTRONICS, LLC
    Inventor: David Kendricks
  • Patent number: 10352340
    Abstract: A probe clip allows easy and accurate placement of a probe clip onto a coordinate measuring machine (“CMM”). Moreover various probe clips are configured to movably and adjustably secure an optical probe to the CMM. To that end, the probe clip may have a probe seat, for holding the probe, movably coupled to a clamp segment by an adjustable joint. The clamp segment movably couples the probe seat to a probe platform on the CMM.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2019
    Assignee: Hexagon Metrology, Inc.
    Inventors: Gurpreet Singh, Paul Racine, John Langlais, Jie Zheng
  • Patent number: 10074936
    Abstract: The invention relates generally to a lockable socket. In one example embodiment, to methods, apparatus, and systems to a safe electrical socket, wherein the socket may lock such that the plug, wires or connectors may not be accidently or forcibly removed without activation or deactivation of the locking structures. The locking mechanism may include a cam like actuator and locking mechanism that provides a secure and strong mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2018
    Inventor: Kaizheng Dong
  • Patent number: 10062988
    Abstract: A connector assembly for terminating cables to a PCB. An interface of compliant contacts within in a cylindrical disk of dielectric material and a boss with the cable attached reciprocate within a cylindrical sleeve with the interface toward the PCB. Springs bias the interface and boss toward the PCB. The sleeve, interface, boss/cable assembly, and springs are slid into a barrel that has a pair of pawls extending paraxially from the proximal end. The pawls combine with paraxial alignment fingers on the sleeve. In the unattached position, the circular alignment posts fit into round PCB holes. As the connector is pushed toward the PC, the sleeve contacts the PCB and stops, but the barrel continues until it is free to rotate to an attached position where the pawl fingers slide under the PCB. An optional locking mechanism locks the barrel in the attached position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Ardent Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Gordon A Vinther, Sergio Diaz, Joseph F DiDonna
  • Patent number: 10020616
    Abstract: A locking electrical outlet has a housing with a channel and an outlet latch within, a slider configured to move axially within the channel, a memory block, a locking plate with an opening, and a spring configured to bias the locking plate towards a first angle. The slider is configured move axially rearward relative to the housing by the insertion of the plug. The rearward movement of the slider reduces the angle of the locking plate such that a blade of the plug can move through the opening of the locking plate. The memory block is partially compressed by the slider such that it the slider engages the outlet latch of the housing, temporarily holding the locking plate at the reduced angle until the expansion of the memory block disengages the slider from the outlet latch and allows the spring to return locking plate towards the first angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventors: Scott R. Hartman, Shaun P. Brouwer, Surendra Chitti Babu, Masud Bolouri-Saransar
  • Patent number: 10010257
    Abstract: An electrode connector adapted for attachment to a biomedical patient electrode by either pinch or snap connection includes a pair of pivotally connected members including a connector body and a jaw pivotally connected to said connector body, with the jaw defining a beveled lower surface that functions to urge the jaw open by engagement of the top surface of an ECG stud thereby allowing the connector to be attached by snap engagement. An electrically conducting plate is disposed at the bottom of the connector to maximize electrical contact with the electrode stud. The jaw member further includes a lip functioning to engage a lower portion of the head of the stud and urge the radially enlarged base of the stud into electrical contact with the bottom surface of said electrically conducting member. An ECG electrode connector in accordance with the present invention may further be fabricated of radiolucent materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2018
    Assignee: ADVANTAGE MEDICAL ELECTRONICS, LLC
    Inventor: David Kendricks
  • Patent number: 9728913
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising: a socket cavity extending longitudinally and configured to receive a plug inserted longitudinally through an aperture; a first socket contact positioned within the socket cavity; an actuator configured to automatically switch the apparatus from a first configuration to a second configuration, when the plug is inserted longitudinally beyond a threshold insertion distance at which a tip of the plug has been inserted past the first socket contact and a first plug contact is positioned adjacent the first socket contact, wherein, in the first configuration, the first socket contact is laterally retracted from an insertion path of the plug through the socket cavity and wherein, in the second configuration, the first socket contact laterally extended towards the plug to form an electrical connection with the first plug contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2017
    Assignee: Nokia Technologies Oy
    Inventors: Guowen Tong, Xuewu Zhao
  • Patent number: 9431773
    Abstract: A probe-type connector includes an insulating body having a receiving space and a plugging slot which both communicate with each other, a probe set received in the receiving space and including a probe terminal, an insulating part, and an elastic part, and a connecting plate plugged into the insulating body corresponding to the plugging slot and having a connecting portion. The probe terminal has a connecting segment, and a flexible connecting arm extending from the connecting segment toward the plugging slot. The insulating part is connected between the connecting segment and the elastic part that enables the insulating part and the probe terminal to reciprocate in the receiving space. The flexible connecting arm is electrically connected to the connecting portion. Therefore, the probe terminal can transmit electrical signals directly to the connecting plate, which can be applied to the transmission of high-frequency signals or electrical energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: BELLWETHER ELECTRONIC CORP.
    Inventors: Kuan-Wu Chen, Chia-Hung Kuo, Hsing-Yu Lee
  • Patent number: 9276423
    Abstract: An electronic assembly includes an electronic component and a base. The electronic component and another electronic component have first and second thicknesses respectively. The first thickness is greater than the second thickness. The base includes a main body having a slot, a supporting element movably disposed at the main body, and a first elastic element connected between the main body and the supporting element. When the supporting element is at a first position, the supporting element is hidden in the main body, and the electronic component having the first thickness is adapted to be inserted into the slot. When the supporting element is moved to a second position by an elastic force of the first elastic element, at least part of the supporting element is in the slot, and the electronic component having the second thickness is adapted to be inserted into the slot and supported by the supporting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: Wistron Corporation
    Inventor: Hung-Sen Yang
  • Patent number: 9251954
    Abstract: A jig for manufacturing a capacitor element is provided in which the productive efficiency is excellent due to a larger number of anode bodies that can be processed, and an immersion position (height) of the anode body with respect to the processing liquid can be controlled with high accuracy. A jig 10 according to the invention includes a substrate 11, a plurality of beam members 8 arranged on at least one surface of the substrate in parallel to each other, and a plurality of conductive sockets 1 mounted on the beam member 8. The plurality of sockets 1 are capable of electrically connecting to a power source supplying an electric current to a capacitor anode body. The socket 1 is provided with an insertion port 37 for electrically connecting a lead wire of a capacitor anode body, and the insertion port 37 is opened in a downward direction of the substrate 11.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2016
    Assignee: SHOWA DENKO K.K.
    Inventors: Kazumi Naito, Masahiro Suzuki, Katsutoshi Tamura
  • Patent number: 9226680
    Abstract: An improved ECG electrode connector adapted for attachment to a biomedical patient electrode by either pinch or snap connection is disclosed. A closed-end electrical connector includes pair of pivotally connected members including a main connector body having an electrically conductive plate defining an electrode stud receiving aperture and disposed in proximity to the bottom surface thereof, and a jaw pivotally connected thereto and resiliently biased to a closed position. The jaw is adapted with a beveled surface that functions to urge the jaw in open by engagement of the top surface of an ECG stud thereby allowing the connector to be attached by snap engagement. The electrically conductive plate defines an irregular, generally oval-shaped opening that allows the electrode stud to be inserted through a wide portion of the opening and retained by the narrow portion of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: David Kendricks
  • Patent number: 9136068
    Abstract: An electrical contactor has a first terminal having an electrically-conductive fixed member with fixed contacts on opposite faces thereof, and a second terminal having a terminal body and an odd-number of electrically-conductive movable arms extending from the terminal body. Each movable arm has a movable contact thereon remote from the terminal body. The movable arms are arranged to oppose each other such that their movable contacts are on either side of the fixed member and aligned with the fixed contacts. The arrangement of the fixed member and the movable arms is such that, when the contacts close, current flowing through the movable arms produces a force which urges the movable arms towards each other thereby increasing a force between the fixed and movable contacts. The number of movable arms at each side of the fixed member is different.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2015
    Assignee: JOHNSON ELECTRIC S.A.
    Inventor: Richard Anthony Connell
  • Patent number: 9071014
    Abstract: A connector of the invention includes first and second conducting parts and a coupling part. The coupling part couples ends of the first and second conducting parts to allow the first and second conducting parts to turn from a closed position, in which the first and second conducting parts sandwich therebetween a conductor having flexibility, to an open position, in which the first and second conducting parts release the conductor. At least one of the first and second conducting parts includes a locking projection. The locking projection is configured to swing in accordance with the turning of the one of the conducting parts and pass through the conductor. The locking projection is of a curved form conforming to a swing track of the locking projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2015
    Assignees: TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA, HOSIDEN CORPORATION
    Inventors: Fumitoshi Akaike, Atsushi Ishii, Yuuki Kawabata, Shinichi Masamoto, Takashi Shimizu, Akihiro Tanaka
  • Patent number: 9059579
    Abstract: A sealant-filled enclosure assembly for environmentally protecting a connection between cables includes a housing and a mass of sealant. The housing is selectively configurable between an open position to receive the connection and a closed position wherein the housing defines an enclosure cavity to contain the connection. The housing includes at least one sealant cavity and a port control system. The port control system includes a gate member that is selectively deflectable from a closed position, wherein the gate member blocks a cable port, to an open position, wherein the cable port is open to permit a cable to extend into the enclosure cavity through the cable port. The gate member is rigid or semi-rigid. The mass of sealant is disposed in the at least one sealant cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2015
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: George W. Pullium, III, Jimmy E. Marks
  • Patent number: 9004923
    Abstract: A switching electrical power contactor having a bi-blade type switch, has ferrous plates attached to the blades to increase the current carrying capacity and reduce the resistance of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: Johnson Electric International (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Richard Anthony Connell
  • Patent number: 8944834
    Abstract: A universal contact port for receiving contacts of various cross-sectional dimensions and cross-sectional profiles of an electrosurgical component is provided. The universal contact port includes a plurality of rollers each defining a corporal axis, the corporal axes being at least substantially parallel to one another; and a plurality of shafts eccentrically supporting a respective roller, each shaft defining a longitudinal axis, wherein each corporal axis is spaced a radial distance from a respective longitudinal axis and wherein the rollers are rotatable about the longitudinal axes. The rollers define an opening therebetween, wherein the opening is expandable and constrictable upon rotation of the rollers about the longitudinal axes, whereby the contact port can accommodate receipt of contacts, from electrosurgical components, of varying cross-sectional diameter therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Thomas Plaven, Robert L. Lohe
  • Patent number: 8857049
    Abstract: A method for environmentally protecting a terminal block includes providing a sealing device including: a base substrate having an anchoring surface; and a gel sealant body having an engagement surface. The gel sealant body is secured to the anchoring surface and extends forwardly from the anchoring surface to the engagement surface. The method further includes: applying the sealing device to the terminal block such that the gel sealant body is interposed between the terminal block and the base substrate and the engagement surface engages the terminal block; and wrapping a retainer member around the terminal block and securing the sealing device to the terminal block using the retainer member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Edward O'Sullivan, George W. Pullium, III, Mahmoud K. Seraj
  • Patent number: 8845350
    Abstract: A switching electrical power contactor having a bi-blade type switch, has ferrous plates attached to the blades to increase the current carrying capacity and reduce the resistance of the switch. Flexible tangs formed at the distal end of the blades cooperate with a movable member to hold the contacts closed when the contactor is in the closed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson Electric International (UK) Limited
    Inventor: Richard Anthony Connell
  • Patent number: 8814586
    Abstract: A connector that includes a male terminal which has a conductive property and a tip portion of which is formed in a bar shape, and includes a coil spring formed of a conductive wire rod with an inner diameter smaller than a diameter of the tip portion of the male terminal and that linearly extends at an end portion at which the male terminal is inserted. The male terminal is inserted into the coil spring while a force that expands an inner diameter of at least a vicinity of the end portion is applied to an extending portion, and thereafter fitted to the coil spring by releasing the force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeki Ishikawa, Noritoshi Takamura, Makoto Saito, Michiya Masuda
  • Patent number: 8784140
    Abstract: A terminal contacting part includes in a jig for charging and discharging a secondary battery and a jig including the terminal contacting part. The terminal contacting part has a conductive unit for contacting an electrode terminal and conducting thereto and a pressing unit for pressing the electrode terminal for the conductive unit to be in tight contact with an electrode lead of a secondary battery. A compressing plate to be in contact with an electrode terminal includes a pad of dielectric-elastic material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: LG Chem, Ltd.
    Inventors: Seung Yeob Park, Ho Sub Jung, Young Joon Shin
  • Patent number: 8727328
    Abstract: An insert for a handler which may be easily replaced when damaged because a semiconductor device is often received in the insert. The insert in which the semiconductor device including a plurality of terminals is received and which allows the semiconductor device to contact an external contactor includes: an insert body that has a through-hole which is formed in a central portion of the insert body and into which the semiconductor device is to be inserted; and a support member that crosses the through-hole to be detachably coupled to the insert body and supports the semiconductor device inserted into the through-hole, wherein a plurality of communication holes are formed to correspond in position to the terminals of the semiconductor device and to pass through the support member from a top surface to a bottom surface of the support member such that the terminals and the external contactor are brought into contact with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: ISC Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jae Hak Lee
  • Patent number: 8678842
    Abstract: A terminal connection structure 1 includes first terminal fittings 5 connected to a motor 7, second terminal fittings 22 connected to an inverter, and a clip terminal. The first terminal fittings 5 and the second terminal fittings 22 respectively includes electrical contact portions 8 and 27 formed in a band plate shape and superimposed on each other. The clip terminal is caused to approach the electrical contact portions 8 and 27 along a crossing direction with respect to the longitudinal direction of the electrical contact portions 8 and 27 superimposed on each other, and sandwiches the electrical contact portions 8 and 27 superimposed on each other, between a pair of the contact pieces 35.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Hideomi Adachi, Hidehiko Kuboshima, Hajime Kato
  • Patent number: 8677804
    Abstract: To provide a gas sensor which can stably carry out a securement of an electric continuity between a sensor element and a contact member. A contact member in which an electric connection to a sensor element is obtained by pinching and fixing the sensor element in an inserting port formed by a pair of housing members includes a constraint member which is provided in an outer periphery of a pair of housing members. The constraint member constrains a displacement of a pair of housing members within a predetermined range before the sensor element is pinched and fixed by a pair of housing members, and exists in a state of being pinched between the annular member and a pair of housing member without generating any reaction force with respect to the external force, after the sensor element is pinched and fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi Masuda, Hirohito Kiyota, Nobukazu Ikoma
  • Patent number: 8636532
    Abstract: In a gas sensor, when an arithmetical mean roughness Ra of an inner periphery of a metal tube 95 is 1 ?m or less and end portions 93 and 94 of U-springs 92 are formed as curved contact portions, the end portions 93 and 94 of the U-springs 92 can slide smoothly along the inner periphery of the metal tube 95. Therefore, when vibration is applied to the gas sensor, the U-springs 92 can be prevented from being caught in the inner periphery of the metal tube 95, and the vibration can be absorbed by an elastic function of the U-springs 92. Even if the gas sensor vibrates, defective contact between a sensor element 20 and contact fittings 71 and wear and cracks in the sensor element 20 are less likely to occur. That is, the gas sensor resistant to vibration can be obtained.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi Masuda, Hirohito Kiyota, Nobukazu Ikoma
  • Patent number: 8419456
    Abstract: In a contact member for a gas sensor configured to fix a sensor element by sandwiching the sensor element in an insertion port defined by a pair of housing members to thereby obtain electrical connection with the sensor element, a restraint member provided at an outer circumference of the pair of housing members and having a restraint function for restraining a displacement of the pair of housing members within a predetermined range is used. The restraint member includes: two pressing surface portions to which a compression force that occurs when the annular member shrinkingly deforms is applied; a first side portion coupled perpendicularly to the two pressing surface portions; and a second side portion having an upper side portion coupled perpendicularly to one of the pressing surface portions and a lower side portion coupled perpendicularly to the other of the pressing surface portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2013
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Koichi Masuda, Nobukazu Ikoma, Hirohito Kiyota
  • Patent number: 8274795
    Abstract: A portable electronic device includes a main body, a circuit board in the main body, a rear cover, at least one first conductive member exposed through the rear cover and electrically connected to the circuit board, and a support assembly. The support assembly includes a hollow support detachably connected to the rear cover, at least one second conductive member connected to the hollow support and staying in contact with the at least one second conductive member, and at least one cable extending through the hollow support and comprising a first end electrically connected to the at least one second conductive member, and a second end extending out of the hollow support for connecting with a peripheral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hou-Xin Sun
  • Patent number: 8187015
    Abstract: An electrical connection apparatus includes an electrical connection contact and an adjustment component within an interior of the electrical connection apparatus. The electrical connection contact is operatively coupled to the adjustment component so that the electrical connection contact adjusts between an insertion position and a contact position in response to rotating the adjustment component. A slider movably arranged within the interior of the electrical connection apparatus causes the electrical connection contact to move in response to rotation of the adjustment component. The electrical connection apparatus includes one or more blocks, and the adjustment component, electrical contact and slider are arranged within an interior of the one or more blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2012
    Assignee: Deringer-Ney, Inc.
    Inventors: Garth W. Boyd, Aaron Engel, Dana Dubuc, Edward F. Smith, III, Michael E. Poppy, Michael E. Grant
  • Patent number: 8137125
    Abstract: A conductor connection structure includes a cable including a stranded conductor composed of twisted plural wire conductors, and an insulating layer formed around the perimeter of the stranded conductor, the cable being connected to a male terminal member; a female terminal including a protruding portion formed by causing the stranded conductor to protrude from the insulating layer at an end of the cable, the female terminal being formed in a cylindrical shape by widening the center of an end of the protruding portion to make the protruding portion hollow, to insert the male terminal member into the protruding portion; and a fastening member slidably provided around the perimeter of the female terminal, to tighten the female terminal when connected to the male terminal member, to fasten the male terminal member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Hitachi Cable, Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideaki Takehara
  • Patent number: 8130501
    Abstract: In one embodiment, a power cell chamber for a drive system includes moveable and fixed portions. The moveable portion includes a rectifier stage to rectify an input signal received from a secondary winding of a transformer to provide a rectified signal and an inverter stage having a plurality of switching devices to receive a DC signal and output an AC signal. This moveable portion can be slidably adapted within a cabinet of the drive system. In turn, the fixed portion includes a DC link having at least one capacitor to receive the rectified signal and provide the DC signal to the inverter stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: TECO-Westinghouse Motor Company
    Inventors: Enrique Ledezma, Thomas Keister, Mehdi Abolhassani, Ryan Edwards, Alex Skorcz, Randall Pipho, Srinivas Satumahanti
  • Patent number: 8025660
    Abstract: A universal contact port for use in an electrosurgical generator is provided and includes a ring gear having a circular rim formed therein and defines a central rotational axis. The rim includes a series of teeth formed therearound. A plurality of spur gears are operatively engaged with the rim of the ring gear, each spur gear defining a longitudinal axis which is at least substantially parallel with the central rotational axis; and a plurality of rollers operatively associated with a respective spur gear, each roller defining a corporal axis. The corporal axis of each roller is parallel to and spaced from the longitudinal axis of the respective spur gear. The rollers define an opening therebetween. The opening is constricted by rotation of the ring gear in a first direction about the central rotational axis and expanded by rotation of the ring gear in a direction opposite to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Thomas Plaven, Robert L. Lohe
  • Patent number: 7819682
    Abstract: The proposed plug-and-socket connector assembly comprises a male plug with contact pins and a female receptacle with contact sockets. The receptacle comprises a slider, opening the sockets to pass the pins and closing them by tight clamping, an arm displacing the slider, a lock holding the slider so that the pins freely penetrate into the sockets, and a lock releasing button. Optionally, the arm can be substituted by a knob, shifting the slider on guides. The slider is designed as a frame with a grid of plates passing through rows of the sockets shaped as clamps having embracing portions for tightly gripping the pins. The first sockets' ends are fixed in the receptacle, the second ends thereof are movable, varying the embracing portions. The proposed assembly improves contact, simplifies the design of such devices, and reduces their size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventor: Yurij Donetsky
  • Patent number: 7810943
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a lamp support capable of stably and firmly mounting a lamp, and a backlight assembly and a liquid crystal display including the lamp support unit. The lamp support unit includes a socket housing, a socket terminal disposed in the socket housing gripping a lead of a lamp and a supporting member installed to the socket housing and supporting a lamp tube of the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kyung Rok Ko, Jae Hwan Chun, John Seung Han, Young Jae Lee, Hyun Su Park, Joo Young Kim
  • Patent number: 7771106
    Abstract: A lamp socket with decreased number of components is presented. The lamp socket includes a socket housing and a power supply member. The socket housing has a connecting hole. The power supply member includes a first lamp connecting terminal and a second lamp connecting terminal. The first lamp connecting terminal is inserted into the connecting hole and includes a first fixing portion that extends through the connecting hole and a first guide portion that extends from an end portion of the first fixing portion toward a first inner wall of the connecting hole. The second lamp connecting terminal is inserted into the connecting hole and includes a second fixing portion that extends through the connecting hole and a second guide portion that extends from an end portion of the second fixing portion toward a second inner wall of the connecting hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yong-Seok Yang, Jung-Tae Kang, Jin-Ho Ha, Yoon-Soo Kwon
  • Patent number: 7744412
    Abstract: An apparatus for making electrical contact with luminous means in spotlights, which contain a glass vessel, a luminous means base and contact pins for the power supply is provided. The apparatus comprising a luminous means holder with at least two socket pairs for accommodating the contact pins of different luminous means. The socket pairs are arranged in clamping pieces, whose mutually opposite connecting faces can be removed from one another in order to accommodate the contact pins of the luminous means and can be guided towards one another in order to make electrical contact with the contact pins of the luminous means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Arnold & Richter Cine Technik GmbH & Co. Betriebs KG
    Inventor: Erwin Melzner
  • Patent number: 7699496
    Abstract: A structure for attaching a fluorescent tube includes a base, a holder supported by the base, and a pair of contacts. The holder holds an intermediate portion of the fluorescent tube while restraining the fluorescent tube from moving in a radial direction. To the pair of contacts, terminals of a pair of end portions of the fluorescent tube are respectively attachable in an attaching direction corresponding to the radial direction of the fluorescent tube. Each contact includes a pair of elastic pieces facing each other. The pair of elastic pieces have a pair of straight portions extending substantially straight along the attaching direction and facing each other. On the pair of straight portions, a pair of contact portions for clamping the corresponding terminal of the fluorescent tube therebetween are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Assignee: J.S.T. Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Katsunori Miyazono
  • Patent number: 7695300
    Abstract: An electrically insulated conductor connection assembly and a method for providing the same are provided. The electrically insulated conductor connection assembly includes first and second electrical conductors each comprising a body portion and an end portion. A fastening mechanism electrically and mechanically connects the end portions of the first electrical conductor to the end portion of the second electrical conductor, and an insulator overlays and electrically insulates the fastening mechanism. The end portions of the first and second electrical conductors and the fastening mechanism form a joint, which is structured to be fastenable and unfastenable. When the joint is fastened and the insulator is overlaying the fastening mechanism, the joint is electrically insulated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Brad R. Leccia, Adri Lammers, Francois Marchand, Paul Schoten, Marcel Van Dijk, Gerard Schoonenberg, Johannes Josephus Gerardus Van Thiel
  • Patent number: 7682175
    Abstract: A burn-in socket includes a base, a sliding plate mounted to the base and having a number of pin holes, a number of contacts secured to the base and an actuator mounted on the base. The contacts each comprise a base portion and a pair of arms received in the pin holes of the sliding plate. The actuator includes a frame and a number of actuating portion for driving the sliding plate to move in a transversal direction. The sliding plate includes a number of projections adjacent to contacts. Each projection and the pair of arms of an adjacent contact together define a receiving space and located at three sides of the receiving space, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Liang Gao, Ming-Yue Chen, Jia-Jia Cai, Zhen-Qi Yang, Sung-Pei Hou
  • Patent number: 7628786
    Abstract: A universal contact port for receiving contacts of various cross-sectional dimensions and cross-sectional profiles of an electrosurgical component is provided. The universal contact port includes a plurality of rollers each defining a corporal axis, the corporal axes being at least substantially parallel to one another; and a plurality of shafts eccentrically supporting a respective roller, each shaft defining a longitudinal axis, wherein each corporal axis is spaced a radial distance from a respective longitudinal axis and wherein the rollers are rotatable about the longitudinal axes. The rollers define an opening therebetween, wherein the opening is expandable and constrictable upon rotation of the rollers about the longitudinal axes, whereby the contact port can accommodate receipt of contacts, from electrosurgical components, of varying cross-sectional diameter therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Covidien AG
    Inventors: Thomas Plaven, Robert Lohe
  • Patent number: 7568931
    Abstract: A bypass assembly. The bypass assembly includes a plurality of movable terminals configured to mate with fixed terminals of a power cell of a power supply. At least one of the movable terminals and its corresponding fixed terminal collectively form a contact when the at least one of the movable terminals and the corresponding fixed terminal are mated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Siemens Energy & Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Willard Hammond
  • Patent number: 7534124
    Abstract: In some embodiments, the present invention provides an independently tightening collet surrounding each socket for each of a plurality of corresponding high-electrical-power prongs, wherein the collet is loosened for normal (low-insertion-force) insertion and withdrawal of the plug from the outlet. Once the plug is inserted, the collet is tightened, providing a high-contact force to lower the contact resistance and to help keep the plug from coming unplugged. In some embodiments, the plug is not “locked”, in that a tension force pulling on the plug will overcome the contact force at a point before the plug or outlet is damaged, and the plug is allowed to come unplugged. In some embodiments, engaging the collet will also provide a wiping or sliding motion between the prong and socket for each connection, thus wiping at least some dirt or corrosion away and providing a lower-resistance better electrical contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Assignee: Mechanical Answers LLC
    Inventors: Charles A. Lemaire, Marian D. Maxwell, Raymond Q. Draggie, Scott D. Maxwell
  • Patent number: 7527510
    Abstract: Provided is a single integral power connection apparatus of a backlight unit with a pressure cam that compresses a lamp lead receiver including plate springs using an elastic restoring force of a cam spring such that the lamp lead receiver comes in contact with a lead of a CCFL to supply power to the CCFL. The power connection apparatus includes a base disposed on a substrate of the backlight unit, the lamp lead receiver having a space defined for receiving the lead by a pair of the bent plate springs disposed on the base, a lamp lead guide disposed on the base for supporting the lead of the lamp, a lamp tube guide disposed on the base for supporting a tube of the lamp, the elastic cam spring applying the restoring force, and the pressure cam for pressing the lamp lead receiver using the restoring force of the cam spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2009
    Assignee: Heesung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hee-Jong Yoo
  • Patent number: 7458827
    Abstract: Electrical connectors are adapted to provide a reliable electrical connection to mating elements of a mating connector. The connector can have sockets that accept mating elements of the mating connector. Conductors of the connector are associated with each socket and make electrical contact with mating elements received therein. A loading band of the connector is tensioned to provide a contact force between the conductor and the mating element when the mating connector is in the socket. Electrical connectors constructed in this manner can provide increased current density and/or a more reliable connection between the conductors and the mating element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Sweetland
  • Publication number: 20080230359
    Abstract: An electrically insulated conductor connection assembly and a method for providing the same are provided. The electrically insulated conductor connection assembly includes first and second electrical conductors each comprising a body portion and an end portion. A fastening mechanism electrically and mechanically connects the end portions of the first electrical conductor to the end portion of the second electrical conductor, and an insulator overlays and electrically insulates the fastening mechanism. The end portions of the first and second electrical conductors and the fastening mechanism form a joint, which is structured to be fastenable and unfastenable. When the joint is fastened and the insulator is overlaying the fastening mechanism, the joint is electrically insulated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Brad R. Leccia, Adri Lammers, Francois Marchand, Paul Schoten, Marcel Van Dijk, Gerard Schoonenberg, Johannes Josephus Gerardus Van Thiel
  • Patent number: 7399194
    Abstract: An improved single-pole electrical connector is disclosed. The connector has a base electrical connection at one end and a pin-and-collet type electrical connection at the other end. A nonconductive mounting base is used to attach the connector to an electrical distribution panel. An electrical cable (e.g., an electrical supply line) is connected to the base electrical connection. Another electrical cable (e.g., from an electrical load) is connected to a pin, which is inserted into the collet. A collet nut is tightened to provide a secure electrical and mechanical connection between the pin and collet. The nonconductive mounting base provides a secure attachment to the distribution panel and insulates the electrically conductive parts of the connector from the panel. An insulating boot may be used to cover the pin and collet side of the connector in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Charles David Gilliam
  • Patent number: 7387532
    Abstract: A power connector includes a main body and a conductive contact. The main body has a front surface and a sidewall. The front surface defines a receiving cavity. The front of the sidewall defines a groove communicating with the receiving cavity at the top, then a propping beam is formed at the front of the groove. The propping beam defines a gap communicating with the receiving cavity. The gap communicates with the groove at back and communicates with the outside at front. The conductive contact is received in the receiving cavity of the main body, having a fixing portion, a base portion and connecting portions connecting the fixing and base portions. The fixing portion is formed an arch structure, then an opening end is formed at the top. A propping portion is projected from the fixing portion. The propping portion is secured in the groove by against the propping beam. Therefore, the conductive contact can be fastened firmly and securely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hu-Qing Mao