With Storage Means For Flaccid Conductor Patents (Class 439/501)
  • Patent number: 7189107
    Abstract: A power module including a housing, a plurality of first electrical connectors coupled to the housing, a second electrical connector coupled to an end of an extension cord that is configured to extend from and retract back into the housing, and a power cord coupled to the housing and configured to energize the second electrical connector via the extension cord and each of the plurality of first electrical connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: O Sullivan Industries Inc
    Inventors: Mark Strayer, Michael L. Franks
  • Patent number: 7189106
    Abstract: An organizer for organizing and storing one or more of adapters provided with rechargeable devices includes an AC power supply to provide access to electricity for the adapters to permit one or more of the adapters to operate simultaneously; a mechanism for storing excess adapter wiring; and a mechanism adapted to permit selectively extension or retraction of the wire of the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Inventor: Eric D. Young
  • Patent number: 7175473
    Abstract: A power cord storage module for an electrical device includes at least one fixed member forming a winding surface. A movable member moves relative to the fixed member between a retracted position and an extended position. The movable member includes a skirt. With the movable member in the extended position, the winding surface is accessible to allow the power cord to be manually wrapped upon or unwrapped from the winding surface. With the movable member in the retracted position and the power cord wrapped upon the winding surface, the skirt at least substantially covers the power cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Hamilton Beach/Proctor-Silex, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry Daniel Clapp, Martin Patrick Brady
  • Patent number: 7175474
    Abstract: A power adapter having replaceable plugs includes a main body, a socket module, a conducting wire, a rotating casing and a household plug. The main body includes a wire containing groove, an automobile plug and a connecting base formed on both sides of the wire containing groove, and electric conducting terminals disposed at the connecting base. The socket module includes a fixing base connected to the connecting base and a socket contained inside the fixing base, and the socket is electrically connected to each electric conducting terminal. The conducting wire is electrically connected to an automobile plug and each electric conducting terminal, wound into a wire containing groove, and covered by a rotating casing. The rotating casing is rotated for winding the conducting wire, and a replaceable household plug is inserted into the socket, and the household plug is electrically connected to a circuit of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignee: Elementech International Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chi-Lin Chang, Yuan-Hen Fu, Min-Jeng Lee
  • Patent number: 7172456
    Abstract: An electric cable organizing device is comprised of at least one, preferably a pair, of brackets to which is attached an electric outlet strip, such as a power strip which receives the plug ends of electric cords. An outlet strip is attached to two spaced apart brackets which are attached to a vertical surface and which extend transversely from at least one side of the strip. Each bracket has an associated strap, such as an elastomer o-ring, that runs across the bracket surface, from proximity of the outlet strip to a spaced apart fastener on the bracket surface. The excess lengths of cords which run from outlets of the outlet strip run zigzag in the space between the brackets and are held neatly in place against the surface of each bracket by the straps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Inventor: Jeffery Nagy
  • Patent number: 7168973
    Abstract: A retaining system including a power cord retaining system and a cord plug retaining system for use with a power tool. The power cord retaining system is configured for accommodating an extension cord and includes a cord capture formation for retaining the extension cord disposed on the tool, and a cord channel disposed on the tool and configured for supporting a loop of the cord substantially along an arc defined by the loop. In the preferred embodiment, the cord capture formation defines an enclosed aperture for retaining the cord at two points, and the cord channel defines a semi-circular arc for supporting the cord loop substantially along its apex. The plug retaining system is configured for maintaining electrical continuity between the plug and the receptacle and includes a contact portion for engaging a plug or a cord, and an attachment device for attaching the contact portion to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Z. Wascow, Robert Hollis, Jason Schickerling, William H. Schultz, Peter Domeny
  • Patent number: 7154039
    Abstract: A system and a method secure and/or align a device attached to a fixture. The system and the method have a retractable reel with a cable for attaching, for connecting and/or for securing the device to the fixture. The system and the method have a housing with an opening and a slit for aligning and/or for centering the device with respect to the housing, the retractable reel and/or the fixture. The cable extends outward with respect to the retractable reel and/or extends through the housing via the opening. The system and the method have a connector for attaching, for connecting and/or for securing the cable to the device. The housing has a recession for receiving the connector and/or for aligning the connector and/or the device. The connector and/or the device is centered and/or is aligned with respect to the recession, the housing and/or the retractable reel via the opening in the housing and the cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2006
    Assignee: Sennco Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Marszalek, Daniel Horvath
  • Patent number: 7140910
    Abstract: The present invention describes an adjustable connection assembly. The adjustable connection assembly has a first connector, a second connector and a signals cable. The first connector has a first isolation main body and a plurality of first terminals, and the first terminals are positioned at the first isolation main body. The second connector has a second isolation main body and a plurality of second terminals, and the second terminals are positioned at the second isolation main body. The signal cable is positioned between the first connector and the second connector. Besides, the signal cable includes a plurality of conductive wires, and both ends of the conductive wires are electrically connected with the first connector and the second connector, respectively. The signal cable is helical-shaped, flexible and retractable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventor: Sheng-Hsin Liao
  • Patent number: 7125277
    Abstract: A retaining system including a power cord retaining system and a cord plug retaining system for use with a power tool. The power cord retaining system is configured for accommodating an extension cord and includes a cord capture formation for retaining the extension cord disposed on the tool, and a cord channel disposed on the tool and configured for supporting a loop of the cord substantially along an arc defined by the loop. In the preferred embodiment, the cord capture formation defines an enclosed aperture for retaining the cord at two points, and the cord channel defines a semi-circular arc for supporting the cord loop substantially along its apex. The plug retaining system is configured for maintaining electrical continuity between the plug and the receptacle and includes a contact portion for engaging a plug or a cord, and an attachment device for attaching the contact portion to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Z. Wascow, Robert Hollis, Jason Schickerling, William H. Schultz, Peter Domeny
  • Patent number: 7125282
    Abstract: An adapter module for a portable computer keeps its power cables in its housing to maintain a tidy appearance. Cylinders, driven by torsion springs, roll power cables around themselves in the housing. A stop, driven by a spring, blocks teeth of cylinders to prevent the cylinders from rolling up the power cables. A button, operated by a user, is pushed against the stop to release the cylinders on which the power cables are retracted. When the adapter module is used to transmit power, power cables of desired length are extracted. When the module is not in use, the button is pressed to tract the power cables into the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Assignee: ASUSTeK Computer Inc.
    Inventor: Wen-Tsung Huang
  • Patent number: 7118410
    Abstract: A wiring protector that controls the direction of exiting branch wires, secures a tube over the branch wires, and adjusts the length of the branch wires. Wire protector, which includes main body and a passageway formed therein through which trunk wires pass, is placed over a wire harness and attached to a vehicle body. Exit ports for branch wires are formed within the main body, and disk-shaped guide members or a clamp are attached to the internal region of the main body to control the exit direction of the branch wires and to determine the length of the branch wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2006
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Shouji Hatori
  • Patent number: 7114603
    Abstract: An extension cord holder is provided. The extension cord holder has a main body. A first holding portion and a second holding portion are disposed on the two sides of the main body, and these two portions are in communication with each other. A first wheel assembly and a second wheel assembly are held in the first holding portion and the second holding portion, respectively. A first extension cord is wound around the first wheel assembly. One end of the first extension cord is electrically connected with a switch and a multiple of sockets disposed on the first wheel assembly. A plug is provided on the other end of the first extension cord. The plug protrudes out of an opening provided on a lower portion of the rear side of the body. A second extension cord is wound around the second wheel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Li-Chun Lai
  • Patent number: 7108544
    Abstract: A cord retainer is utilized in association with a portable electrical device, such as a cellular phone or a portable disc player. The cord retainer includes a base which is connected with the electrical device or with a case for the electrical device. A flange is connected with and extends from the base. The flange and base may cooperate with a surface of a housing of the electrical device or with a surface of the case to at least partially define a groove into which a cord may be manually wound. The cord retainer may be integrally formed as one piece with the housing of the electrical device or with the case. The base of the cord retainer may cooperate with the housing of the electrical device or the case to form an opening through which a belt can be moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Drew Zoller
  • Patent number: 7104816
    Abstract: An external casing includes a housing, an interface module, an external electrical connector, a cover component, and a releasable fastening unit. The housing is adapted for receiving a data storage device therein, and is formed with an opening. The interface module is disposed in the housing, and is adapted to connect electrically with the data storage device disposed in the housing. The external electrical connector is connected electrically to the interface module, and is disposed in the housing. The cover component includes a fixing portion that is secured to the housing, a covering portion that extends from the fixing portion, and an engaging portion that extends from the covering portion. The releasable fastening unit is provided on the engaging portion of the cover component and the housing to retain releasably the engaging portion on the housing such that the covering portion covers the opening in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Datastor Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Jen Wang
  • Patent number: 7083426
    Abstract: The invention relates to a tension-relief attachment for multiple cables, especially flat-ribbon cables, having a bearing wall (11) which is provided with parallel bearing troughs (15), and having an abutment part (3) which presses the cable wires (19) against the bearing troughs (15) of the bearing wall (11). A base plate (5) is provided out of whose top the bearing wall (11) projects upwards, the bearing troughs, which are in the form of shells, being seated on the top (9) of the base plate (5) and extending from there to the upper edge (17) of the bearing wall (11). Furthermore, an abutment wall (27) is provided which can be pressed against the bearing wall (11) and is provided with bearing troughs (29) which are in mirror-image form and are in the form of shells, each of which is allocated to a bearing trough (15) of the bearing wall (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventors: Nikola Dragov, Uwe Schindler
  • Patent number: 7081007
    Abstract: An electrical fixture consistent with certain embodiments has a light fixture and a mount used to attach the light fixture in a fixed relationship with a ceiling. An electrical outlet is electrically connected to a source of line voltage by an electrical cable. A retraction mechanism, connected to the mount, dispenses and retracts the electrical cable, so that the electrical outlet can be moved between a retracted position adjacent the light fixture with the electrical cable fully retracted and at least one extended position wherein at least a portion of the electrical cable is dispensed from the retraction mechanism. This abstract is not to be considered limiting, since other embodiments may deviate from the features described in this abstract.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Inventor: Christopher L. Marchese
  • Patent number: 7081006
    Abstract: A utility connection station includes a body portion having a top, a bottom, opposite sides and a plurality of receptacles. A stand is coupled to the body portion and has a first arm and a second arm movable in opposite directions for activation of the stand between a stowed position and a deployed position. A first line management device is integrated with the stand and a second line management device is coupled to the body portion and are configured to hold one or more utility lines coupled to the receptacles. The body portion is supportable in a tower orientation when the stand is in the deployed position and the body portion is positionable in a low profile orientation when the stand is in the stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2006
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristine E. Lichtscheidl, Mark A. Schaffner, Thomas E. Kramer, Fusu Thao
  • Patent number: 7077693
    Abstract: A cable management device, which comprises a body having an axis and at least one planar flange and at least one cable retainer; this apparatus allows for removable attachment of a cable during axial winding in a single plane, which results in uniform and neat storage of cable or cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2006
    Assignee: Blue Lounge Design, LLC
    Inventor: Dominic Symons
  • Patent number: 7064951
    Abstract: An enclosure housing has a first wall defined as a molded polymeric construction, a first latch defined as a one-piece construction with the first wall, a second wall defined as a molded polymeric construction, and a second latch defined as a one-piece construction with the second wall. A circuit board is connected to the enclosure housing and includes a board member defined by a periphery. The periphery includes: (i) a first tab defined by a first inclined ramp surface and a first locking face that lies transverse to the first inclined ramp surface, wherein the first tab is engaged with the first latch; and, (ii) a second tab defined by a second inclined ramp surface and a second locking face that lies transverse to the second inclined ramp surface, wherein the second tab is engaged with the second latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Dawn M. Barile, Michael S. Baran
  • Patent number: 7059895
    Abstract: A work station outlet is provided that is configured to be mounted to a wall or like structure. The work station outlet facilitates cable management functions, enhances space utilization at and around the work station outlet relative to the wall during cable installation and any subsequent cable additions or alterations, and allows for effective, convenient and efficient cable access as desired. The work station outlet includes a first plate suitable for being mounted or connected to the wall. The first plate has at least one connector access opening and one or more guide structures. The guide structures are offset from the access opening and suitable to accommodate a second plate having at least one cable accommodating spool operatively associated therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Ortronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Adam Murano
  • Patent number: 7052281
    Abstract: Cable winding devices and mechanisms for providing direct cable to electrical component connections without brush contacts are disclosed. Electronic controls may be provided directly on the cable winding device. The cable winding device generally includes two cable segments physically disconnected from each other, a spool configured for winding the cable segments thereon, and a circuit component such as a printed circuit board assembly that rotates with the spool. The circuit component may include electrical contacts to electronically connect corresponding pairs of wires of the cable segments and a user-adjustable or user-actuatable electronic control in communication with the electrical contacts. The circuit component may provide a pair of electrical contacts for each corresponding pair of wires in the cable segments and the electronic control is in communication with at least one pair of the electrical contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Plantronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Jacob T. Meyberg, Edward O. Sanderson, Gary T. Brint, Alan W. Grattan, Eric R. Bradford
  • Patent number: 7035126
    Abstract: A power supply capable of receiving an AC or DC input power signal and converting the received input power signal into a DC output power signal includes retractable AC and DC input plugs as well as a retractable output cable. One or more interchangeable tips may be attached to the end of the output cable to change a characteristic of the output power to meet a power requirement of an electronic device to which power is being supplied. The tips may be stored in a recess in the outer housing of the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: Comarco Wireless Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas W. Lanni
  • Patent number: 7025627
    Abstract: There is disclosed an apparatus for concealing, connecting and organizing power cords and signal cables from multiple devices in an equipment installation comprising a compact enclosure for use on a desktop that has first and second interior side panels facing each other without obstruction across the floor of the enclosure, and a hinged, reinforced, load-bearing top lid. A plurality of AC power outlets is disposed on either or both of the first and second interior side panels and connected in a power circuit via an ON/OFF switch to a power supply cord. The power circuit includes circuits for suppressing interference and transients. The enclosure includes space for containing and plugging in compact power supply blocks and storage space between the first and second interior panels for connecting, organizing and storing excess lengths of the cords and cables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Assignee: Leap Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Leslie David Rosenthal, Jason Scott Holland
  • Patent number: 7021955
    Abstract: A retaining system including a power cord retaining system and a cord plug retaining system for use with a power tool. The power cord retaining system is configured for accommodating an extension cord and includes a cord capture formation for retaining the extension cord disposed on the tool, and a cord channel disposed on the tool and configured for supporting a loop of the cord substantially along an arc defined by the loop. In the preferred embodiment, the cord capture formation defines an enclosed aperture for retaining the cord at two points, and the cord channel defines a semi-circular arc for supporting the cord loop substantially along its apex. The plug retaining system is configured for maintaining electrical continuity between the plug and the receptacle and includes a contact portion for engaging a plug or a cord, and an attachment device for attaching the contact portion to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Credo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Z. Wascow, Robert Hollis, Jason Schickerling, William H. Schultz, Peter Domeny
  • Patent number: 7011538
    Abstract: A charger capable of converting either alternating current or direct current power source, with a cable storing mechanism, is disclosed. The device includes a main body to incorporate other components, an in-car connecting component which can be connected to the cigarette lighter of a car, a house connecting component which can be connected to the AC receptacle, and a cable storing device having a spiral structure to smoothly store the charging cable. Because the dual input charger is so compact that a consumer can carry easily the charger and to choose either the in-car connecting component or the house connecting component, depending on the conditions he faces with. When the charging is finished, a consumer can readily grasp and rotate the charger to sequentially wind the charging cable into the continuous spiral groove of the cable storing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2006
    Assignee: Elementech International Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chi-Lin Chang
  • Patent number: 7004785
    Abstract: A cord wrap for use with a clipper is provided. The cord wrap accommodates a power cord associated with the clipper and has at least one retaining structure for retaining the power cord on the clipper. Provided on the at least one retaining structure is a cord channel which supports at least one loop of the cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Wahl Clipper Corporation
    Inventors: Scott A. Melton, James E. McCambridge, Raymond A. Nielsen
  • Patent number: 7004786
    Abstract: A device for providing electricity includes a frame, an outlet, a plug, and a cavity cover. The outlet is capable of providing electricity to devices plugged into the outlet. The plug is operable to provide electricity to the outlet from an external power source. The frame forms a cavity that is capable of storing a cord. Additionally, the cavity cover is capable of allowing access to the cavity through a cavity opening when a force is applied to the cavity cover and covering the cavity opening when the force is removed from the cavity cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Bloomin Partners, Inc.
    Inventors: Sam A. Bloom, Christian O. Gerard, Philip Leveridge
  • Patent number: 7001211
    Abstract: A utility connection station includes a body portion having a top, a bottom, opposite sides and a plurality of receptacles. A stand is coupled to the body portion and has a first arm and a second arm movable in opposite directions for activation of the stand between a stowed position and a deployed position. A first line management device is integrated with the stand and a second line management device is coupled to the body portion and are configured to hold one or more utility lines coupled to the receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristine E. Lichtscheidl, Mark A. Schaffner, Thomas E. Kramer, Fusu Thao
  • Patent number: 7001210
    Abstract: A wire winding device for receiving network wires or telephone wires is disclosed. The round post of the lower cover passes through the via hole of the circuit board, the central hole of the conducting plate, the via hole of the insulating plate; the buckling hole of the spring; the via hole of the spring seat, and the via hole of the upper cover, sequentially. The buckle sheet is engaged to the upper cover. The buckling post of the buckle sheet is movable fixed to the buckling groove. The upper cover and lower cover are combined. The electric wire of the circuit board and the electric wire of the conducting plate are placed in the slot of the upper cover and the slot of the lower cover. A screw serves to lock the upper cover to the lower cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Inventor: Wu Sung Chiang
  • Patent number: 7000746
    Abstract: An electrical cord reel includes a metal housing of rectangular shape which is adapted to be mounted set in a wall or on the surface of the wall. The electric cord is mounted on a retractable reel mounted within the housing and may be connected to a source of electricity. An outlet receptacle is mounted to the cord for supplying power to remote locations in the room or work area as the cord is unwound from the reel. A series of guide rollers permit the cord to be paid out in a direction generally perpendicular to the wall, but over a large space for flexible application. The receptacle may be reeled in for storage and used as a wall outlet in the storage position. The receptacle is secured in a recess in the front wall of the housing; and the receptacle may be moved from the storage position to a release position where it is readily removed from the housing for remote use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Woodhead Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael P. Mackin, Scott A. Hagen, Timothy A. Hill, Don Zito, Gregory J. Maley
  • Patent number: 6994592
    Abstract: A universal charging apparatus has a housing, a neck bendably connected to the housing, and an electrical cord which is preferably retractable. The electrical cord is spooled around a retracting spool located inside the housing, allowing the electrical cord to extend by pulling, or retract by activating a switch. The electrical cord has a tip adapted to receive one of a plurality of adapters, each adapter being suitable for connecting the tip to a different one or more electrical devices. The neck has an electrical conductor for connecting with an electricity source and supplying electricity through the electrical cord to the device. An integrated circuit chip adapts the electrical characteristics to be suitable for the different devices to be charged or powered. A ratchet connected to the neck allows the neck to stop in multiple positions, but to allow a user to bend the neck to a different position with slight force. The housing may also have a faceplate and status indicator, such as a light emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2006
    Assignee: Hop-On Wireless, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel J. Gannon
  • Patent number: 6960727
    Abstract: An AC adapter has a deformable cover located on an outer surface of the housing and defines an interior cavity between the inner surface of the cover and the housing surface for manual retraction and housing of the electrical cable when the electrical apparatus is not in use. The electrical cable may be manually retracted and wound around an internal tower for storage or may be manually withdrawn for connection to the electrical device with which the adapter is used. Alternately, the cover is flipped up to manually retract the electrical cable after which the cover is flipped down to house the retracted electrical cable when the apparatus is not in use. The cover may be flipped up to manually pay off a desired length of the electrical cable as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Hering
  • Patent number: 6957978
    Abstract: A cord retainer is utilized in association with a portable electrical device, such as a cellular phone or a portable disc player. The cord retainer includes a base which is connected with the electrical device and a flange which is connected with and extends from the base. The flange and base may cooperate with a surface of the electrical device to at least partially define a groove into which a cord may be manually wound. The cord retainer may be integrally formed as one piece with the electrical device. The cord retainer may have a plurality of flanges which at least partially define the groove into which the cord is wound. The cord retainer may be movable between extended and retracted positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2005
    Inventor: Drew Zoller
  • Patent number: 6942519
    Abstract: An electronic apparatus having a function of receiving a power cord. The electronic apparatus includes a housing including a surface having a hole and a portion, a power cord having a first end passing through the hole for electrically connecting to an interior of the electronic apparatus, and a cover connected with the surface for covering the portion, thereby allowing a remaining portion of the power cord to be wound around the portion and received the power cord in the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Delta Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Chun-Chen Chen
  • Patent number: 6926554
    Abstract: A portable device comprising a casing with at least one function key, a recess in a wall of the casing for accommodating a connector when the connector is not in use, a connector cable for permanently connecting the connector to an internal circuitry of the portable device; the recess being sized, shaped and located to as to not interfere with operation of the plurality of function keys; the connector, when in the recess, having a side surface substantially coplanar with the wall. The connector and the connector cable are for enabling: data transfer both ways between the portable device and another device, and one-way power from the another device to the portable device, when the another device is a host for the portable device; and data transfer both ways between the potable device and the another device, and power both ways between the portable device and the another device, when the portable device is the host for the another device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Creative Technology Limited
    Inventors: Yuen Khim Liow, Siang Thia Goh
  • Patent number: 6913853
    Abstract: An integral battery and recharger is described. The battery includes a battery housing, battery terminals and plug pins for location in a plug socket and operable to effect recharging of the battery when connected to an AC supply. The battery housing is generally designed to be received in a close fitting cavity (33) of a battery powered device. The part of the housing from which the plug pins project is designed to be sufficiently spaced, in use, from the walls of the cavity to allow the plug pins which project therefrom to fully extend part and the cavity. Preferably, the side from which the pins project extends at substantially 45° with respect to the said adjacent sides to form the third side of a three sided battery housing. A method of using and recharging a battery located in a battery powered device is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Uni-Lite International Limited
    Inventor: Bryan Insley
  • Patent number: 6909046
    Abstract: A network communications system is provided for allowing a group of computer users in a conference room or similar small work environment to access an Ethernet local area network (LAN) and to provide peer-to-peer group networking without connection to a backbone network. The system includes multiple (for example, 4 or 8) client computer ports each including a removable spring loaded cable dispenser carrying an extendible/retractable Category 5 LAN cable terminated with an RJ-45 plug for connection to a client computer's network adapter. Combined power/Ethernet LAN cables connect the system to an enterprise network and to a source of electrical power, and permit cascading of up to three 8-port systems. In use, a computer user pulls out the cable from one of the client ports and inserts the RJ-45 plug into the RJ-45 jack on the network adapter carried by the computer. After completion of the networking session, the user unplugs the cable which is automatically retracted by the spring loaded cable reel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Ian Laity, James R. Bauder, Franklin E. McLinn
  • Patent number: 6902428
    Abstract: The present invention provides a connector for connecting a first electronic device to a second electronic device. The connector includes a body, a wire and a plug. The wire passing through a space of the body has a first end and a second end. The first end is configured to connect to the first electronic device. The plug has a third end configured to connect to the second end. Accordingly, the plug is selectively disposed in the space or outside the space by means of the wire to connect to the second electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Assignee: Benq Corporation
    Inventor: Man-Wai Wong
  • Patent number: 6896543
    Abstract: Mounting assemblies for product display and security are described herein. An example mounting assembly includes a first portion, a second portion, a fastener, and an electrical connector. The first portion is configured to carry a sensor and the second portion defines a cavity to provide passage to a first cable assembly. The electrical connector is configured to electrically couple the first cable assembly to a second cable assembly from a plurality of cable assemblies associated with the plurality of electronic devices. Two or more of the plurality of cable assemblies include different connector types. The second cable assembly includes a first connector type configured to be electrically coupled to the connector associated with the first portion, and a second connector type configured to be electrically coupled to the one of the plurality of electronic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2005
    Assignee: Telefonix, Inc.
    Inventors: Calvin L. Fort, Paul C. Burke
  • Patent number: 6884110
    Abstract: A device for retaining a string of Christmas lights is made from a planar panel of a suitable material such as wood, plastic, or metal. The panel has a central body with parallel opposing sides around which the wire of a stringer of lights is wrapped. Extensions at the ends of the parallel sides retain the wire from falling off the central body during storage. The device includes a handle and a recess in the handle large enough to receive a portion of an electrical connector and openings at the bottom of the recess to permit the prongs of a male electrical connector to extend therethrough and engage the slots of a female connector to thereby retain the connectors at the end of a stringer of lights to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Bruce Bort
  • Patent number: 6884104
    Abstract: A collapsible communication connector that is movable between a compact collapsed configuration and an expanded operational configuration. The collapsible communication connector has an attachment assembly, which is movably coupled to an electrical contact panel. The attachment assembly is expanded outwardly from the electrical contact panel to facilitate mechanical coupling of the collapsible communication connector with a counterpart receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Steven S. Homer
  • Patent number: 6884109
    Abstract: An electrical cord roll-up apparatus has a stationary assembly and a reel assembly that rotably mounts on the stationary assembly. The stationary assembly has a shaft, an insulator on the shaft, axially spaced rings on the insulator and a power input or output cord that connects to the rings. The reel assembly has a reel tube with side flanges on the ends and brush assemblies mounted on the tube in alignment with the rings. The brush assemblies have copper or brass brushes that are pressed against the rings by compression springs, and connectors for connecting to the wires of the electrical cord. Rotating the reel one direction winds the electrical cord onto the reel and rotating the reel in the opposite direction unwinds the electrical cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventor: Jeffrey A Ray
  • Patent number: 6875051
    Abstract: Provided is an electrical distribution device having three or more lateral surfaces, wherein at least two lateral surfaces are adjacent pyramidal surfaces, wherein each such adjacent pyramidal surface comprises a directionally biased power receptacle, wherein each such adjacent pyramidal surface is adapted to direct a bulky end of a transformer fitted therein downwards or in a lateral direction; wherein for downwardly-biased pyramidal surfaces, the portion of the pyramidal surface below the power receptacle is adapted to accommodate about two inches or more of a bulky end of a transformer fitted in the power receptacle; wherein laterally-biased pyramidal surfaces are adapted so that any transformer that extends over an edge of the relevant pyramidal surface towards an adjacent pyramidal surface so extends at an angle such that a transformer of high primary bulk could still be accommodated fitted into the biased power receptacle at such adjacent pyramidal surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2005
    Assignee: Design Research and Development Corp.
    Inventor: Stephen J. Pizak
  • Patent number: 6848937
    Abstract: A retractable extension cord housing with a low-profile plug holder retractably houses an extension cord in a hollow body and has an external surface. The plug holder comprises a plug recess, a cord groove and an optional retaining tab. The plug recess and cord groove are formed in the external surface to hold a low-profile plug and a section of the extension cord attached to the low-profile plug. Therefore, the entire retractable extension cord housing has an appearance that is neat and clean.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Feng-Shen Hsiao
  • Patent number: 6821130
    Abstract: Device and method including a generally flat and flexible circuit for electrically inter-connecting components therein are provided. The device includes a post including a recessed section configured to receive the flexible circuit through an opening in said circuit. The structures defining the opening in the flexible circuit may be configured to provide a snap-fit between the circuit and the recessed section of the post, and thus avoid undesirable movement of the flex circuit in the presence of vibration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Brooks H Danley
  • Patent number: 6805581
    Abstract: An electrical outlet and cord management system is described for connection to a mains power supply or a data source. The system includes a tower including a base and at least one electrical outlet with surge protection for selective connection of at least one electrical device having an electrical cord and a cover for selective connection to the tower, the cover for covering at least one electrical outlet and electrical cord and for containing and managing the electrical cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Mark Edward Walker Love
    Inventor: Mark Love
  • Publication number: 20040203277
    Abstract: A power outlet with winding wire function, comprising: a frame having two perpendicular sides and two horizontal sides, wherein the length of the two perpendicular sides are longer than the length of the two horizontal sides; and a power outlet module that positioned in one of the perpendicular sides having at least one outlet and a plug; upon assembling the frame and the power outlet module together, user could plug a outlet of a power cord in the plug of the power outlet module, and then plug a plug of the power cord in a power outlet so as to provide power by the outlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventor: Chao Chuan Chien
  • Patent number: 6799994
    Abstract: A cord management apparatus that provides for the convenient management of cords associated with the retail display of small electronic devices such as video cameras. The apparatus comprises a multi-conductor cable, a retractable reel for dispensing and retracting the cable, a mounting member for mounting the electronic device, an adapter for connecting the cable to the electronic device, and a base member for removably holding the mounting member. The base member is fastened to a display rack or counter. A plurality of adapters are provided so that the apparatus may be used with a wide variety of devices that may have different connection requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Telefonix, Inc
    Inventor: Paul C. Burke
  • Patent number: 6793523
    Abstract: A power socket having an attached container includes a socket housing having an extension wire, and a container serving as a cover or a container. Using the structure according to the invention, wires can be effective stored while accomplishing waterproof purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Inventor: Jose Wei
  • Patent number: 6790062
    Abstract: An adapter structure, suitable for use in different electricity standards, has a casing, a first plug, a second plug, a pair of conductors and a pair of insertion holes. The first plug has two straight pins pivotally connected to the casing so that the straight pins are unfolded from the casing or stored inside the casing. The second plug has two rod-shaped pins with rear ends respectively connected to a base. By pushing a pushing button, the plug moves forth and back inside the casing to unfold or store the rod-shaped pins inside the casing. The conductors are mounted inside the casing in parallel and respectively electrically connected to the first and second plugs, corresponding to outlets of the conductors. Therefore, the plugs of the adapter are respectively compatible with UK and EU electricity standards, with a simple configuration and reduced production cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Sheng-Hsin Liao