Outlet Box Patents (Class 439/535)
  • Patent number: 7497582
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device for adjustably providing power to at least one electrical load. The device includes a rear body member and a plurality of terminals configured to be coupled to a source of the power and at least one load. A power control circuit is disposed in the body member and coupled between the plurality of terminals and the at least one electrical load. The power control circuit includes at least one variable control mechanism coupled to at least one series pass element. The at least one series pass element is configured to provide power to the at least one electrical load in accordance with the at least one variable control mechanism setting. A frameless front cover assembly is connected to the body member. The frameless front cover assembly includes at least one switch mechanism coupled to the at least one variable control mechanism. The frameless front cover assembly has a raised rectangular form factor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2009
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventor: Gerald R. Savicki, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090053926
    Abstract: A universal power distribution system is provided for routing electrical circuits within a building structure to comprehensively provide electrical power to the building in ceiling configurations, wall-mounted configurations, raised floor configurations and in office furniture configurations. The system components for all of these configurations have common plug connectors that are engagable with each other so as to be readily usable in a wide variety of applications. The system is readily adaptable to form virtually any conventional circuit configuration found within conventional hard-wired systems yet is formed simply through the routing of the cables through the building cavities and interconnection is accomplished merely by plugging components together rather than through labor-intensive manual wiring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventors: Ross Johnson, Harold Wilson
  • Publication number: 20090053925
    Abstract: A modular electrical receptacle wherein more than one of the modular electrical receptacles can be connected to form a larger receptacle connected to a single source of power. The modular electrical receptacle includes a housing having a front surface with a first and a second electrical outlet. The housing further includes a first tab extending from a first end and a second end extending from a second end for securing the modular receptacle to an in-wall electrical box. The housing further includes a power link, such as a conductive extension, for connecting directly to another module and providing the other module with access to the single source of power. The power link can be three links for connecting a positive line, a neutral line and a ground line to the another module. The housing also includes a coupler for connecting the housing to a power link of another module. Again, three couplers can be provided for the positive, neutral and ground lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: February 26, 2009
    Inventor: Chrestos T. Pyrros
  • Publication number: 20090047828
    Abstract: A cable junction box has a curved shape to at least part of its enclosure allowing for coiling of extra cable length into a desired service loop within the enclosure. The cable junction box has a cover with a mud ring integrated with a wall plate bracket to allow for interfacing with a wall and has a cable input to receive cabling into the enclosure. Attachment plates are located on the periphery of the enclosure to be selectively used to attach the cable junction box to a mounting bracket coupled to a wall stud. The attachment plates allow for flexibility in positioning of the cable junction box to be attached to the wall stud. The enclosure has connection locations for the front cover and other connection locations for the cable inlet to allow for further flexibility in positioning of the front cover and the cable inlet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Applicant: LEVITON MANUFACTURING CO., INC.
    Inventors: Bryan L. Sparrowhawk, John L. Seger
  • Patent number: 7488891
    Abstract: An electrical box with multiple selectable fastening points. The electrical box is capable of being mounted on a wide range of structures including those that are constructed with metal framing, wood framing, or with a masonry wall. To accommodate various layers of drywall, fasteners for mounting the electrical box to a stud may be moved to any one of the several fastening points to ensure that the fastener is approximately centered with respect to the stud. Outward extending tabs are provided on the sidewalls of the electrical box to enable mounting to masonry walls. Multiple connection points are provided at the front opening of the electrical box to enable the mounting of electrical components or electrical fixtures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7488203
    Abstract: An electrical outlet device includes an enclosure that contains one or more electrical outlets. The enclosure has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side surface extending from the top surface to the bottom surface and forming an enclosure perimeter. The device further includes a cavity extending into the side surface of the enclosure and configured for receiving an electrical power cord that attaches inside of the enclosure perimeter. A top end of the power cord attaches to the enclosure inside the cavity and drops vertically downward from the enclosure. A top surface, front end, and sides of the enclosure extend around a front and sides of the top end of the power cord. The unique shape also allows a wider variety of power transformer shapes to be plugged into the enclosure at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Dolan Northwest, LLC
    Inventor: Ron Leddusire
  • Patent number: 7488204
    Abstract: A telescopic and adjustable electrically conductive device includes a first electrically conductive piece and a second electrically conductive piece. The second electrically conductive piece is movable contacted with the first electrically conductive piece. The present invention further provides a socket device including a socket and at least two electrically conductive devices. The socket comprises a base and a plurality of socket bodies and they are combined together in a slidable manner. The electrically conductive device comprises a first electrically conductive piece, a second electrically conductive piece and a plurality of contacting pieces. The contacting pieces movable contact with the second electrically conductive piece. The first electrically conductive piece is inside the base, and the second electrically conductive piece is inside the base and the socket bodies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Powertech Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jung-Hui Hsu
  • Publication number: 20090035989
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a electrical wiring system that includes a plug connector having of plug contacts configured to terminate a plurality of wires. The system also includes an electrical wiring device having a cover member, a body member, a ground strap assembly disposed between the cover member and the body member, and a receptacle formed in a rear portion of the body member, the receptacle being configured to accept the plug connector. The ground strap assembly is configured to conform to at least one body member feature such that a distance from the ground strap assembly to a major rear surface of the body member is less than a predetermined distance. The receptacle includes a plurality of receptacle contacts configured to mate with the plurality of plug contacts when the plug connector is inserted into the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Applicant: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald R. Savicki, JR., John Benoit
  • Patent number: 7485804
    Abstract: An electrical box and cover that includes a body having a back wall, a face plate and a perimeter wall which define an interior and an exterior for the body. The back wall has one or more removable elements for forming apertures that can be used to mount connectors. The faceplate has an opening for accessing the interior that extends beyond the perimeter wall to expose a slot. The cover is connected to the body by one or more hinges and is pivotably movable between an open and closed position. When the cover is in the open position, it can be retracted into the housing. A housing extending from the rear of the face plate on the exterior of the body receives the cover. The cover can include a rail on the interior surface and the perimeter wall can include a track that receives the rail when the cover is retracted into the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Cong Thanh Dinh, Robert Kevin Jolly
  • Patent number: 7485805
    Abstract: A two-gang recessed electrical box assembly for recessing a plurality of high or low voltage electrical components within a wall. The recessed electrical box assembly includes an electrical box with an electrical enclosure therein and a trim plate. The electrical enclosure can accommodate two high voltage components or two low voltage components or an optional voltage separator can be installed to divide the enclosure and enable the mounting of both a high voltage and low voltage component in the resultant subdivided enclosures. The trim plate includes a laterally extending flange and a peripheral flange that is received within the sidewalls of the electrical box. Alignment tabs are provided on the sidewalls of the electrical box to enable easy alignment against a stud. A mounting arrangement is provided on the outer sidewalls of the electrical box for securing the two-gang electrical box assembly to a stud or similar support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Publication number: 20090023304
    Abstract: There is provided systems and methods for a reorientable electrical outlet. In one embodiment, a system includes a housing configured to be coupled to an electrical power source, the housing having a first rotation stop, and an electrical plug receptacle, mountable within the housing, the insert having a second rotation stop, the first and second rotation stops configured to cooperate with each other to limit rotation of the insert within the aperture at a number of degrees, wherein the plug receptacle is configured to receive an electrical plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: 360 ELECTRICAL, LLC
    Inventor: Kimberly R. Gerard
  • Patent number: 7476803
    Abstract: An electrical box for housing electrical components that includes: a body having a back wall, a face plate, a perimeter wall therebetween and an interior. The back wall has one or more removable elements for forming apertures that receive one or more low voltage connectors. A cover fits over an opening in the face plate and one or more rotatable mounting brackets located near the end walls are used to mount the box in a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventor: Cong Thanh Dinh
  • Patent number: 7476807
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly for providing a secure electrical enclosure on walls constructed with steel studs of two conventional sizes. The electrical box assembly includes an electrical box including captive fasteners on one sidewall and a bracket that is adjustable in length for attachment to the opposite sidewall. The adjustable length bracket may be used as is for bracing the opposite sidewall of the electrical box for a wide stud. A bend line is provided on the bracket for enabling simple reduction of its length for bracing the electrical box against a narrow stud. The electrical box assembly provides an electrical box that is fastened directly to a stud on one sidewall and braced against the drywall at both ends of the box on the opposite sidewall to securely hold the electrical box with respect to the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Publication number: 20090008121
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box for accommodating an electrical fixture which includes a generally rectangular box having a back wall, a perimetrical side wall surrounding said back wall defining an open front face and a box interior, said side wall includes a first and second set of generally parallel spaced apart wall portions; and a slidable extension nested within said generally rectangular box, that can be moved from within the generally rectangular box to an extended position beyond the open front face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Ioan Liviu Lupsa
  • Publication number: 20090008120
    Abstract: A junction device includes a junction device main portion configured for attachment to an electrical enclosure and a modular device portion electrically coupled to the junction device main portion and configured for electrical coupling to an inner junction of the electrical enclosure. At least one conductive pass-through electrically couples the inner junction of the electrical enclosure to an outer junction of the electrical enclosure. The outer junction is enclosed by an outer enclosure that is configured to engage the electrical enclosure thereby surrounding the outer junction to prevent degradation of a coupled external high-voltage conductor and to provide fire protection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Applicant: Advanced Currents Corp.
    Inventors: Doug Gates, Steve Carle
  • Patent number: 7470145
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a electrical wiring system that includes a plug connector having a plurality of plug contacts configured to terminate a plurality of wires. The system also includes an electrical wiring device having a cover member, a body member, a ground strap assembly disposed between the cover member and the body member, and a receptacle formed in a rear portion of the body member, the receptacle being configured to accept the plug connector. The ground strap assembly is configured to conform to at least one body member feature such that a distance from the ground strap assembly to a major rear surface of the body member is less than a predetermined distance. The receptacle includes a plurality of receptacle contacts configured to mate with the plurality of plug contacts when the plug connector is inserted into the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald R. Savicki, Jr., John Benoit
  • Patent number: 7468486
    Abstract: The Adjustable Mud ring consists of a collarless frame, having a central opening for an Extending Member, perimeter fastener openings for connecting to a junction box, and bendable tabs for securing the frame to an Extending Member, which is boxed shaped with a central opening for electrical apparatus, fixed tabs with openings for threading adjustable fasteners into openings in the frame, and bendable tabs for securing the system to a wall. A Grounding Spring Clip, constructed from sheet-metal, folded to create a compressive spring, with an opening for a fastener, allows proper grounding. Add-on Rings are boxed shaped with a central opening, openings on flat, fixed perimeter tabs for threading bolts into to an Extending Member, and bendable tabs for securing the system to a wall. A bracket, with openings for fasteners for attaching the assembly to wall members, can be made a part of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: Frank Shaochong Yan
  • Patent number: 7462775
    Abstract: An adjustable electrical box assembly for mounting an electrical device on a stone wall either flush with the wall or at a desired offset. The assembly includes a base member, anchoring members, an electrical box, and an optional base extender. For a wall constructed of narrow depth stones, the base member is mounted directly to the substrate using the anchoring members. For a wall constructed of thick stones, the base member and base extender are secured together with the anchoring members and the assembly is secured to the substrate. The offset of the electrical box from the wall surface is set by adjusting the position of attachment of the anchoring members with respect to the sidewalls of the base member and base extender. The electrical box is adapted to receive a light fixture or similar electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7461870
    Abstract: A one piece connector is provided for coupling a flexible conduit to junction boxes having different wall thicknesses. The connector includes a bottom defining an aperture for passing electrical conductor therethrough. The connector further includes a sidewall extending upwardly from the bottom, and a member projecting inwardly from the sidewall for engaging the flexible conduit. The connector also includes a locking tab member having an outwardly extending tab, an outwardly angled locking protrusion, and a locking arm having an outwardly angled region and an inwardly angled region for retaining the connector within an opening in a junction box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: IBC Corporation
    Inventor: Geoffrey Blake
  • Publication number: 20080296039
    Abstract: A recessed electrical outlet box which includes a body that is selectably connected to a cover by either a first or a second hinge assembly. The body includes a back wall, a face plate, a side wall and an interior, wherein the side wall extends between the back wall and face plate and the face plate has an opening for accessing the interior. The interior includes a recessed pair of bosses and a pair of mounting holes, which can be used for mounting electrical devices in the interior. The first and second hinge assemblies have a first hinge axis and a second hinge axis, respectively, and are attached to the face plate and cover so that the first hinge axis is substantially perpendicular to the second hinge axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Publication date: December 4, 2008
    Inventors: Cong Thanh Dinh, Robert Kevin Jolly
  • Patent number: 7459631
    Abstract: Provided is a structure for housing an electrical junction box in a housing box by inserting the electrical junction box into the housing box from above and also for fixing the electrical junction box to the housing box so as to prevent slipping-off thereof by engagement between engagement parts provided on external side surfaces of the electrical junction box and engagement parts provided on internal side surfaces of the housing box, both of which face each other in parallel with an insertion direction in insertion of the electrical junction box. Moreover, groove-like depressions extended along the insertion direction into the housing box are provided in the external side surfaces of the electrical junction box, and engagement convex parts are provided in the depressions. Furthermore, engagement projections engaged with the engagement convex parts are provided on the internal side surfaces of the housing box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2008
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Nakayama, Masahiro Kanamaru
  • Publication number: 20080289845
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a device in a wall box is provided. The apparatus includes a base plate formed by a front portion and a plurality of side portions extending to the rear to define a substantially open rear portion, and a latching mechanism coupled to the base plate. The front portion is connected to the device. The base plate is configured to be at least partially inserted into the wall box. The latching mechanism includes a frictional engagement member configured to frictionally engage with the wall box upon insertion into the wall box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Applicant: AMX LLC
    Inventor: Phong Le
  • Patent number: 7449633
    Abstract: An electrical outlet box for accommodating an electrical fixture includes a generally rectangular box having a back wall, a perimetrical side wall surrounding said back wall defining an open front face and a box interior, said side wall includes of a first and second set of generally parallel spaced apart wall portions; and a slidable extension nested within said generally rectangular box, that can be moved from within the generally rectangular box to an extended position beyond the open front face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2008
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Ioan Liviu Lupsa
  • Patent number: 7445520
    Abstract: A field communication and computer data distribution system includes a weatherproof housing with a hinged lid, a panel positioned in the housing and having a plurality of pairs of insulation displacement connector units mounted thereon, and a pair of multi-terminal box connectors on opposite sides thereof. A double pole, single throw switch interconnects each connector unit of a pair to perform testing functions. Auxiliary connectors are interconnected to selected pairs or groups of pairs of the connector units. The connector units and auxiliary connectors enable the connection of communication devices, such as telephone sets, to cables connected to the distribution box, as well as computer modems and network interface adapters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: DT Search & Design LLC
    Inventor: Alvin Dean Thompson
  • Publication number: 20080268679
    Abstract: A receptacle includes a housing with a face member coupled to a base. A mounting bridge with first and second sides is connected to the base by a bottom member extending along a back surface of the base. The mounting bridge includes at least one substantially L-shaped tab formed on the first side of the bridge engaging a front surface of the base remote from the back surface. An upright post located towards the center of the bridge has a circular opening and a plurality of barbs disposed along its outer edges. Snaps protrude from the first and second ends of the base to engage apertures in the first and second sides of the mounting bridge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2007
    Publication date: October 30, 2008
    Inventors: Patrick J. Tiberio, William A. Valentin
  • Patent number: 7439442
    Abstract: A housing has two housing modules that are releasably connected to one another. The housing modules are releasably connected to one another at oppositely located wall regions via corresponding pairs of slots and hooks in engagement therewith. A snap-lock device is provided which locks the housing modules in the connected state in order to prevent unintentional release.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2008
    Assignee: Ba*Ro GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Bernhard Schutte
  • Patent number: 7432439
    Abstract: A terminal box of an output part of a solar cell module, including a case and an outer lid that are molded with a thermoplastic resin and an removal cable cover that is of a knockout type and is arranged in the case includes an inner lid that covers to close an electric circuit that is housed in the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takeshi Takada, Akihiro Takami
  • Patent number: 7429700
    Abstract: A lock structure for a box includes a first box member having a retaining projection, and a second box member having an elastic retaining arm. The retaining arm has at its distal end a retaining portion for engagement with the retaining projection. The first box member has an arm restraint rib which restricts a releasing movement of the retaining arm in a condition in which the retaining arm and the retaining projection are engaged with each other. When the arm restraint rib is pressed by the elastic retaining arm, the arm restraint rib is deformed by a pressing force of the elastic retaining arm. A retaining distance of the retaining projection relative to the retaining portion of the elastic retaining arm is larger than a gap between the elastic retaining arm and the arm restraint rib in the engaged condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2008
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Masahiro Kanamaru, Makoto Nakayama, Taro Inoue
  • Patent number: 7425677
    Abstract: An electrical enclosure includes a body, a face, an outer junction, an inner junction, and a pass-through. The body has an inner surface and an outer surface that are separated without an opening. The outer junction is adjacent the outer surface of the body. The inner junction is adjacent the inner surface of the body. The pass-through is at least partially contained within the body and it electrically couples the inner and outer junctions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Advanced Currents Corp.
    Inventors: Doug Gates, Steve Carle
  • Publication number: 20080220646
    Abstract: An electrical outlet device includes an enclosure that contains one or more electrical outlets. The enclosure has a top surface, a bottom surface, and a side surface extending from the top surface to the bottom surface and forming an enclosure perimeter. The device further includes a cavity extending into the side surface of the enclosure and configured for receiving an electrical power cord that attaches inside of the enclosure perimeter. A surface mounted outlet assembly includes an enclosure that contains one or more power plug-ins. The assembly further includes a mounting bracket that rigidly mounts the enclosure to furniture or to a wall. A shape of the enclosure in combination with a shape and arrangement of the mounting bracket allow a top end of power cord to attach and drop vertically downward from the enclosure. A top surface, front end, and sides of the enclosure extend around a front and sides of the top end of the power cord.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Applicant: DOLAN NORTHWEST, LLC
    Inventor: Ron Leddusire
  • Publication number: 20080207046
    Abstract: A modular wiring system comprising a functional unit and a wiring unit. There is also a system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner. This system can be formed from at least one locking prong comprised of electrically conductive material. When the functional unit is coupled to the wiring unit, the locking prong is both electrically and physically coupled to the functional unit at a first end and to the wiring unit at a second end. Alternatively, or in addition, the system for coupling the functional unit to the wiring unit in a rotational manner can include at least one flange coupled to the functional unit and at least one flange coupled to the wiring unit. These flanges operate such that when the functional unit and the wiring unit are coupled together, they are rotated to form a locking connection between the flange on the functional unit and the flange on the wiring unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 29, 2008
    Publication date: August 28, 2008
    Applicant: LEVITON MANUFACTURING COMPANY, INC.
    Inventors: Alfredo ARENAS, Leslie LINDENSTRAUS, Anthony TUFANO, Dennis ODDSEN, John EDER, Christopher RAFFERTY
  • Patent number: 7414193
    Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a device in a wall box is provided that includes a base plate formed by a substantially flat front portion and a plurality of side portions extending to the rear to define a substantially open rear portion, and at least one magnet. The front portion is connected to a device. The base plate is configured to be substantially inserted into a magnetically engageable wall box arranged on a wall. Each magnet is connected to one of the plurality of side portions. At least one magnet is operably configured to magnetically engage an interior wall of the magnetically engageable wall box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: AMX LLC
    Inventor: Phong Le
  • Patent number: 7413472
    Abstract: A wall stands upright from the surface of the bottom plate in the vertical direction in an electronic apparatus. An opening is defined in the wall. A connector defines a cylindrical portion located in the opening to receive a plug. A rib stands upright from the surface of the bottom plate. The rib defines a lock surface and an inclined surface. The lock surface extends in the vertical direction so as to hold the connector between the wall and the lock surface itself. The inclined surface is connected to the upper end of the lock surface. When the connector is set within the enclosure, the connector is received on the inclined surface. The connector slides on the inclined surface. The cylindrical portion enters the opening. When the connector drops off the inclined surface, the connector is fitted between the lock surface and the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventor: Takashi Iijima
  • Patent number: 7414191
    Abstract: An electrical-component assembly that includes a first housing portion that includes a wall. The wall includes a slot. At least a portion of the slot includes threads. An electrical component includes a body and a threaded protrusion. The threaded protrusion defines a longitudinal axis and is translational along a path that includes a portion that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis to engage with the threaded portion of the slot such that the body inhibits rotation of the electrical component relative to the first housing portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Assignee: A. O. Smith Corporation
    Inventor: Norman R. Long
  • Publication number: 20080188121
    Abstract: A modular electrical receptacle wherein more than one of the modular electrical receptacles can be connected to form a larger receptacle connected to a single source of power. The modular electrical receptacle includes a housing having a front surface with a first and a second electrical outlet. The housing further includes a first tab extending from a first end and a second end extending from a second end for securing the modular receptacle to an in-wall electrical box. The housing further includes a power link, such as a conductive extension, for connecting directly to another module and providing the other module with access to the single source of power. The power link can be three links for connecting a positive line, a neutral line and a ground line to the another module. The housing also includes a coupler for connecting the housing to a power link of another module. Again, three couplers can be provided for the positive, neutral and ground lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Publication date: August 7, 2008
    Inventor: Chrestos T. Pyrros
  • Patent number: 7408110
    Abstract: A sealed electrical junction box includes a sectional housing containing a chamber and having an end wall that contains at least one access passage in which is mounted a sealing bush containing a longitudinal through bore. An annular internal sealing rib on the access passage wall cooperates with a corresponding circumferential groove in the outer circumferential surface of the bush, thereby to seal the space between bush and the access passage wall. To seal the space around an inserted conductor, there is mounted on the inner circumferential surface of the bush through bore at least one integral deformable sealing lip that engages the outer circumferential surface of a conductor inserted into the bush longitudinal bore. When the bush is not in use, the longitudinal bore thereof is sealed by a cylindrical plug that is inserted into the longitudinal bore.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Weidmüller Interface GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Heike Schmidtpott, Michael Hoeing
  • Patent number: 7407410
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring system. The system includes a plug connector device that is configured to terminate a plurality of wires. A portion of the plurality of wires are configured to transmit electrical power provided by an electrical power distribution system. An electrical wiring device is configured to provide the electrical power to a load. The electrical wiring device includes a receptacle disposed therein. The receptacle is configured to receive the plug device, such that electrical continuity is established between the electrical wiring device and the plurality of wires when the plug device is inserted into the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: John Benoit, Gerald R. Savicki, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7402748
    Abstract: A reversible electrical box assembly for mounting an electrical fixture on a ceiling. The electrical box assembly includes a hollow body having a sidewall. The sidewall includes two ends and a center. A flange extends outwards from the sidewall at a location offset from the center thereby dividing the sidewall into a long and short sidewall. A panel is provided for closing either of the ends of the hollow body. The panel can be secured to either the long sidewall or to the short sidewall to create an opposing sidewall of an appropriate length for extending through the ceiling covering at the job site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2008
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 7399200
    Abstract: An apparatus for concealing an AC power strip and organizing power cords connected thereto includes a top section; a middle section comprising a bottom portion and a top portion, the top portion including an AC power strip receiving section, the bottom portion including at least one slot formed on a top rim thereof, the slot sized and configured to allow passage of the power cords; a bottom section, the bottom section being attachable to the middle section. The top section is slidingly and frictionally attachable to the middle section and the top section, middle section and bottom section provide an enclosure therewithin in a closed configuration for concealing the AC power strip and connected power cords.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Inventor: Jeffrey Mark Eliseo
  • Publication number: 20080160826
    Abstract: An electrical assembly comprising an electrical box and a single gang electrical outlet having both a power connector and at least one communications connector and being supported in the box. The electrical outlet is receivable in the box, which has a barrier to isolate the power and communications connectors, but is not receivable in a standard box, which would not have the required barrier, due to the spacing and locations of the mounting fasteners and protrusions extending downwardly near the ends of the outlet. In addition to the electrical outlet with the power and communications connectors, the electrical box can receive a standard single gang outlet therein upon removal of the barrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventors: John E. Lamoureux, Feng Jin, Nathaniel L. Herring
  • Patent number: 7390224
    Abstract: A system for providing electric power and a method of controlling the same. The system includes a local power source, a non-neutral-bonded connector electrically connected to the local power source, a neutral-bonded connector, and a conductor. The system also includes a first connector that provides an electrical connection between the non-neutral-bonded connector and the neutral-bonded connector in a first configuration of the system, and a second connector that provides an electrical connection between the non-neutral-bonded connector and the conductor in a second configuration of the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2008
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: Wesley C. Sodemann, Kenny J. Stair, Philip Gull
  • Publication number: 20080146077
    Abstract: A communications box for use beneath the surface of artificial turf includes a container having a peripherally-extending upper edge. A first resilient flexible seal extends vertically from and along the peripherally-extending top edge of the container. A cover includes a peripherally-extending edge, and at least one hand hole extending through the cover. A second resilient flexible seal extends vertically from and along the peripherally-extending edge of the cover. The cover and the second flexible seal are sized to be received within the first flexible seal extending from the peripherally-extending top edge of the container, and the first and the second resilient flexible seals prevent material from falling into the communications box when the cover is removed from the container. Seals may be provided around the hand hole and a lid receivable therein. Methods for preventing track material from falling into a container of a communications box when a cover is removed are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: June 19, 2008
    Inventor: Burt GOULET
  • Patent number: 7381890
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly that includes a box body having a screw mount aperture and a base insert slidably coupled into the box body. The base insert may include a back wall, and the back wall may have an electrical device aperture therethrough, a box mounting screw aperture therethrough, a center mounting screw aperture therethrough, and a rear face. The rear face may include a center mounting plane at the center mounting screw aperture substantially parallel to the back wall and at least one spacer extending above the center mounting plane from the rear face at the box mounting screw aperture. Other particular implementations of an electrical box assembly may include at least two removable flanges coupled along a front side of the box body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: John Kinnard, Richard L. Cleghorn
  • Patent number: 7378590
    Abstract: A multi-use electrical box has first and second side walls, lower and upper walls, which, together, form a front opening into the electrical box, and a rear wall. The first side wall includes a plurality of removable alignment tabs extending therefrom. The lower and upper walls each have external grooves which accommodate external attachment nails for the electrical box. One or more exit holes are provided in the first side wall for fastener screws. A slidable wall is removably mounted in the electrical box to receive one or more fastener screws at desired locations within the box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Inventor: Greg Herth
  • Patent number: 7377807
    Abstract: A power distribution system includes an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) and a power distribution unit including a plurality of interconnected and/or interconnectable guarded connectors coupled to an output of the UPS. Each of the guarded connectors is configured to mate with a guarded connector of a power distribution cable. The power distribution unit may further include a load terminal connected or connectable to the guarded connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Ove Ohman
  • Publication number: 20080108249
    Abstract: A novel enhanced system for connecting to preexisting wiring in buildings allows users with little experience wiring walls to safely change wiring receptacles and change the wiring at outlets throughout the building. Use of such a system improves safety by preventing contact with exposed wires. Moreover, users may exchange or replace wire behind wall using a novel replacement system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventor: David Carman
  • Patent number: 7368661
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of manufacturing an electrical box to reduce the amount of scrap material therefrom. More particularly, the present invention provides a metallic electrical outlet box that is formed from a sheet of material and folded into an electrical box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Lalancette, Ioan Liviu Lupsa
  • Patent number: 7367121
    Abstract: An electrical box is mounted on a wall stud, and a wiring panel is installed within the electrical box so as to partition the interior of the electrical box into a user inaccessible wiring compartment and a user accessible module compartment. A protective cover is attached to the wiring panel so as to protect the wiring panel during a makeup phase of wall panel installation and painting. After the makeup phase, the protective cover is removed from the wiring panel and a module having a user operable electrical function is mounted to the wiring panel within the user accessible module compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2008
    Assignee: ProtectConnect
    Inventor: Michael Gorman
  • Patent number: 7365268
    Abstract: A storage receptacle is provided that has first and second sides and a bottom made as a unitary member from a single piece of sheet metal. The receptacle also includes front and rear ends, each coupled to the two sides and providing support for the bottom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Edsal Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Collins, David J. Wojotowicz, Anthony J. Troyner, Mitchell S. Liss
  • Patent number: 7364443
    Abstract: An electrical outlet device comprising a mounting plate and an electrical outlet assembly containing electrical components and a hinge assembly coupled to the electrical outlet assembly and the mounting plate and adapted to enable the electrical outlet assembly to pivot with respect to the mounting plate between a raised horizontal orientation and a lowered operative orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventors: Glenn M. McGinnis, John F. Coyne