Supporting Means Comprising Face Plate Or Closure Member For Outlet Box Patents (Class 439/536)
  • Patent number: 8337241
    Abstract: A front load keystone D-shape connector includes a D-shape connector body having a plurality of conducting terminals located on one side thereof, and a frame shell holding the D-shape connector body therein and mountable in one mounting slot on a keystone wall plate/keystone panel, the frame shell having hooks backwardly extended from a back side thereof and adapted for insertion into one mounting slot on the keystonewall plate/keystone panel from a front side for hooking on a part of the keystone wall plate/keystone panel inside the mounting slot. Thus, the invention enhances the application range and convenience of use of a D-subminiature/digital video interface connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Foung
  • Publication number: 20120322300
    Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed to allow quick connection, substantially without tools, of electrical wire segments and modular components. In one embodiment, a quick connect electrical junction box is disclosed configured to allow the quick connection of two or more cable segments using a connection terminal block having electrical terminals, which are configured to conductively couple one or more bare wires together. In another embodiment, a quick connect electrical junction box is disclosed configured to allow the quick connection of two or more cable segments, and further configured to electrically couple modular electrical components, such as receptacles and switches, with the two cable segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2011
    Publication date: December 20, 2012
    Inventor: Peter J. Arrias
  • Patent number: 8334459
    Abstract: A cover plate (2) for electrical apparatus (1) includes at least one opening (22, 32) intended to provide access to at least one functional part (5) of the electrical apparatus and which is formed by superimposing a rear mounting plate (20, 30) fitted at the back with elements for mounting on an apparatus support (4) and a front finish plate (10) giving the cover plate an aesthetic appearance. The rear mounting plate includes on its front side a recessed housing (24) which completely houses the front finish plate, such that the front side (11) of the front finish plate extends flush with or is slightly back from the front side (21) of the rear mounting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignees: Legrand France, Legrand SNC
    Inventors: Jean-Luc Chaumeny, Laurent Petit, Denys Toulemonde
  • Publication number: 20120315789
    Abstract: A quick connect fixture system for an electrical box. The system includes an electrical fixture having a plurality of fixture wires and an electrical box affixed to a structure. The electrical box has an enclosure housing a plurality of structure wires connected to a power source. The electrical box includes a cap having an orifice leading to the structure wires located in the enclosure. In addition, the orifice includes a plurality slots. The system also includes a removable cover covering the orifice and having a plurality of prongs sized and shaped to be removably attached to leads of the structure wires. The system also includes an adapter ring attachable to a shaft of the electrical fixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Inventor: Jack R. Kerr, JR.
  • Patent number: 8299358
    Abstract: A panel for mounting to a power outlet or switch comprises a panel holder configured to secure to the power outlet or switch. A slide lock is configured to clip onto the panel holder in a sliding way. A panel case is configured to clip to the slide lock. The panel case is secured to the panel holder through the slide lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Inventor: Huadao Huang
  • Patent number: 8294028
    Abstract: A power supply socket panel comprises a panel enclosure, at least one movable connector, a panel supporter and at least one elastic foot. The panel supporter is mounted to the movable connector, and together they are secured to a power supply socket or switch. The panel enclosure is secured to the panel supporter through the movable connector and the elastic foot is mounted between the panel supporter and the movable connector. During disassembly, the connection component is pressed with hard tools such as a small screwdriver so that the elastic foot is in a compressed state, allowing the panel enclosure to separate from the connection component. In this way, the panel enclosure can be removed. This panel is characterized by a simple structure and convenient assembly/disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Huadao Huang
  • Patent number: 8267719
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring system for use in an AC electrical power distribution circuit including at least one first AC power conductor disposed between an upstream AC power element and a device box and at least one second AC power conductor disposed between the device box and a downstream AC power element. The at least one first AC power conductor and the at least one second AC power conductor are routed into an interior portion of the device box and accessible via a front open face of the device box. The system includes a connector device including a connector housing having a plurality of connector contacts disposed therein. The plurality of connector contacts are coupled to termination structures configured to couple the at least one first AC power conductor and the at least one second AC power conductor to corresponding contacts of the plurality of connector contacts. An electrical wiring device includes a device housing having a front portion and a rear portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: John Benoit, Gerald R. Savicki, Jr., Richard Weeks
  • Patent number: 8242364
    Abstract: Implementations of an electrical cover plate assemblies feature a frame having at least one adapter plate recess in a finished surface, the adapter plate recess comprising an electrical device aperture and at least one adapter coupling aperture through the frame such that the electrical device aperture is recessed with respect to the finished surface, at least one adapter plate configured to couple directly to the frame, and a door hingedly coupled to the adapter plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Richard L. Cleghorn, Jeffrey P. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 8237064
    Abstract: A cover plate for wall-mounting at least one electrical apparatus is described. The cover plate comprises: a base to be fixed to a mounting bracket; at least one decorative portion coupled to the base and provided with a window; at least one portion of electrically conductive metal material and/or at least one surface coated with electrically conductive metal material; and at least one electrically conductive grounding element comprising at least one fixing portion adapted to be interposed and clamped between the base and the decorative portion for fixing the grounding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: BTICINO S.p.A.
    Inventors: Lorenzo Trolese, Mario Perrone
  • Patent number: 8235748
    Abstract: The modular electrical wiring device includes an electrical wiring device and an external plug that is electrically coupled by one or more wires to the wiring device. The modular plug is releasably coupled to a connector in a male-female relationship. Both the modular plug and connector include internal contacts for electrically coupling one to the other. The connector is electrically coupled to and directly terminates one or more building wires, which are used to provide power to one or more of the wiring devices. The external plug is removably coupled to the connector to provide electrical power to the wiring device by establishing and electrical pathway from a source of electrical power, through the building wires, the connector and the modular plug to the wiring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Darron Kirby Lacey, Erik Jeffrey Gouhl, Kejie Chen, Chuan Chuan Zhuang, Jim A. Vaccaro, Denis Pierre Chardac, Rajesh D. Patel
  • Patent number: 8235755
    Abstract: In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet (100) includes a base module (100a) and interface module (100b). The base module connects to the wiring and is attached to the surface of a building. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet provides the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Assignee: Mosaid Technologies Incorporated
    Inventor: Yehuda Binder
  • Publication number: 20120196473
    Abstract: A front load keystone D-shape connector includes a D-shape connector body having a plurality of conducting terminals located on one side thereof, and a frame shell holding the D-shape connector body therein and mountable in one mounting slot on a keystone wall plate/keystone panel, the frame shell having hooks backwardly extended from a back side thereof and adapted for insertion into one mounting slot on a keystone wall plate/keystone panel from a front side for hooking on a part of the keystone wall plate/keystone panel inside the mounting slot. Thus, the invention enhances the application range and convenience of use of a D-subminiature/digital video interface connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Publication date: August 2, 2012
    Inventor: Paul Foung
  • Publication number: 20120077375
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides for electrical connectors or jack assemblies/housings for use in voice/data communication systems. More particularly, the present disclosure provides for modular jack assemblies that include a movable locking member. The present disclosure provides for improved systems/designs for jack assemblies/housings that are easily secured and/or unsecured to or from a jack panel or jack faceplate. In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides for convenient, low-cost and effective systems and methods for easily securing and/or unsecuring jack assemblies/housings to or from a jack panel/faceplate (e.g., in the field) by utilizing advantageous modular jack assemblies that include a movable locking member, and related assemblies.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: ORTRONICS, INC.
    Inventors: William H. Dietz, Kenneth A. Cupples, Richard W. Schlueter
  • Publication number: 20120052716
    Abstract: A wall plate assembly (100) includes a wall plate (20) having an opening (201) passing therethrough in a front-to-back direction, a connector (10) fixedly provided at a back side of said wall plate and corresponding to the opening for insertion of a plug, a spacer (4) assembled to the connector, and a plurality of electrical wires (30). The connector includes an insulative housing (1), and a set of contacts (2) disposed on the insulative housing and having contacting portions (21) for mating with the plug and tail portions (23) opposite to the contacting portions. The electrical wires (30) connect to the tail portions (23) of the contacts and are retained between the insulative housing (1) and the spacer (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHEN-XI WANG, HONG-QIANG HAN, ZI-QIANG ZHU
  • Publication number: 20120052723
    Abstract: A wall plate assembly (100) includes a wall plate (20) having an opening (201) passing therethrough, and an adapter (10) fixedly provided at a back side of said wall plate. The adapter (10) includes a printed circuit board (101), and a first and second connectors (102, 103) mounted onto the printed circuit board in a back to back manner. The first connector includes an insulative housing (1), a metal shell (3) having a receiving space (106), and a set of contacts (2) disposed on the insulative housing. The contacts (2) have contacting portions (21) extending into the receiving space and tail portions (23) being mounted onto the printed circuit board. The second connector (103) includes a dielectric body (4) and a set of terminals (5) disposed on the dielectric body. The terminals have mating sections (51) and tail sections (53) being mounted onto the printed circuit board. The printed circuit board (101) is located between the insulative housing (1) and the dielectric body (4) in the front-to-back direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 30, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: CHEN-XI WANG, HONG-QIANG HAN, ZI-QIANG ZHU
  • Patent number: 8101860
    Abstract: An electrical device cover configured for mounting over an electrical device comprises a frame including a frame channel and an frame opening. The frame opening is defined by at least four sides and is large enough to receive at least one electrical device. A sliding tab comprising a screw channel is provided, the sliding tab is slidably coupled with the frame channel and is slideable to a closed position in which the screw channel at least partially surrounds a box mounting screw of the at least one electrical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Edgar W. Maltby, Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Richard L. Cleghorn, Andre Baca, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 8092251
    Abstract: Active packaging for supplying power, data, or both power and data to an electronic media device while the device is housed within the active packaging is provided. The active packaging may include one or more electrical traces in-molded or printed onto the packaging that couple to a suitable connector on the device. Power may also be provided via one or more wireless power techniques. Multiple active packages may be conductively stacked to transmit power, data, or both power and data to a row or stack or devices. POM sensors integrated with or attached to the device (or the active packaging itself) may detect various movement events. Coordinated and synchronized display effects may be presented while the devices are housed within the active packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Rosenblatt
  • Patent number: 8057249
    Abstract: An electrical connector includes a mating end having a plug interface. The mating end has a retaining surface defined around the plug interface. At least one retention feature is provided on the retaining surface. A cap is provided having a plurality of sides and a front face. An opening extends through the front face. The cap is mounted to the mating end so that at least one of the plurality of sides of the cap engages the at least one retention feature to secure the cap to the mating end. The plug interface is accessible through the opening in the cap. The electrical connector is configured to be rear mounted to a panel so that the plug interface is accessible through an opening in the panel and the front face of the cap is capable of positioning flush with a front face of the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2011
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Shawn Phillip Tobey, Jeffrey Lane McNeal
  • Patent number: 8050145
    Abstract: A timing device is disclosed which is for controlling electronic devices and which is mounted in a wall switch box. This timing device comprises at least one controller, at least one transceiver in communication with the controller, at least one interface; and at least one cover plate. This device can also include at least one key coupled to the cover plate for interacting with the interface when said cover plate is inserted onto said at least one interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: Leviton Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Ostrovsky, Alfred Lombardi, Selin Tansi Glickman, Cheryl Samartano
  • Patent number: 7997925
    Abstract: A multifunctional wall socket related to electrical conduction connecting device, comprising socket cover (1) with a conventional power connector (2) and a USB port (3) arranged on the socket cover. The USB port (3) is connected to the output terminals of an AC-DC conversion module (4) arranged on the socket cover (1). The AC-DC conversion module (4) comprises a rectifier filter module (41), modulation step-down module (42), current sampling and protection module (43), voltage reference module (44) and feedback control module (45). A first safety shutter (6) which can be opened or closed in arranged at the USB port (3) on the socket cover (1), or a second safety shutter (7) which can be opened or closed is arranged at the conventional power connector (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Inventors: Chung Man Lam, Kwan Mo Ng, Tak On Chan
  • Patent number: 7887363
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring system that includes a plug device having a plurality of wires configured to be connected to an electrical distribution circuit. An electrical wiring device includes an input receptacle and at least one electrical element. The input receptacle is configured to receive the plug device to thereby establish electrically a continuous path between the at least one electrical element and the plurality of wires when the plug device is inserted into the input receptacle, the electrical wiring device including no external terminal connection elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Weeks, John Benoit
  • Patent number: 7873062
    Abstract: In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet comprising of a base module and interface module. The base module connects to the wiring and attached to a wall. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet will provide the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: Mosaid Technologies Incorporated
    Inventor: Yehuda Binder
  • Patent number: 7867035
    Abstract: In conjunction with a wiring in a house carrying data network signal, a modular outlet (100) includes a base module (100a) and interface module (100b). The base module connects to the wiring and is attached to the surface of a building. The interface module provides a data unit connection. The interface module is mechanically attached to the base module and electrically connected thereto. The wiring may also carry basic service signal such as telephone, electrical power and cable television (CATV). In such a case, the outlet provides the relevant connectivity either as part of the base module or as part of the interface module. Both proprietary and industry standard interfaces can be used to interconnect the module. Furthermore, a standard computer expansion card (such as PCI, PCMCIA and alike) may be used as interface module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Assignee: Mosaid Technologies Incorporated
    Inventor: Yehuda Binder
  • Patent number: 7820912
    Abstract: An electrical outlet cover assembly includes an electrical outlet mounting box having a front edge that does not extend beyond a front surface of a wall. An extendable base is coupled with the electrical outlet mounting box and is slideable between collapsed and extended positions. When collapsed, a leading edge of the extendable base does not extend beyond the front surface of the wall. One or more guides resist decoupling of the extendable base and the electrical outlet mounting box. A lid is pivotably coupled with the extendable base, and one of the lid and the extendable base has a cord port along their respective edges. The lid has a front surface and is positionable between open and closed positions. The lid's front surface is substantially flush with the front surface of the wall when the base is collapsed and the lid is closed with respect to the extendable cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus J. Shotey, Richard L. Cleghorn, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Publication number: 20100267278
    Abstract: Outlet assemblies are provided that include a faceplate having a planar exterior surface, one or more receptacles, a flatrim, and an electrical box. The faceplate is connected to the flatrim (with the one or more receptacles disposed between the faceplate and flatrim). The faceplate, receptacle(s), and flatrim are installed into the electrical box such that the exterior surface of the faceplate is flush with the outer wall that surrounds the electrical box. The flatrim is adapted to be interchangeably connected to, for example, two receptacles or a single receptacle, without having to damage and/or repair the surrounding wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Jair Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7799993
    Abstract: A water-resistant cover for an electrical outlet box generally includes a base and a lid hingedly coupled to the base. The base has a ridge surrounding a substantial periphery of the base, wherein the ridge includes a top wall, an outer side wall extending downwardly from the top wall and an inner side wall extending downwardly from the top wall. The inner side wall defines a recessed portion of the base and an opening in the recessed portion. The lid is received in the recessed portion in a closed position to cover the opening, wherein the ridge prevents water from entering the opening whether the cover is oriented horizontally or vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Joey Magno, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7799991
    Abstract: A power distribution box has a holder with inner, deflectable lock arms for securing bus bars within the holder. When the bus bars are correctly and completely installed within the holder, engaging portions of the lock arms are received in apertures of the bus bars and the lock arms are in a locked position. A cover can fit over and properly seat on the holder. The cover has projections that slide behind the lock arms and retain the lock arms in the locked position, preventing further movement. The projections each include a blocking surface. If one or more of the bus bars are not correctly and completely installed in the holder, the related latch arms are in a deflected, unlocked position. The blocking surface of a corresponding projection abuts against the deflected lock arm and prevents proper and complete assembly of the cover onto the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: Yazaki North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Joseph Advey
  • Patent number: 7790983
    Abstract: A user-manipulated door mechanism is mounted on the faceplate of an electronic module for allowing user access to an electrical socket disposed inboard of a faceplate aperture. An inwardly extending rectangular shoulder formed along one edge of the door is rotatably mounted about an axis inboard of the faceplate, and is resiliently engaged by the free end of a cantilevered spring blade inboard of the faceplate. The spring blade engages a first face of the shoulder that is substantially parallel to the door when the door is in a closed position covering the socket, and a second face of the shoulder that is substantially perpendicular to the door when the door is in an open position uncovering the socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Yuhong Gong, Xin Wang, Qin Zhang
  • Patent number: 7780470
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring system for use in an AC electrical power distribution circuit including at least one first AC power conductor disposed between an upstream AC power element and a device box and at least one second AC power conductor disposed between the device box and a downstream AC power element. The at least one first AC power conductor and the at least one second AC power conductor are routed into an interior portion of the device box and accessible via a front open face of the device box. The system includes a connector device including a connector housing having a plurality of connector contacts disposed therein. The plurality of connector contacts are coupled to termination structures configured to couple the at least one first AC power conductor and the at least one second AC power conductor to corresponding contacts of the plurality of connector contacts. An electrical wiring device includes a device housing having a front portion and a rear portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: John Benoit, Gerald R. Savicki, Jr., Richard Weeks
  • Patent number: 7762838
    Abstract: A wiring module that can be installed in an electrical junction box and can receive a removable electrical outlet module, a removable electrical switch module, or other types of electrical functional modules. The wiring module and the removable electrical outlet and switch modules may include connectors having a mechanical portion and an electrical portion. The electrical connector portions may be configured so as not to be exposed to user contact when the mechanical connector portions are at least partially engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: ProtectConnect
    Inventor: Michael P. Gorman
  • Patent number: 7749018
    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: August 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: John Benoit, Gerald R. Savicki, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7736175
    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 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald R. Savicki, Jr., John Benoit
  • Patent number: 7728226
    Abstract: A water-resistant cover assembly for an electrical outlet box includes a gasket sized to substantially cover the open side of the electrical outlet box, an adapter plate and a cover adapted to engage the mounting screw of the electrical fixture for mounting the cover to the outlet box. The adapter plate has an opening sized and shaped to receive a portion of the electrical fixture therein, and further includes a projection extending from a back face thereof. The projection pierces through the gasket to be frictionally held thereto and has a size adapted to be received in the aperture of the electrical fixture for aligning the adapter plate and the gasket thereto. The cover has an opening for providing access to the electrical fixture and is adapted to sandwich the adapter plate and the gasket against the electrical fixture when mounted to the outlet box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Joey Magno, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7722389
    Abstract: A shock-proof electrical wiring system includes a connector device having a connector housing. A plurality of connector contacts are disposed substantially inaccessible to a user within the connector housing. The plurality of connector electrical contacts are connected to a termination arrangement. The termination arrangement is configured to be connected to the portion of the plurality of AC electric power transmitting wires. An electrical wiring device includes a housing assembly that has at least one set of user-accessible receptacle openings disposed in a front major surface thereof in operative alignment with at least one shutter assembly configured to move from a closed position to an open position only in response to engaging a set of plug blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: John Benoit, Gerald R. Savicki, Jr., Richard Weeks
  • Patent number: 7722390
    Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and systems for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors. Specifically, the methods and systems relate to isolation and compensation techniques for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors for use with high-speed data cabling. A frame can be configured to receive a number of connectors. Shield structures may be positioned to isolate at least a subset of the connectors from one another. The connectors can be positioned to move at least a subset of the connectors away from alignment with a common plane. A signal compensator may be configured to adjust a data signal to compensate for alien crosstalk. The connectors are configured to efficiently and accurately propagate high-speed data signals by, among other functions, minimizing alien crosstalk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 25, 2010
    Assignee: ADC Telecommunications, Inc.
    Inventors: Damon Debenedictis, Bernard Hammond, Jr., Robert Kenny, David Yanish
  • Patent number: 7713084
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an electrical wiring system that includes a plug device having a plurality of wires configured to be connected to an electrical distribution circuit. An electrical wiring device includes an input receptacle and at least one electrical element. The input receptacle is configured to receive the plug device to thereby establish electrically a continuous path between the at least one electrical element and the plurality of wires when the plug device is inserted into the input receptacle, the electrical wiring device including no external terminal connection elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Weeks, John Benoit
  • Patent number: 7709735
    Abstract: An electrical box assembly includes a cover assembly, a gasket and an electrical box coupled together by mounting screws. The cover includes a base with a plurality of screw holes for receiving the mounting screws. A support member having an axial passage extends from the bottom face of the cover around each of the screw holes. The gasket includes a cylindrical shaped sleeve that passes through the support member and has an axial length to extend from the screw hole in the cover. The mounting screws are inserted through the axial passage of the sleeve and the screw holes in the cover to axially compress the sleeve to form a watertight seal between the screw shaft and the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: Thomas J. Vigorito, Thomas W. Bracci
  • Publication number: 20100099297
    Abstract: A telecommunications assembly including: a connector housing; a bezel mounted on the connector housing, the bezel have a front face having an opening for receiving a plug, the opening having a recess for receiving a plug latch; a faceplate having a faceplate opening of a standard dimension; wherein the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in a flat orientation with the recess positioned downwards and the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in an angled orientation with the recess positioned upwards.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: THE SIEMON COMPANY
    Inventors: John A. Siemon, James Frey, Maxwell K. Yip, Marc Pardee, Randy J. Below, Anthony Veatch
  • Patent number: 7692094
    Abstract: The present invention relates to wall plates for electrical wiring, and more specifically, to a plate including an opening for securing a connector or plurality of connectors therein. The plate includes a dual use opening at its center including cutouts that allow for a connector to be rotated at increments of 45 degrees up to 360 degree rotation at an angle in line to the angle of its receiving connector. Such angular mating requirements may originate from audio, video, and telecommunications applications where equipment is positioned at different elevations and distances away from an installed connector plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas J. DeCosta
  • Patent number: 7651369
    Abstract: A telecommunications assembly including: a connector housing; a bezel mounted on the connector housing, the bezel have a front face having an opening for receiving a plug, the opening having a recess for receiving a plug latch; a faceplate having a faceplate opening of a standard dimension; wherein the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in a flat orientation with the recess positioned downwards and the bezel is mountable in the faceplate opening in an angled orientation with the recess positioned upwards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: The Siemon Company
    Inventors: John A. Siemon, James Frey, Maxwell K. Yip, Marc Pardee, Randy J. Below, Anthony Veatch
  • Patent number: 7637772
    Abstract: A wall plate assembly includes a wall plate with an insertion slot for the installation of a HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) connector of a HDMI cable and a power plug hole for the insertion of a power plug, a signal amplifier connected to the back side of the wall plate for receiving the installed HDMI connector and amplifying the signal, a support device, which comprises a first support frame vertically adjustably fastened to the wall plate below the insertion slot and a second support frame horizontally adjustably fastened to the first support frame for holding down the installed HDMI connector on the first support frame, and a power connector aimed at the power plug hole for receiving a power plug to provide the signal amplifier with the necessary working voltage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Sure-Fire Electrical Corporation
    Inventor: Chang-Pin Wang
  • Patent number: 7622676
    Abstract: A face plate assembly for an electrical outlet box having an open side and an electrical fixture contained therein generally includes a face plate member and an adapter plate. The adapter plate is defined by an outer periphery and has an opening therein sized and shaped to receive a portion of the electrical fixture therein. The adaptor plate further includes a projection extending from a back face thereof, which has a size adapted to be received in an aperture of the electrical fixture for aligning the adapter plate thereto. The face plate member has an opening having an inner periphery edge surface smaller than the outer periphery of the adapter plate so that the face plate member is adapted to sandwich the adapter plate against the electrical fixture when mounted to the outlet box, wherein the adapter plate is not attached to the face plate member or the electrical fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Thomas & Betts International, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Drane, Cong Thanh Dinh
  • Patent number: 7618284
    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: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Hubbell Incorporated
    Inventors: John E. Lamoureux, Feng Jin, Nathaniel L. Herring
  • Patent number: 7598454
    Abstract: An electrical device cover assembly is described. A base includes a perimeter edge, a cord port, at least two substantially perpendicular base walls joined by an angled wall, and an electrical outlet opening. A lid is moveable between open and closed positions. The lid includes two substantially perpendicular base walls joined by an angled lid wall, and a cord port notch. The base includes a hinge member adjacent the angled base wall that extends from the base toward the lid. The lid includes a hinge member adjacent the angled lid wall that extends from the lid toward the base, and a hinge shield that extends over both the lid hinge member and the base hinge member. The lid has a flexible element coupled to a lid ring, and is expandable so that the flexible element extends beyond the lid ring to enclose an electrical connector coupled with the electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: TayMac Corporation
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Baldwin, Kenneth C. Booth
  • Patent number: 7586040
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a decorative wall plate assembly configured to cover at least one electrical device disposed in a wall box. The assembly includes a base plate member comprising a center portion including at least one aperture configured to accommodate the at least one electrical device, a first end portion of the base plate member including at least one first plate connection device, and a second end portion of the base plate member including at least one second plate connection device. The center portion is disposed between the first end portion and the second end portion. A first cover cap includes at least one first cover cap connection device configured to mate with the at least one first plate connection device. The first cover cap is configured to cover the first end portion. A second cover cap includes at least one second cover cap connection device configured to mate with the at least one second plate connection device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Pass & Seymour, Inc.
    Inventors: Kapil Rao Ganta Papa Rao Bala, Theodore P. Junko
  • Publication number: 20090221179
    Abstract: A tamper resistant faceplate assembly includes a faceplate base and a removably attached cover. The faceplate base presents ports (such as RJ-type jacks, fiber optic couplers and/or coaxial F-type connectors) at a downwardly directed angle. The cover includes several cable holes near its bottom. The cable holes are size to permit passage of a cable, but to exclude passage of a connector and/or to restrict the insertion of a finger or use of a tool to install/remove a connector. The cover is attached to the faceplate base by a snap-locking engagement, but may be further secured to the faceplate base by a screw or security fastener. The cover deters unauthorized connections and disconnections of connectors to communication networks via the ports of the faceplate base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 3, 2009
    Inventor: Arnel Berton CITURS
  • Patent number: 7563131
    Abstract: A wall plate for premise wiring. The wall plate is preterminated with a quick-connect coupling to enable fast connection and disconnection with a complementary quick-connect coupling on a wire configured to carry an electrical signal, such as digital or analog audio, visual or related signal. The wall plate may include numerous signal interfaces for audio, visual or combination audio/visual application. By including all of the components into a modular package, installation and removal of the wall plate for premise wiring upgrades is enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Lastar, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Sullivan, Gary Hess
  • Patent number: 7559795
    Abstract: A USB adapter/connector assembly (200) is adapted for use within an adapter kit (100) to accommodate couplers and jacks of various sizes. The adapter/connector assemblies which may be accommodated include not only the USB assembly (200), but other assemblies such as an HDMI adapter/connector assembly (206).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 7549893
    Abstract: A modular in-wall medical services outlet system comprising separate standardized vertical units that can be shipped separately and assembled on site to form a consolidated horizontal system. The system includes a self-aligning feature that allows the units to be leveled as a single whole and eliminates the need to level each unit separately. The alignment system may be combined with connectors which secure the units to each other. Racks of medical service outlets are included. The racks may be horizontally aligned, vertically aligned, or both. Substantially continuous trim and cover plate assemblies extend entirely across the face of the system around the outlets giving the system the appearance of an in-wall horizontal unit. The trim is attachable to the wall structure, receives the wall board, supports the service outlets, and provides horizontal equipment tracks. The frame provides the system with load bearing capacity to support equipment in the horizontal tracks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Assignee: Modular Services Company
    Inventors: James A. Walker, Taylor C. Cullpepper, John R. Pierson
  • Patent number: 7540768
    Abstract: A rotatable wall panel assembly for media signal wire has a cover panel, a seat rotationally mounted on cover panel and an A/V connector. The A/V connector is fixed inside the casing, so the A/V connector is rotated relative to the cover panel. Therefore, the installer or user can adjust the position of the front terminal end to match the end of wire or the plug of the electronic device. In addition, the rotatable wall panel assembly in accordance with the present invention has a simple structure and has few necessary elements to decrease assembling time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Ying-Cou Wang