HK1169520B - International outlet system - Google Patents

Description

International socket system

Cross reference to related patent applications

The present application claims priority from and is based on U.S. provisional patent application serial No.61/247,126, filed on 30/9/2009.

Statement regarding federally sponsored research or development

Is not available.

Reference to the microfushe appendix

Is not available.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to electrical power distribution systems and, more particularly, to systems employing modular elements having the ability to utilize wiring members for providing various types of circuit configurations and electrically interconnecting outlet receptacle members in order to provide interconnection of various types of international outlet receptacles.

Background

It is known to utilize power distribution systems having various types of physical structures, including modular distribution systems used in conjunction with wall panels, countertops, and the like. Such a distribution system may include what is often characterized as a raceway system, although the true "raceway" may not be utilized. A raceway distribution system can include a series of cables and junction blocks with the ability to selectively interconnect to one or more output electrical receptacles installed in the junction blocks. The incoming power is provided to the junction block (and to the interconnected outlet receptacles) via a power cable, which may be hardwired to the junction block or otherwise releasably connected to the junction block.

The receptacle may be placed on one face or on two opposing faces of the junction block. Also, the output receptacles may be in the form of a single or "unitary" output receptacle. Alternatively, it is known to "bind" the outlet receptacle in a "receptacle component". The receptacle component may include two (i.e., double), three (i.e., triple), or more receptacles.

Also, the junction block and the receptacle may be formed as a single unit, which are manufactured together or otherwise or assembled together at the factory. Such configurations are typically characterized as "integrated" units, or junction blocks and outlet receptacles that are "hardwired" together. Alternatively, the receptacles (or receptacle components) may be releasably, mechanically, and electrically coupled together "in the field" (i.e., where the distribution system is actually installed and used).

Various problems exist with the use of power distribution systems having electrical outlets. During the past two decades, a great deal of research and development has gone into raceways, junction blocks and sockets, devices for interconnection of junction blocks and sockets and installation of junction blocks within raceways. One aspect of increased use of electrical power relates to circuit loading. Any particular circuit is limited to carrying a limited power load. Previously, the interconnection with individual circuits into a power source was typically sufficient to handle power requirements when electrical power had not been used to the extent that it is today. Thus, wiring (or other wiring configurations) within a fixed or movable wall may include only two wires (hot and neutral) or three wires (hot, neutral and ground), with a single or double outlet typically wired directly to an incoming two or three wire circuit. Today, however, it is advantageous to employ systems having an incoming power source that includes multiple circuits. Development of a modular system is advantageously provided to enable various circuit configurations and reconfigurations at the location of use.

For example, power distribution system designs often require a reasonable balance of load among the incoming circuits. However, the ability to have multiple circuits causes other electrical wiring problems. For example, a number of junction blocks and outlet receptacle blocks may be assembled within several raceways of a modular system, with wires and bus bars configured for interconnection of outlet receptacles for a particular one of a plurality of circuits available for use. However, over time, the electrical power load may change, leading to load balancing issues and the like. These changes may require circuit reconfiguration involving extensive rewiring and "changing" of wiring blocks, receptacles, and other electrical components to other devices having different wiring and bus bar configurations in order to accommodate the circuit change. In the past. Many junction block and receptacle designs can only handle a single incoming power circuit (and "down the line" through the incoming circuit). To connect the junction block and the receptacle to different circuits, differently wired junction blocks and differently wired receptacles need to be used.

Today, however, wiring blocks are commercially available that provide the ability to receive (and pass) incoming power from multiple circuits. Still further, however, even for multiple incoming circuits connected to the junction block, different outlet receptacle modules are still required to provide electrical connections to different individual circuits. A disadvantage of such devices is that individual power outlet modules must be maintained and that the appropriate type of outlet module must be found each time a change is made to a different circuit arrangement. This is a significant inconvenience to the user and requires a large and separate inventory of parts.

In commonly owned Byrne, U.S. patent No.7,410,379 issued on 12.8.2008, a significant improvement was made to a socket assembly having multiple output sockets and that can be configured for use in multiple circuit configurations. In the Byrne patent, an outlet receptacle assembly is provided having a circuit arrangement for electrically and selectively coupling the receptacle assembly to a power supply device through a junction assembly in a series of specific orientations. In this way, any one of the plurality of power circuits may be coupled to the receptacle component.

In addition to the problems associated with multiple circuit configurations, there are existing problems with power, data, and other energy connectors with regard to the ability to design and modularize power distribution with different "types" of receptacles. That is, the junction block is wired so as to be physically and electrically connectable to a particular "type" of receptacle block, at least with respect to physical structure and wiring. Correspondingly, the junction block and the inline receptacle block are configured to facilitate electrical connection to only a single type of outlet receptacle configuration. In the past, this limitation on the use of a particular outlet receptacle was not a significant problem, in that power distribution systems were typically designed for use in a particular country. For example, in the united states, the vast majority of power distribution systems and electrical appliances use a very limited number of types of output electrical outlets.

However, under global economics and commerce, power distribution systems are marketed and used in a wide variety of developed and developing countries. However, with known systems, differently wired power distribution systems (relative to wiring blocks and other modular electrical components) must be wired and configured differently depending on the electrical requirements of the particular country in which the system is to be used. Various countries have a large number of different types of wiring and outlet socket requirements. It would therefore be advantageous if systems that could accommodate different users could be developed in different countries, while maintaining modularity and the limited number of electrical components required to have different wiring configurations.

The following paragraphs outline certain known systems that utilize various types of modular electrical components within the wall panel, various raceway configurations, and other system designs.

An example of a prior art system is shown in U.S. patent No.4,382,648 to prpst et al, issued on 10.5.1983. In the system of prpst et al, mating connectors of opposing panels are engaged when the panels are aligned. When the two boards are placed in a crossed relationship, a specially manufactured coupler is utilized. When the two boards are arranged at right angles, a special coupler of one type is used. Another type is used when adjacent plates are arranged at an angle other than a right angle. Thus, an inventory of the expense of the couplers may be maintained. The system of prpst et al uses a set of two connectors, including a male connector and a female connector, for each conductor to be interconnected. When a single one of these prior art boards crosses over two adjacent boards, one of the specially manufactured couplers connects the female terminal to one of the adjacent boards and the other coupler connects the male terminal to the adjacent board.

Another system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.4,135,775 to Driscoll issued on 23.1.1979. In the Driscoll system, each board is equipped with an electrical receptacle box, placed in its raceway. The plates of different widths are equipped with a pair of female connectors. The jackboxes of adjacent boards are interconnected by means of flexible cables having male connectors at both ends. When three or four boards are adjacent to each other in a crossed arrangement, two cables may be connected to the pair of female connectors at one end of the jackbox. In this way, the connection of two adjacent boards is achieved.

For both systems described above, and except for the special cross-relationship, half of the two terminal sets of these systems are redundant. In modern day systems, there are unique disadvantages in situations where several independent circuits are required in a wall panel system, each requiring a separate connector. The space for such circuits and their connectors is very limited in the cable duct area of modern, thin-line wall panels.

Other systems also exist for electrical connectors, junction boxes, and the like. For example, U.S. patent No.1,187,010 to Rodrigues, issued on 6/13 1916, discloses a removable and interchangeable switch plug suitable for use with a variety of electrically heated appliances. The clamping device is placed in a fixed, but detachable relationship to one end of the plug. An apparatus is provided for closing and preventing sharp bending of a wire comprising a bendable closing tube gripped by the other end of the gripping means. The plug and the clamping device can be removed from the socket simultaneously.

U.S. patent No.2,540,575 to Finizie, issued 2/6 1951, discloses a wire guide member for an appliance plug. The concept is to reduce wear on the wires and connector plugs and to provide a connection that can withstand heavy tensile stresses without injury. Stress relief is also provided. The segment body is previously provided with a terminal to an adjacent end of the body. The other end of the body contains the previous case or receptacle. A pivotable wire guide member having a pivot member is movably mounted in the socket. A wedge-shaped strain relief plug is received in a wedge-shaped recess in the pivot member. The wire extends to the pivot member and includes a conductor that passes from the wire to the terminal. The incoming portion of the wire moves around the plug and wedges securely into the groove.

U.S. patent No.4,551,577 to Byrne, issued on 5.11.1985, describes a scalable power center. The power center provides a conveniently placed power outlet adapted to be mounted on a countertop. In one embodiment, the power center includes a rectangular housing received in a slot of a countertop. A clamping device is utilized to secure the housing to the countertop. The lower projection is connected to the lower portion of the housing. A movable power cart (power carriage) mounting receptacle and a catch assembly releasably retain the power cart in a closed and retracted position. In response to manual actuation, the catch assembly is released and the spring is tightened between the power cart and the projection force to expand the power cart upward to an expanded, open position. In the open position, a user may power a desired electrical device from the receptacle and then lower the cart into the retracted position.

U.S. patent No.4,959,021 to Byrne, published on 25/9 1990, discloses a pivotable power feed connector having a pivotal connector adapted to be connected to a hose line or cable. The cable has a series of conductors extending inwardly. The connector is pivotally connected to the component assembly to which the conductor extends. The block assembly, in turn, is connectable to a contact block, the header being conductively connected to a set of pointed terminals extending outwardly from the block. The cover is secured to the component to protect the sharp terminals from exposure during assembly and disassembly.

The cover automatically exposes the sharp terminals when the power feed connection is moved into engagement with the receptacle on the modular office board. The connector allows the conduit or cable to be rotated through an arc of about 180 degrees to any desired position. The connector may also be manually removable from interconnection with the component assembly. Such removal allows the pipe or cable to be pulled back from the conductor and cut to the desired length. The header includes a power feed cover that may be utilized to partially retain the header in either of two spatial configurations relative to the component assembly.

U.S. patent No.5,013,252 to Neinhuis et al, issued 5,7, 1991, discloses a powered wall panel system having power distribution servers placed within wall panel units. The server includes four jack module ports oriented in an h-shaped configuration. The first receptacle port is located on the first face of the wall panel unit, opening toward the first end of the unit. The second receptacle unit is also located on the first face of the wall plate unit, but is open toward the second end of the wall plate unit. The wall plate unit of the third receptacle port and the second face opens toward the first end of the wall plate unit, and correspondingly, the fourth receptacle port on the second face of the wall plate unit opens toward the second end of the wall plate unit. The first and second conductors (bones) are each electrically connected at a first end thereof to the power distribution server. Which extend to opposite ends of the wall panel units and include connector ports at second ends thereof for providing electrical interconnection of adjacent wall panel units. The Neinhuis et al patent also discloses a system having wall connectors that may be interchangeably used to interconnect two, three or four units. The connector head includes hook members for connecting adjacent vertical members of the frames of adjacent wall panel units together at their lower portions. Tie rods (draw naughts) for connecting adjacent vertical members of the frames of adjacent wall panel units together with their extra portions are provided by their vertical displacement.

U.S. patent No.5,073,120 to Lincoln et al, issued on 12, 17, 1991, discloses a power distribution assembly having bus distribution connectors. The connector includes a series of bus terminals located within an electrically insulative housing. A series of electrical terminals are disposed in the housing for distributing more than one electrical circuit. At least one ground terminal, one neutral terminal, and three live terminals are provided. The ground shield partially surrounds the bus connector and includes ground tabs that ground a ground terminal to the metal ground shield. In another embodiment, two bus connectors are interconnected together to provide an increased number of output ports.

U.S. patent No.5,096,431 to Byrne, issued on 17.3.1992, discloses a receptacle having terminals that can be rearranged. The receptacle is provided with input terminals at selected locations for engagement with terminals of the electrical connection member. The junction block includes a series of terminals representing a plurality of different circuits. The receptacle component has neutral, ground and positive deflectable positive conductor bars electrically connected to neutral, ground and positive electrical terminals. The input ends of the members are formed to be incorporated with the flexible conductor bars and control levers are provided for moving the terminal ends of the conductor bars to physically different positions. In one configuration, the socket part housing is provided with apertures at opposite ends, and the flexible conductor bars have terminal ends at both ends of the output socket part controlled by levers. In another configuration, the block has output terminals on the front wall, and the input terminals of the receptacle block are formed at the ends of the flexible strips and extend at an angle of about 90 degrees to the conductor strips. They also are routed through openings in the rear wall of the outlet receptacle for engagement with the terminals of the junction block. A lever is provided on the rear wall of the receptacle block for aligning the terminal ends with the different terminals of the junction block, and an opening in the window on the front wall exposes an index number on the lever that identifies the selected circuit.

U.S. patent No.5,096,434 to Byrne, issued on 17.3.1992, discloses an electrical interconnect assembly for use in a wall panel of a space divider wall system. The system includes a junction block having several receptacle connectors to provide a plurality of electrical receptacles on both sides of a wall panel. The junction blocks are connected by means of conduits extending from both ends of the junction blocks to oppositely directed connector blocks for connection to adjacent boards. The assembly of wiring blocks and connector blocks allows electrical power to be supplied to one end of the board and directed to and through the wiring blocks to other boards. The receptacle connectors on the junction blocks each have a type of terminal configuration, such as a female electrical terminal configuration. One of the header parts is equipped with the same terminal configuration. The further connector part is provided with a mating terminal arrangement, for example a male electrical terminal arrangement. When two wall panels are joined together at their respective edges, the male connector block can be easily connected to the female connector block in an adjacent panel. When two boards are joined with a third board, all at one point, the device of the invention allows the male connector block to be connected to the female connector block of one of the other two boards, and the male connector of the other of the two boards can be connected to a socket connector of a wiring block on either of the other two boards, thus establishing a three-way interconnection device. In a similar manner, a fourth or yet further board may be added to the wiring and plugged into the socket of the further board to provide a means of fully electrically interconnecting the boards.

U.S. patent No.5,164,544 to Snodgrass et al, issued 11/17 1992, describes a space divider panel having panel members, raceways, modules, or electrical systems disposed within the raceways and raceway enclosures for achieving electrical access to the systems. The system includes a single-terminal block having end and side receptacles to which first and second electrical receptacles are removably engageable, respectively, such that the first and second electrical receptacles are disposed in horizontally spaced, side-by-side relation projecting outwardly through a receptacle opening in a cable duct cover within a predetermined optical dimension. The raceway can include a grid having openings that cooperate with support rings on the first receptacle during engagement of the first receptacle with the end receptacle to provide additional lateral support for the electrical receptacle when the plug is removed therefrom.

U.S. patent No.5,178,555 to Kilpatrick et al, issued on 12.1.1993, discloses a kit including a junction box for installation along a raceway. The kit includes a mounting bracket having a first adjustable mounting mechanism for positioning the bracket along the raceway. This provides an initial adjustment and a second adjustable mounting mechanism is provided to secure the junction box to the mounting bracket. This adjustably positions the junction box along the mounting bracket and provides a second or final adjustment to accurately position the junction box between two pre-measured lengths of cable.

U.S. patent No.5,259,787 to Byrne, issued 11/9/1993, discloses an electrical connector mounting assembly which may be utilized to mount a connector within a cable duct. The assembly includes a cantilever beam formed on an outer wall of the wiring member. This beam is provided with a transversely extending channel for engagement with a support structure. The beam is attached to the junction piece by means of a resilient hinge portion and is provided with a first arm portion extending between the hinge portion and the channel and a second arm portion extending outside the channel. The first arm portion has a ramp surface inclined away from the outer channel between the hinge portions of the plate. The second arm portion has a ramp surface inclined outward of the channel toward the wall. These surfaces will contact mounting rails or similar structures during installation of the wiring lug. In this way, the hinged cantilever beam is deflected before the track aligns with the channel for engagement with the structural support member.

Disclosure of Invention

According to the present invention, the international power distribution system is adapted to power various types of outlet sockets. The power distribution system includes an incoming power cable assembly connected to an incoming power source. A series of junction block assemblies are also provided, at least a first of which is electrically coupled, directly or indirectly, to an incoming power source. A series of cable assemblies are electrically and mechanically interconnected to at least a subset of the junction block assemblies. The junction block assembly includes receptacle receivers capable of powering a series of alternative, different international outlet receptacles having various types of receptacle jacks from an incoming power source without requiring any electrical or mechanical modification to the junction block assembly.

In one aspect, the outlet receptacle comprises an F-type outlet receptacle. According to another aspect of the invention, the outlet receptacle comprises an I-shaped receptacle having a ground tab and a pair of movable tabs (live pins) forming a V-shape. Further, the output receptacle may comprise a J-shaped receptacle. Additionally, the outlet receptacle may comprise a type B NEMA5 receptacle. Further, the outlet receptacle may comprise a type B receptacle. Additionally, the outlet receptacles may include a type G or 13 amp receptacle.

In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the junction block assemblies may each include a junction block and a pair of junction block end connectors located at opposite ends of the junction block. The receptacle receiver is disposed within the junction block. Each lug assembly may include at least one lug. The receptacle receiving means may comprise, for each junction block, a pair of receiving portions on a face of the junction block for receiving a pair of outlet receptacles. Each outlet receptacle of the pair of outlet receptacles may be of a different type and configuration than the other outlet receptacles of the pair of outlet receptacles.

Further, for each junction block assembly including a junction block, the receptacle receiving means may include a set of three receiving portions for each junction block on a face of the junction block for receiving three output receptacles. Each of the three outlet receptacles may be of a different type and configuration than the other two of the three outlet receptacles. Additionally, each junction block assembly may include a junction block, and the receptacle receiver may include, for at least one junction block, a set of four receiving portions on a face of the junction block. The receiving portion receives the four outlet receptacles, each of which may be of a different type and configuration than the other three outlet receptacles.

At least one subset of the cable assemblies includes jumper cable assemblies, each having a cable connected at its end to a pair of opposing end connectors. Furthermore, at least one subset of output receptacles may be polarized. Additionally, the incoming power cable assemblies may correspond in structure and configuration to at least a subset of the series of cable assemblies.

The power distribution system may include means for electrically and mechanically interconnecting a pair of cable assemblies to one end connector of a subset of the junction block assemblies. Further, the means for interconnecting a pair of cable assemblies may include a four-conductor connector. Furthermore, the power distribution system may comprise means for coupling each of the wiring members of the subset of wiring members to the vertically arranged wall unit.

Drawings

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a pair of countertops having a wiring member and an electrical receptacle member in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the illustrative view shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a pair of adjacent wall panels and an electrical interconnect assembly disposed on the panels, the interconnect assembly being part of a distribution system according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the distribution system shown in FIG. 3, particularly formed within circle 4 of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a rear view of a junction block according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a plan view of a junction block according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a left side elevational view of a junction block according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of a junction block according to the present invention without any receptacle block;

FIG. 9 is a right side elevational view of the junction block of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the junction block of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of a junction block according to the present invention showing the bus bar configuration for the hot, neutral and ground wire connectors as it is inserted into the junction block;

FIG. 12 is another exploded view of a junction block according to the present invention showing the bus bars in place and the end connectors and front cover in position to be connected to the base housing of the junction block;

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the junction block fully assembled;

FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the junction block shown in FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is a rear elevational view of a first international outlet that may be utilized in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is a left end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a front elevational view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 is a right side end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 20 is a bottom plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 15;

FIG. 21 is a rear elevational view of a second outlet receptacle according to the present invention, the receptacle having a three prong configuration;

FIG. 22 is a plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a left end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a front elevational view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 21 and showing three terminals for receiving the three prongs of an electrical plug;

FIG. 25 is a right side end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 26 is a bottom plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 27 is a rear elevational view of a third embodiment of a receptacle according to the present invention having three receptacles for receiving the rounded prongs of a plug;

FIG. 28 is a plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a left end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 30 is a front elevational view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 27 and showing three circular receptacles for receiving the circular plug tines;

FIG. 31 is a right side end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 32 is a bottom plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 33 is a rear elevational view of a fourth embodiment of a receptacle according to the present invention, the receptacle having three receptacles, one of which has a T-shaped configuration;

FIG. 34 is a plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 35 is a left end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 36 is a front elevational view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 37 is a right side end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 38 is a bottom plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 33;

FIG. 39 is a rear elevational view of a fifth embodiment of a receptacle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 40 is a plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 41 is a left end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 42 is a front elevational view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 39 and showing a set of three receptacles having a polarized configuration;

FIG. 43 is a right side end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 44 is a bottom plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 39;

FIG. 45 is a rear elevational view of a sixth embodiment of a receptacle in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 46 is a plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 45;

FIG. 47 is a left end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 45;

FIG. 48 is a front elevational view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 45 and showing the receptacle having a three-jack configuration;

FIG. 49 is a right side end view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 45;

FIG. 50 is a bottom plan view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 45;

fig. 51 is an exploded view of the second embodiment of the jack according to the present invention as shown in fig. 21-26, fig. 51 showing the jack cover and base jack housing and showing the clip terminals prior to interconnection;

fig. 51A is similar to fig. 51 but shows the terminal connector clip in a connected configuration;

FIG. 51B is an enlarged view of the area identified by circle 51B on FIG. 51;

FIG. 51C is an enlarged view of the area identified by circle 51C on FIG. 51A;

FIG. 52 is a side cross-sectional view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 51 and showing the receptacle cover plate prior to interconnection with the receptacle base housing;

FIG. 53 is an enlarged view of the area identified by circle 53 on FIG. 52;

FIG. 54 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 52 but showing the cover plate as it is releasably secured to the receptacle base housing;

FIG. 55 is an enlarged view of the area identified by circle 55 on FIG. 54;

FIG. 56 is a perspective view of the assembled receptacle previously shown in FIGS. 21-26;

FIG. 57 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 56;

FIG. 58 is a perspective view of the assembled receptacle as previously shown on FIGS. 39-44;

FIG. 59 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 58;

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of an assembled receptacle corresponding to the receptacle previously shown in FIGS. 33-37;

FIG. 61 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 60;

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of the assembled receptacle as previously shown in FIGS. 45-49;

FIG. 63 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 62;

fig. 64 is a perspective view of the fully assembled receptacle as previously shown on fig. 27-32;

FIG. 65 is an exploded view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 64, showing the receptacle cover plate as it is being assembled to the receptacle base housing;

FIG. 66 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 64;

FIG. 67 is a perspective and exploded view of the receptacle previously shown in FIGS. 15-20, showing the receptacle cover plate as it is being assembled with the receptacle base housing;

FIG. 68 is a perspective view of the receptacle as shown in FIG. 67, but shown in a fully assembled state;

FIG. 69 is a bottom perspective view of the receptacle shown in FIG. 68;

FIG. 70 is an exploded view showing the second receptacle previously shown in FIGS. 21-26 as it is being inserted into a junction block;

FIG. 70A is a perspective view similar to FIG. 70, but showing the second receptacle and junction block in an assembled condition;

FIG. 70B is an enlarged view of the portion of FIG. 70A, as identified by circle 70B;

FIG. 71 is an exploded view showing the first receptacle previously shown in FIGS. 15-20 as it is being inserted into a junction block;

FIG. 72 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 72, but showing the first receptacle in a fully assembled condition with the junction block;

fig. 73 is a perspective view showing a junction block used in conjunction with the first socket shown in fig. 15-20 and the third socket shown in fig. 27-32;

FIG. 74 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 73, but showing the use of a junction block in combination with a third receptacle as shown in FIGS. 27-32 and a second receptacle as shown in FIGS. 21-26;

FIG. 75 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 74, but showing the use of a junction block in combination with the second receptacle shown in FIGS. 21-26 and the first receptacle shown in FIGS. 15-20;

FIG. 76 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a junction block according to the present invention, illustrating the ability to receive three receptacles, and particularly illustrating use in conjunction with a second receptacle (FIGS. 21-26), a first receptacle (FIGS. 15-20), and a third receptacle (FIGS. 27-32);

FIG. 77 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a junction block in accordance with the present invention, showing the junction block adapted to receive four receptacles and clearly showing its use in conjunction with two receptacles of a third receptacle (FIGS. 27-32) and two receptacles of a first receptacle (FIGS. 15-20);

FIG. 78 shows a rear perspective view of a wire connecting member according to the present invention, also shown in exploded view, with attachment screws positioned to attach a rear plate to the wire connecting member;

FIG. 79 illustrates the junction block of FIG. 78 in a fully assembled position;

fig. 80 shows a rear elevational view of a cable connector according to the present invention;

fig. 81 is a plan view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80;

fig. 82 is a left end view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80;

fig. 83 is a front elevational view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80;

fig. 84 is a right side end view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80;

fig. 85 is a bottom view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80;

fig. 86 is an exploded view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80-85 and showing the position of the cables and blade terminals as they are received within the housing of the cable connector;

fig. 87 is a view similar to fig. 86 but showing the cable and terminal blade connected to the housing of the cable connector;

fig. 88 is a perspective exploded view of the cable connector shown in fig. 80-85 and clearly showing the position of the screws or blind rivets as they are utilized to assemble with the side of the cable connector housing;

fig. 89 is a right side perspective view of the fully assembled cable connector shown in fig. 88;

fig. 90 is a bottom perspective view of the cable connector shown in fig. 89;

FIG. 91 is a rear perspective view of a female cable connector according to the present invention;

fig. 92 is a plan view of the cable connector shown in fig. 91;

fig. 93 is a left end view of the cable connector shown in fig. 91;

fig. 94 is a front elevational view of the cable connector illustrated in fig. 91;

FIG. 95 is a right side end view of the female cable connector illustrated in FIG. 91;

fig. 96 is a bottom view of a cross-section of the cable connector shown in fig. 91;

fig. 97 is a perspective exploded view of the female cable connector shown in fig. 91 and showing the cable and female terminal blade as they are received within the housing of the cable connector;

fig. 98 shows the cable and female terminal as they are received within the housing of the cable connector;

FIG. 99 is a perspective view of the female cable connector of FIG. 91 and showing the two halves of the housing being attached together by screws or blind rivets;

FIG. 100 is a front perspective view of the fully assembled female cable connector shown in FIG. 99;

FIG. 101 is a bottom perspective view of the female cable connector shown in FIG. 100;

FIG. 102 is a perspective view of a fully connectorized cable having male and female ends according to the present invention;

fig. 103 is a perspective view similar to fig. 102, but in an inverted configuration, showing a connector cable according to the present invention;

FIG. 104 is a perspective view of a junction block having two receptacles according to the present invention, the junction block being shown in exploded view format with cable connector ends positioned to be received by the junction block end connectors;

FIG. 105 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 104 identified within circle 105;

FIG. 106 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 104, but showing the junction block in a fully assembled position relative to the end of the connector cable;

FIG. 107 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 106 identified by circle 107;

FIG. 108 is an enlarged view showing the position of the junction block connector when the junction block connector is preparing to receive the end of the cable connector;

FIG. 109 is a view similar to FIG. 108, but showing the junction block connectors and connector cable ends in a fully assembled position;

FIG. 110 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 109;

FIG. 111 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 108;

fig. 112 is a cross-sectional view showing an exploded view of the cable male end received by the cable female of another connector cable;

FIG. 113 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 112 identified by circle 113;

fig. 114 is a sectional view similar to fig. 112, but showing the cable connector end in a fully assembled position;

FIG. 115 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 114 identified by circle 115;

FIG. 116 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 112;

FIG. 117 is an enlarged view showing the portion of FIG. 116 identified by circle 117;

fig. 118 is a cross-sectional view similar to fig. 116, but showing the cable connector ends when partially assembled together;

FIG. 119 is an enlarged view showing the portion of FIG. 118 identified by circle 119;

fig. 120 is a cross-sectional view similar to fig. 118, but showing the cable connector end in a fully assembled position;

FIG. 121 is an enlarged view showing the portion of FIG. 120 identified by circle 121;

FIG. 122 is a rear elevational view of the power inlet connector in accordance with the present invention;

fig. 123 is a plan view of the power inlet connector shown in fig. 122;

fig. 124 is a right side end view of the power inlet connector shown in fig. 122;

fig. 125 is a front elevational view of the power connector shown in fig. 122;

fig. 126 is a right side end view of the power connector shown in fig. 122;

fig. 127 is a bottom view of the power connector shown in fig. 122;

fig. 128 is an exploded view showing various components of the power connector shown in fig. 122;

FIG. 129 is another exploded view of the power connector shown in FIG. 122 and showing the relative position of the fuse;

FIG. 130 is another exploded view showing the power connector shown in FIG. 122 and showing the position of the fuse cover for the assembly;

fig. 131 is a perspective view of the power connector header of fig. 122 and showing a power inlet line at a location received by the connector header of the power connector header 122;

fig. 132 is a perspective view showing the incoming power lines when assembled to the power connector 122;

FIG. 133 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 132 identified by circle 133;

FIG. 134 is a perspective view of the fully assembled power inlet connector shown in FIG. 122;

fig. 135 is a perspective and exploded view of the power inlet connector shown in fig. 122 when a pair of connector cable ends are positioned to be received by the power inlet connector;

fig. 136 is a perspective view similar to fig. 135 and showing one connector cable end being received by the power inlet connector;

fig. 137 is a perspective view similar to fig. 135 and showing the cable connector end in a fully assembled position with the power inlet connector;

fig. 138 is a rear elevational view of the connector terminal assembly in accordance with the present invention;

fig. 139 is a plan view of the connector terminal assembly as shown in fig. 138;

fig. 140 is a left side end view of the header terminal as shown in fig. 138;

fig. 141 is a front elevational view of the header terminal as shown in fig. 138;

fig. 142 is a perspective view of the header terminal shown in fig. 138;

fig. 143 is a bottom view of the header terminal shown in fig. 138;

fig. 144 is a rear elevational view of a single header terminal unit that may be used in conjunction with the header terminal assembly shown in fig. 138;

fig. 145 is a plan view of the header terminal unit shown in fig. 144;

fig. 146 is a left end view of the header terminal unit;

fig. 147 is a front elevational view of the header terminal unit;

fig. 148 is a right side end view of the header terminal unit;

fig. 149 is a bottom view of the header terminal unit;

FIG. 150 is an exploded view showing a set of three header terminals as they are initially placed for assembly into a header terminal assembly as shown in FIG. 138;

fig. 151 is an additional exploded view similar to fig. 150, also showing the position of the header terminal unit for assembly with the header terminal assembly;

fig. 152 is a perspective view of the connector terminal assembly as shown in fig. 138 in a fully assembled position;

FIG. 153 is an additional perspective view of the connector terminal assembly as shown in FIG. 152, but showing the terminal assembly in the opposite direction;

FIG. 154 is an exploded view of a wire connecting member that may be utilized in accordance with the present invention, and also shows a cover plate that may be assembled with the wire connecting member;

FIG. 155 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 154 but showing the cover plate assembled to the junction block and showing side connectors that may be utilized to secure the receptacle within the junction block and cover plate;

FIG. 156 is a front elevational view of the junction block and cover plate illustrated in FIG. 155;

FIG. 157 is a cross-sectional view taken along section line 157-157 of FIG. 156;

FIG. 158 is a perspective view of the cover and wiring block and side connectors in a fully assembled position;

FIG. 159 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 158 identified by circle 159;

fig. 160 is a perspective exploded view showing how the junction block and the socket according to the present invention can be mounted to the side plate by using a connection screw or the like;

FIG. 161 is a perspective and exploded view similar to FIG. 160, but showing the junction block with the cover plate and receptacle and positioned to be mounted in a rectangular slot in a panel or the like;

FIG. 162 is a side view of a junction block and cover rotated 90 degrees and showing their position with respect to a relatively thin panel having dimension X in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 163 is a side view similar to FIG. 162, but showing the junction block and cover plate used in conjunction with a panel having a relatively thick dimension Y;

FIG. 164 is a side view similar to FIGS. 162 and 163 but showing the use of a terminal cover plate in combination with a panel of still significant thickness Z;

FIG. 165 is a rear elevational view of the side connector of the junction block of FIG. 161 for holding the junction block in a slot in a panel or the like;

fig. 166 is a left side elevational view of the side connector of fig. 165;

fig. 167 is a top view of the side connector of fig. 165;

fig. 168 is a front elevational view of the side connector of fig. 165;

FIG. 169 is a bottom view of the side connector of FIG. 165;

fig. 170 is a right side elevational view of the side connector of fig. 165;

FIG. 171 is another bottom view of the side connector of FIG. 169;

FIG. 172 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 171 identified by circle 172;

FIG. 173 is a bottom view of another side connector showing a resilient tab having a compressed configuration;

FIG. 174 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 173 identified by circle 174;

FIG. 175 is a bottom view of another side connector, showing its tabs in an expanded configuration;

FIG. 176 is an exploded view of the portion of FIG. 175 identified by circle 176;

FIG. 177 is another rear elevational view of the side connector of the junction block of FIG. 161 for retention of the junction block in a slot in a panel or the like and showing the tab of the connector in a compressed configuration;

fig. 178 is a left side elevational view of the side connector of fig. 177;

fig. 179 is a top view of the side connector of fig. 177;

fig. 180 is a front elevational view of the side connector of fig. 177;

fig. 181 is a bottom view of the side connector of fig. 177; and

fig. 182 is a right side elevational view of the side connector of fig. 177.

Detailed Description

The principles of the present invention are disclosed by way of example within an international outlet system that provides various configurations of outlet receptacles. International outlet systems in accordance with certain aspects of the present invention utilize a junction block and cable connectors wherein various power and communications outlets may be selectively electrically interconnected to the junction block. Thus, the common wire connecting member can be used for various international outlets. These inventive principles will be described with reference to the systems shown on fig. 1-164.

To provide one example of background in which an international outlet system in accordance with the present invention may be utilized, FIG. 1 shows a countertop international outlet system 100. As shown in fig. 1, a countertop international outlet system 100 is used in conjunction with a pair of countertops 102. A cable duct 104 is positioned below the upper surface of each work surface 102. Each cable conduit 104 may be positioned and include the appropriate components to support the various components of the international outlet system 100.

For the receptacle system 100 itself, it includes an incoming power inlet connector 106 that can be connected to an incoming external power source (not shown). A pair of power inlet cables 108 are connected to the power inlet connectors 106. The cables 108 are connected by power inlet cable connectors 110. Opposite ends of the power inlet cable 108 are connected to opposite power inlet cable connectors 112. Each opposing power inlet cable connector 112 is electrically and releasably physically connected to a junction block 114. This connection occurs at one end of the junction block 114. A header cable assembly 116 is connected at one end to an opposite end of each junction block 114. The opposite end of the header cable assembly 116 is electrically connected to another set of junction blocks 114. This electrical interconnection may proceed to a number of connector cable assemblies 116 at junction block 114 to provide a distributed assembly for power and communication systems.

Each header cable assembly 116 includes an end header 118. The end connector 118 includes a first end connector 120 and a second end connector 122. A cable 124 connects the first end connector 120 and the second end connector 122 together. It should be noted that if desired, in accordance with some embodiments of the international outlet system of the present invention, one of the end connectors 118 may be a female end connector and the opposite end connector 118 may be a male end connector. In this regard, it is also noted that each junction block 114 includes a pair of end connectors 126. The terminal end connectors 126 may include a first terminal end connector 128 and an opposing second terminal end connector 130. As will be appreciated from the description herein below, one of the lug end connectors 126 is an end female connector, while the opposite lug end connector 126 is an end male connector.

As particularly shown in fig. 2, the junction block 114 may be utilized to selectively receive the receptacle block 132. With respect to the junction block 114 shown in fig. 2, a pair of output receptacle blocks 132 is shown to include a first output receptacle block 134 having a first particular receptacle configuration and a second output electrical receptacle block 136 having a different electrical receptacle configuration.

Another international outlet system in accordance with the present invention is described herein as a wall plate outlet system 140 as shown in fig. 3 and 4. The wall panel international receptacle system 140 is adapted for use in conjunction with furniture, such as the wall panels 142 and 144 shown in fig. 3. Although not shown in fig. 3 and 4, various components of the wall plate receptacle system 140 can be received within cable conduits or the like (not shown) associated with the interior of the wall plates 142, 144. In the particular configuration shown in fig. 3 and 4, the system 140 includes an incoming power entry connector 106 having a single power entry cable 108. The power inlet cable 108 includes a power inlet cable connector 110 and an opposite end power inlet cable connector 112. As further shown in fig. 3, the system 140 includes a set of five junction blocks 114. A set of four connector cable assemblies 116 is also included, and the connector cable assemblies 116 may have different lengths. Additionally, the power entry cable 108 may also be configured in a manner substantially equivalent to any of the header cable assemblies 116. One element shown in fig. 3, but not shown in fig. 1 or 2, is a connector terminal assembly 146. As shown in fig. 3 and in the enlarged view of fig. 4, the header terminal assembly 146 provides the ability to receive and connect two header cable end headers to the junction block end header 126. Again, this is shown in particular in fig. 4.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that further embodiments of the electrical assembly according to the invention may be devised. That is, the principles of an electrical assembly according to the present invention are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. Thus, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications and other variations to the above-described illustrative embodiments of the invention may be practiced without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel principles of the invention.

Claims (33)

1. An international power distribution system for powering different types of outlet receptacles, the international power distribution system comprising:

an incoming power cable assembly connected to an incoming power source;

a plurality of junction block assemblies, at least a first of the junction block assemblies being electrically coupled to an incoming power source;

a plurality of cable assemblies electrically and mechanically interconnected to the junction block assembly;

the junction block assembly includes respective receptacle receiving blocks configured to mechanically support and electrically power a plurality of different international outlet receptacles having different types of receptacle jacks from an incoming power source without requiring any electrical or mechanical modification to the junction block assembly; and

a plurality of electrical bus bars disposed in spaced relation and extending through the receptacle receiving member of the junction block assembly, wherein each of the electrical bus bars is configured to be electrically and slidably engaged by a respective electrical contact member disposed along a rear portion of each of the output receptacles.

2. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said outlet receptacles comprise at least one selected from a type F outlet receptacle and a Schuko outlet receptacle.

3. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said outlet receptacles comprise type I receptacles having a ground tab and a pair of movable tabs forming a V-shape.

4. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said outlet receptacles comprise J-sockets.

5. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said outlet receptacles comprise type B NEMA5 receptacles.

6. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said outlet receptacles comprise type B receptacles.

7. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said outlet receptacles comprise at least one of a G-type receptacle and a 13 amp receptacle.

8. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein each of said junction block assemblies includes a junction block and a pair of junction block end connectors at opposite ends of said junction block, wherein said receptacle receiving block is disposed within said junction block.

9. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein:

each of said lug assemblies of said plurality of lug assemblies comprises at least one lug; and

each of the receptacle receiving members includes a pair of receiving portions on a face of the junction member, the receiving members configured to receive a pair of the output receptacles.

10. The international power distribution system of claim 9, wherein a first outlet of a pair of said outlet outlets is of a different type and configuration than a second outlet of a pair of said outlet outlets.

11. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein:

each of the junction block assemblies includes a junction block; and

for each of the junction blocks, the receptacle receiving member includes a set of three receiving portions on a face of the junction block for receiving three of the output receptacles.

12. The international power distribution system of claim 11, wherein each outlet receptacle of said three outlet receptacles may be of a different type and configuration than the other two outlet receptacles of said three outlet receptacles.

13. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein:

each of the lug assemblies comprises a lug; and

wherein the receptacle receiving member includes a set of four receiving portions on a face of the junction member, the receiving member configured to receive four of the outlet receptacles, each of the outlet receptacles having a different type and configuration than the other three of the outlet receptacles.

14. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein at least a subset of said cable assemblies comprise jumper cable assemblies, each said jumper cable assembly having a cable connected at its ends to a pair of opposing end connectors.

15. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein each of at least a subset of said plurality of terminal assemblies includes a terminal and a pair of opposing end connectors.

16. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein at least a subset of said output jacks are polarized.

17. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said incoming power cable assembly corresponds in construction and configuration to at least a subset of said plurality of said cable assemblies.

18. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein:

each of at least a subset of the plurality of lug assemblies including a lug and a pair of lug end connectors; and

the power distribution system further includes a connector terminal assembly for electrically and mechanically interconnecting a pair of cable assemblies to one of the end connectors of one of the junction block assemblies of the subset.

19. The international power distribution system of claim 18, wherein said connector terminal assembly comprises a four-wire conductor connector.

20. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein:

each of at least a subset of the lug assemblies comprises a lug; and

the power distribution system further comprises a coupler for connecting each of the junction blocks of the sub-set of the junction block assemblies to a vertically arranged wall unit.

21. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein said electrical bus bar is configured to provide electrical continuity across said junction block assembly when said junction block assembly is not supporting an international outlet.

22. The international power distribution system of claim 21, wherein said electrical bus bars are disposed substantially parallel to each other and longitudinally within said receptacle receiving members of said junction block assembly.

23. The international power distribution system of claim 22, wherein said junction block assembly includes a pair of opposed end connectors, each of said end connectors including a line, neutral and ground terminal electrically coupled to a respective one of said electrical buses.

24. The international power distribution system of claim 1, wherein at least one of said electrical bus bars is configured to be engageable to different locations by electrical contacts of different ones of the international outlet sockets.

25. An electrical power distribution system for powering different types of outlet receptacles, the electrical power distribution system comprising:

an incoming power cable assembly connected to an incoming power source;

a junction block assembly coupled to an incoming power source by the incoming power source cable assembly, the junction block assembly including a receptacle receiving block;

at least one outlet receptacle having a receptacle and configured for mechanical and electrical engagement with the receptacle receiving member of the junction block assembly; and

wherein the receptacle receiving member of the junction block assembly is configured to mechanically support and electrically power a plurality of different output receptacles having different output receptacle configurations without electrical or mechanical modification; and is

A plurality of electrical bus bars coupled to the junction block assembly and extending through the receptacle receiving member of the junction block assembly are disposed at intervals, wherein each of the electrical bus bars is configured to be engaged at the receptacle receiving member by a respective electrical contact member disposed along a rear portion of the output receptacle when the output receptacle is coupled to the junction block assembly.

26. The electrical power distribution system of claim 25, wherein said receptacle receiving member of said junction block assembly is configured to mechanically support and electrically power any of said outlet receptacles selected from the group consisting of:

(i) a B-type socket is arranged on the front end of the shell,

(ii) a type B NEMA5 receptacle,

(iii) an output socket of the type F is provided,

(iv) a G-type socket is arranged on the base,

(v) an I-shaped socket is arranged on the socket,

(vi) a J-shaped socket is arranged on the base,

(vii) a Schuko outlet socket, and

(viii) a 13 amp socket.

27. The electrical power distribution system of claim 25, wherein said receiving member of said junction block assembly is configured to simultaneously mechanically support and electrically power at least two of said output receptacles.

28. The electrical power distribution system of claim 27, wherein said at least two output receptacles comprise different types of output receptacles.

29. The electrical power distribution system of claim 25, wherein said junction block assembly comprises a junction block and a pair of junction block end connectors located at opposite ends of said junction block, wherein said receptacle receiving block is located in said junction block.

30. The electrical power distribution system of claim 27, wherein the electrical bus bar is configured to provide electrical continuity across the junction block assembly when the junction block assembly is not supporting an outlet receptacle.

31. The electrical power distribution system of claim 30, wherein said electrical bus bars are disposed substantially parallel to each other and longitudinally within said receptacle receiving member of said junction block assembly.

32. The electrical power distribution system of claim 31, wherein said junction block assembly comprises a pair of opposing end connectors, each of said end connectors comprising a hot, neutral and ground terminal electrically coupled to a respective one of said electrical buses.

33. The electrical power distribution system of claim 25, wherein at least one of said electrical bus bars is configured to be engageable to different positions by electrical contacts of different ones of a plurality of said output receptacles.