CA1219307A - Modular interconnecting wiring system with molded mating components - Google Patents
Modular interconnecting wiring system with molded mating componentsInfo
- Publication number
- CA1219307A CA1219307A CA000508690A CA508690A CA1219307A CA 1219307 A CA1219307 A CA 1219307A CA 000508690 A CA000508690 A CA 000508690A CA 508690 A CA508690 A CA 508690A CA 1219307 A CA1219307 A CA 1219307A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- fixture
- switching
- interceptor
- receptacle
- joiner
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
- H02G3/00—Installations of electric cables or lines or protective tubing therefor in or on buildings, equivalent structures or vehicles
Abstract
ABSTRACT
A modular wiring system including a fixture interceptor for electrically wiring together several overhead light fixtures of an office building using modular components whereby a selected group of fixtures may be locally switched as desired. All components of the system matingly connect with other components through molded connectors and recessed sockets to provide foolproof installation and strong, wear-resistant physical connections. Each fixture is provided with a self-fastening, molded fixture interceptor having recessed input and output fixture sockets. Mating joiner cables connect a power supply to a starting fixture and pairs of successive fixtures, one end of each joiner cable connecting to an input fixture socket of one fixture and the other end to an output fixture socket of another fixture. A molded switching interceptor (i.e. switch tap box) is connected via a joiner cable to the fixture interceptor of the first fixture selected for local switching. Power from a source is provided to a recessed input switching socket of the switching interceptor and this power is then switched through a local switch connected to a recessed switch drop socket of the switching interceptor. The switched power is provided to the first selected fixture and each successive selected fixture connected thereto through joiner cables. Unswitched power is provided to remaining non-selected fixtures from a recessed output switching socket of the switching interceptor.
A modular wiring system including a fixture interceptor for electrically wiring together several overhead light fixtures of an office building using modular components whereby a selected group of fixtures may be locally switched as desired. All components of the system matingly connect with other components through molded connectors and recessed sockets to provide foolproof installation and strong, wear-resistant physical connections. Each fixture is provided with a self-fastening, molded fixture interceptor having recessed input and output fixture sockets. Mating joiner cables connect a power supply to a starting fixture and pairs of successive fixtures, one end of each joiner cable connecting to an input fixture socket of one fixture and the other end to an output fixture socket of another fixture. A molded switching interceptor (i.e. switch tap box) is connected via a joiner cable to the fixture interceptor of the first fixture selected for local switching. Power from a source is provided to a recessed input switching socket of the switching interceptor and this power is then switched through a local switch connected to a recessed switch drop socket of the switching interceptor. The switched power is provided to the first selected fixture and each successive selected fixture connected thereto through joiner cables. Unswitched power is provided to remaining non-selected fixtures from a recessed output switching socket of the switching interceptor.
Description
~Z~9307 Field of the Invention The invention relates to a system for wiring together several light fixtures and more particularly to wiring together light fixtures of a lighting installation of a type used in an office building.
Background Modern office buildings are generally constructed in a manner which permits the sectioning off of selected floor areas according to the wishes of a tenant to provide individual offices etc~ in accordance with an office floor plan designed by or for the individual tenant. Since the tenancy on any particular floor of an office building might be expected to change every few years or so, it is important that the lighting installation of each floor of the building be of a type which is relatively easily modified and rewired so that individual offices, conference rooms, kitchen and reception areas etc. can be sectioned off and provided with their own overhead lights and light switch.
For this reason, obvious advantages are provided by a modular wiring system made up of separate interconnecting components for wiring together the light fixtures of an office.
The more simple the design and construct.ion of the wiring components, the more advantageous is the system. Likewise, the more simple the method of wiring together the components, the more advantageous is the system. Simpleness of design and wiring method alone are not the only objectives of an efficient wiring system; it is also desirable that the components of the ~r, 12~.93~
wiring system be easy to work with in that they be manageable and "foolproof" (i.e. designed so that only designated components of the system -- the correct components, are capable of being connected to other components in accordance with the intended wiring method).
Summary of the Invention In accordance with the present invention there is provided a lighting installation wiring system for electrically wiring together a plurality of lighting fixtures to a ~ingle phase power source to permit separate power switching of a selected group of the fixtures, each fixture accommodating across lamp terminals at least one lamp. Included in the system and provided by the invention are a plurality of integrally molded fixture interceptors formed of a thermo-plastic material, each of the fixture interceptors adapted forinstallation on one of the fixtures and including at least two fixture circuit leads for electrical connection to the lamp terminals, the fixture circuit leads terminating in recessed input and output fixture receptacles, one of the input fixture receptacles adapted for receiving power from a power source.
An integrally mo~ded switching interceptor formed of a thermoplastic material has recessed input and output switching receptacles in which at least two unswitched circuit leads are terminated, a recessed fixture receptacle in which at least two switched circuit leads are terminated, and a recessed SWitCII drop receptacle in which at least two switch drop leads are terminated. The unswitched and switched circuit leads and ~9;~7 the switch drop leads are wired such that the switched circuit leads may be electrically connected to the unswitched circuit leads via remote switching means connected to the switch drop receptacle. At least one joiner cable comprises two joiner circuit leads terminated at first ends in a molded output joiner connector and at second ends in a molded input joiner connector whereby said connectors are formed of a thermoplastic material. The output joiner connector is adapted for mating connection to an output fixture receptacle, an output switching receptacle or a fixture receptacle of the switching interceptor such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor, the unswitched circuit leads of the switching interceptor or the switched circuit leads of the switching interceptor power source, respectively. The input joiner connector is adapted for mating connection to an input fixture receptacle or an input switching receptacle such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor or the unswitched circuit leads of the switching interceptor, respectively.
Preferably there is also provided a switching cable comprising two switch leads, the first ends of which terminate in an integrally molded switchin~ connector Eormed o a thermoplastic material adapted for mating connection to the switch drop receptacle such that one of the switch leads electrically connects to one of the switched circuit leads of the switching interceptor and the other of the switch leads 331~7 electrically connects to one of the unswitched circuit leads of the switching interceptor. The second ends o-f the switch leads are adapted for electrical connection ~o switching means for electrically connecting together the switch leads.
Preferably, the molded fixture interceptors are configured for self-fastening to a fixture, the fixture interceptor including integral fixture engaging means for engaging the fixture and securing the fixture interceptor to the fixture.
The molded connectors and fixture interceptor receptacles provided by the present invention in combination with the mating configuration of the connectors and recessed receptacles provides a foolproof wiring system which is both manageable and durable, and which provides strong physical connections between the components.
Description of the Drawings The wiring system summarized above is described in greater detail below with reference to specific embodiments of the system components as illustrated in the following diagrams in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.
Figure 1 illustrates a right-hand side portion of a building floor plan of a lighting instaLl~tion incorporating the wiring system of the present invention, the fixtures of the partitioned area shown in the upper right-hand side of the floor plan being wired for separate switching from the other fixtures shown.
Figure 2 sl~ows a perspective view of a starter cable which is used in the preferred wiring system.
Figure 3 shows a front end perspective view of a fixture interceptor in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4 shows a side perspective view of a joiner cable suitable for use in the wiring system.
Figure 5 shows a front end perspective view of a switching cable suitable for use in the wiring system.
Figure 6 shows a front end perspective view of a switching interceptor suitable for use in the wiring system.
Figure 7 illustrates the interconnection of several components used in the wiring system.
Figure 8 illustrates the wiring connections for three components of the wiring system. Figure 8(a) is a wiring diagram showing electrical connections for the switching cable and wall switch shown in Figure 7. Figure 8(b) is a wiring diagram showing electrical connections in the switching interceptor shown in Figures 6 and 7. Figure 8(c) is a wiring diagram showing electrical connections in the fixture interceptor shown in Figures 3 and 7.
Detailea Descri tion of a Preferred Embodiment P
A partial building floor (or ceiling)/lighting installation plan is shown in Figure 1 Oe the drawings in which the outside walls 28 define the ceiling and floor area and partitioned walls 29 define the area of an individual office 36 section off from the remaining floor area. A plurality of lighting fixtures 60 are arranged over the floor area as ~' ~2~93~7 desired. A main power source ~single phase) is provided at lighting panel 10, comprising a main power terminal, and a conductive power bus 20 is electrically connected to the main power source and extended away from the main power source along a length of the ceiling area. The bus 20 may be electrical conduit for example EMT or PVC conduit and may be run along the ceiling or installed in the ceiling slab depending upon the building construction. Two main power lines are provided in the bus 20 the lines together comprising one circuit (of whatever voltage is intended for the lighting installation) and, for safety purposes as required by certain building standards, a ground line is preferably also provided.
Fixtures 60 are electrically interconnected through joiner cables 90 and, preferably, through a starter terminal 40 to the bus 20 in separate groups 38 (three groups being illustrated in Figure 1). An individual office area 36 is sectioned off from the floor area thereby requiring the selection of the fixtures over this area for separate ~witching capability apart from those over the remaining floor area.
Accordingly, the first selected fixture 62 and each successive (non-first) selected fixture 66 over the individual office area 36 (themselves being electrically connected together throuc3h ~oiner cables 90) are electrically connected through a switching cable 120 to a switch 200 which may be operated to electrically connect or disconnect (through the joiner cables 90 and a starter terminal 40), the selected fixtures 62, 66 to the power bus (i.e. power supply) 20.
1%~3[)'7 One or more non-selected fixtures 65 may be connected between the first selected fixture 62 and the power bus 20, the first fixture connected to the power bus for convenience being referred to herein as a "sta.rter" fixture 64. If a starter 5 terminal 40 is selec-ted for use in the sys~em, it preferably may be a cable (for example of 20 foot length) having at one end a starter connector 50 for connecting one of the fixture groups 38 to the power bus 20 at a preselected location on the bus. Thus, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, three connector-type power access points 30 are provided on the power bus 20 by means of starter terminals (cables) 40. Depending upon the size of the floor area in any particular appl.ication an i.ncreased or decreased number of starter terminals 40 may be installed as desired with a view to increasing or reducing the number of fixtures in each group 38. Likewise, depending upon the fl.oor area, a more extensive conduit bus network might be desired.
It will be apparent to anyone skilled in the electrical trade that the size and type of power leads (i~e. conductors for carrying current) which are suitable for connecting together specific electrical components is governed inter al.ia by the power to be provided by the lead ancl the voltage and current to be applied to it. ~ccordingly, the description herein referring to power or circuit "leads" is intended to mean suitable leads for the wiring installation contemplated, the specifics of which may be readily selected by anyone skill.ed in the electrical trade.
~.219~)7 To provide separate switching capability to a group of selected fixtures 62, 66, being a subgroup of a group of fixtures 38 as illustrated in Figure 1, the first selected fixture 62 is electrically connected to a switching interceptor (i.e. a switch tap box) 150 through a joiner cable 90. Power from the bus 20 is supplied to the switching interceptor 150 through a starter terminal 40 and joiner cables 90 linking together non-selected fixtures 65. This power is then supplied from the switching interceptor 150 to a first non-selected fixture 61 and each successive non-selected fixture of the group 38 through joiner cables 90. A switching cable 120 electrically connects a wall switch 200 of the individual office 36 to the switching interceptor 150 which is internally wired in an appropriate manner so that the power supplied to the switching interceptor 150 from the bus 20 is provided through the switch 200 to the fixture interceptor ~0 of the first selected fixture 62 to whic-n the switching interceptor 150 is electrically connected (i.e. via a joiner cable 90).
Accordingly, the first selected fixture 62 is selectively provided power or not provided power from the bus 20 depending upon the position of the switch 200. This "switched" power is then provided to the remaining ones o the selected fixtures 66 (i.e. the non-first selected fixtures) through joiner cables 90, the last o the selected fixtures ending the series of cable joined selected fixtures.
Consequently, while each non-selected fixture is directly provided with power from the bus 20, each selected fixture is :~X~3307 provided with swi.tch-con-trolled power from the bus 20 controlled by switch 200 so that the lamps of the fixtures above the individual of~ice 36 to be separately switched may be locally controlled from within the office 36 via an ordinary wall switch. As will be appreciated by the reader, this arrangement of selected and non-selected fixtures may be readily changed to provide any desired number and configuration of individual groups of selected fixtures to be individually switched from the bus 20.
As already stated above, a fixture interceptor module 80 is installed in each fixture 60 (including all selected and non-selected fixtures of a group 38). As shown in Figures 3 and 7, each fixture interceptor 80 has an input fixture receptacle 83 for receiving power and an output fixture receptacle 84 for supplying power, each receptacle formed as a recessed socket below the face 88 and each having a shape distinct from the other for mating connection with the joiner cables 90. The sockets 83, 84 are electrically connected together through two fixture circuit leads 82 and a ground wire 79 which are terminated in pins 85, 86 and pin sockets 87, 81 of the input and output fixture sockets, respectively.
The fixture interceptor 80 i9 integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material oE a type ~uitable for the power levels to be provided to the Eixture and is provided with a continuous outer groove 89 around the perimeter for engagement with the walls of an aperture formed in the housing oE the fixture. To install the fixture i.nterceptor 80, the fixture circuit leads 82 provided at the back end of the fixture interceptor 80 are elec-~rically connected to the lamp terminals of the fixture (and ~he ground wire 7g to the fixture housing) and the fixture interceptor 80 is then inser~ed and pressed into the housing aperture untll the groove 89 snaps into engagement with the walls of the aperture to provide a solid attachment. This self-fastening means of attachment provides a simple but effective means of securing the fixture interceptors 80 to the fixtures.
In similar fashion to the fixture interceptor, the switching interceptor 150 is integrally formed of a suitable molded thermoplastic material as shown in Figures 6 and 7. The face 161 of the switching interceptor 150 (which, functionally, is a switch tap box) has a switch drop receptacle 156, an input switching receptacle 158, an output switching receptacle 160 and a fixture receptacle 170 each formed as recessed sockets below the face 161 and each having a shape distinct from the others for mating with joiner cables 90 and switching cable 120.
Figure 8 illustrates a wiring arrangement suitable for the switching interceptor 150 (Figure 8(b)), the fixture interceptor 80 (Figure 8(c)) and the switching cable 120 and wall switch 200 (Fiyure ~(a)). As mentioned above, the pins 85, 86 and pin sockets ~7, 81 of input and output fixture receptacles 83, 84 are electrically connected together via fixture circuit leads 82 and (preferably) ground wire 79.
Lik~wise, pins 162, 164 and pin sockets 166, 168 of the input 93~7 and output switching receptacles 158, 160 are electrically connected together via unswitched circuit leads 184 and ground wire 182. For the purpose of switching the unswitched circuit leads 184 via switch 200 one of the unswitched circuit leads 184 is electrically connected across switch 200 and returned tb the switch drop receptacle 156 and fixture receptacle.
As shown in Figure 8(b) a first one of the unswitched circuit leads 184 is electrically connected to a first one of pin sockets 152 of the switch drop socket (receptacle~ 156 and a second pin socket 152 is electrically connected to a first one of pin socket~ 172 of the fixture receptacle 170. A second pin socket 172 of fixture receptacle 170 is electrically connected to a second unswitched circuit lead 184. Since the two leads of the fixture receptacle 170 are switch-controlled leads they are referred to herein as switched circuit leads 180. Ground wire 182 i.s connected to both pin socket 154 of the switch drop socket 156 and pin socket 174 of the fixture receptacle 170. (Pin socket 151 of switch drop socket 156 and pin 123 of switching cable 120 shown in Figures 5 and 6 are unused and are not required for the switching connection described herein - as spares they are included for possible utilization in connection with another purpose as desired.) ~hen switching cable 120 i9 connected to switch drop socket 156, the switch leads 128 connect the unswitched circuit lead 184 at pin socket "B" to the wall switch 200 such that the power provided at the input switching socket 158 is transmitted ~2~93()7 to pin sockets 172 of the fixture receptacle 170 if the switch 200 is in a closed position but not if the switch 200 is in an open position. Since the fixture receptacle 170 (and pin sockets 172) connects via a joiner cable 90 to the input fixture socket 83 of the first selected fixture 62 (i.e. of the group of fixtures to be separately switched) the switched power is transmitted to all of the selected fixtures 62, 66 which are electrically connected together via joiner cables 90.
Apart from the switching interceptor 150 and the fixture interceptor 80 the remaining components of the modular wiring system are the joiner cables 90 (shown in Figure 4), the switching cable 120 (shown in Figure S) and the starter terminal 40 (as shown in Figure 2 in the form of a starter cable 40). Each of the cables includes two covered power leads and a ground wire together wrapped in an insulating material and encased in a flexible protective metal sheath 46, the length of the cables being selected as desired. The starter cable 40 has at one end a thermoplastic molded starter connector S0 (molded around sheath 46) with internal pin sockets 53, 54 electrically connected to starter circuit leads 42 and a ground wire 44, the other end 32 being adapted for electrical connection to the power bus 20. Similarly, the switching cable 120 has at one end a thearmoplastic molded switching connector 125 with protruding pins 122, 124 (an unu~ed pin 123 also being shown) internally wired (i.e.
electrically connected to switch leads 128 and a ground wire 3~)~
126 ~which, as shown, are also encased in a metal sheath 46 the connector 125 being molded around the shea~h). The o~her erld 129 is adapted for electrical connection to the switch 200.
A joiner cable 90 is used to connect together two fixture interceptors 80 or a swi-tching interceptor 150 and a fixture interceptor 80 (or, if de~sired, a starter terminal (cable) 40 and a fixture interceptor 80) as required according to the floor/lighting installation plan. For example, it may be of length 15 ft. or various lengths as desired. One end of the joiner cable 90 terminates in a thermoplastic molded input joiner connector 92 and the other end terminates in a thermoplastic molded output joiner connector 94, the input joiner connector 92 having internal pin sockets 95 electrically connected to joiner circuit leads 98 and a ground wire 99 and the output joiner connector 94 having protruding pins 96 electrically connected to joiner circuit leads and ground wire 98, 99. As for the starter cable and switching cable, the joiner circuit leads 98 and ground wire 99 of the joiner cable 90 are encased in a metal sheath 46, the connectors 92, 94 being molded around the sheath.
As noted above, each of the connectors 50, 125, 92 and 94 of the system components are integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material around the sheath 46. PreEerably each has an elongated shape and size which lends itself to convenient handling by a workperson, a top front surface portion 52 being transversely ridged to facilitate grasping.
As a result, the cable modules are easy to handle and install ~2193~)7 in a li~h-ting installation. Additionally, each connector is mated with the socket for which it is designed to connect so that it is difficult for a workperson to make an incorrect connection. The combination of connector pins or pin sockets and the shape of the connectors enable only correct connections to be made. (This in turn means that a lesser skilled workperson may satisfactorily perform the installation of the wiring system described herein, saving time and expense.) As shown in the drawings, the starter connector 50 mates with the input fixture receptacle 83 (and also with the output joiner connector 94) so that the step of connecting together the fixtures of a group 38 may be accomplished by plugging the starter cable 40 into the receptacle 83 of the starter fixture 64 (or, alternatively, by attaching the starter cable 40 to a joiner cable 90 and plugging the joiner cable into the starter fixture 64). The switching connector 125 mates only with the switch drop receptacle 156. The input joiner connector 92 mates with both the input fixture receptacle 83 and the input switching receptacle 158.
Similarly, the output joiner connector 94 mates with the output fixture receptacle 84, the output switching receptacle 160 and the fixture receptacle 170 (as well as the starter connector 50). Since each receptacle i~ forme~ as a reces~ed socket into which the mated connector fits, the connection of connector to receptacle is strong and resistant to knocking and the like.
The walls of the recessed portion of the receptacle provide a ~Z~L~3~)7 protecting and engaging subsurface area for receiving the connector.
As will be appreciated by the reader, the wiring method and system of the invention provides a simple-to-use plug-in-type modular wiring means having few components. Each component may be inexpensively made and is durable and convenient -to work with. The starter terminal 50 may be installed on the bus 20 at any number of locations, as desired, for future use (e.g. in the event that a larger number of fixture groups 38 is desired later on) thereby eliminating the need to hard-wire "live" power leads when a lighting arrangement is desired to be changed, the only lead connection required to be made being the connection of the "dead" leads of switching cables to wall switches. Moreover, the combination of the stn~cture (design) of the system components and the selected thermoplastic material (selected to have a suitable voltage rating) provides for a "foolproof" interconnecting system which can be connected (and disconnected) under full power. Other systems in the marketplace do not provide this advantage.
To make the above-described components of the wiring system, the connectors and interceptors are molded according to well-known techniques for molding thermoplastic materials from a mold (which may be configured as desired). ~s will be appreciated by the reader, it is preferable that the material selected for the wiring system components (viz. the fixture and switching interceptors and cable connectors) be slightly ~ ~L93~
resilient (i.e. non-brittle) when formed so as to facilitate the installation of a fixture interceptor and the connection of connectors into the recessed receptacles. As well, a non-brittle material advantageously provides for a more comfortable handling of the component by a workman. The popular material PVC (polyvinyl chloride), mold extruded, is preferred by the inventor as it has a high resistance and therefore, provides a safety advanta~e. Of course, the particular configurations illustrated are not necessary to n produce the results provided by the invention and numerous other designs might be equally effective. The invention claimed herein is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described above. Rather, the scope of the invention claimed is defined by the appended claims.
Background Modern office buildings are generally constructed in a manner which permits the sectioning off of selected floor areas according to the wishes of a tenant to provide individual offices etc~ in accordance with an office floor plan designed by or for the individual tenant. Since the tenancy on any particular floor of an office building might be expected to change every few years or so, it is important that the lighting installation of each floor of the building be of a type which is relatively easily modified and rewired so that individual offices, conference rooms, kitchen and reception areas etc. can be sectioned off and provided with their own overhead lights and light switch.
For this reason, obvious advantages are provided by a modular wiring system made up of separate interconnecting components for wiring together the light fixtures of an office.
The more simple the design and construct.ion of the wiring components, the more advantageous is the system. Likewise, the more simple the method of wiring together the components, the more advantageous is the system. Simpleness of design and wiring method alone are not the only objectives of an efficient wiring system; it is also desirable that the components of the ~r, 12~.93~
wiring system be easy to work with in that they be manageable and "foolproof" (i.e. designed so that only designated components of the system -- the correct components, are capable of being connected to other components in accordance with the intended wiring method).
Summary of the Invention In accordance with the present invention there is provided a lighting installation wiring system for electrically wiring together a plurality of lighting fixtures to a ~ingle phase power source to permit separate power switching of a selected group of the fixtures, each fixture accommodating across lamp terminals at least one lamp. Included in the system and provided by the invention are a plurality of integrally molded fixture interceptors formed of a thermo-plastic material, each of the fixture interceptors adapted forinstallation on one of the fixtures and including at least two fixture circuit leads for electrical connection to the lamp terminals, the fixture circuit leads terminating in recessed input and output fixture receptacles, one of the input fixture receptacles adapted for receiving power from a power source.
An integrally mo~ded switching interceptor formed of a thermoplastic material has recessed input and output switching receptacles in which at least two unswitched circuit leads are terminated, a recessed fixture receptacle in which at least two switched circuit leads are terminated, and a recessed SWitCII drop receptacle in which at least two switch drop leads are terminated. The unswitched and switched circuit leads and ~9;~7 the switch drop leads are wired such that the switched circuit leads may be electrically connected to the unswitched circuit leads via remote switching means connected to the switch drop receptacle. At least one joiner cable comprises two joiner circuit leads terminated at first ends in a molded output joiner connector and at second ends in a molded input joiner connector whereby said connectors are formed of a thermoplastic material. The output joiner connector is adapted for mating connection to an output fixture receptacle, an output switching receptacle or a fixture receptacle of the switching interceptor such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor, the unswitched circuit leads of the switching interceptor or the switched circuit leads of the switching interceptor power source, respectively. The input joiner connector is adapted for mating connection to an input fixture receptacle or an input switching receptacle such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor or the unswitched circuit leads of the switching interceptor, respectively.
Preferably there is also provided a switching cable comprising two switch leads, the first ends of which terminate in an integrally molded switchin~ connector Eormed o a thermoplastic material adapted for mating connection to the switch drop receptacle such that one of the switch leads electrically connects to one of the switched circuit leads of the switching interceptor and the other of the switch leads 331~7 electrically connects to one of the unswitched circuit leads of the switching interceptor. The second ends o-f the switch leads are adapted for electrical connection ~o switching means for electrically connecting together the switch leads.
Preferably, the molded fixture interceptors are configured for self-fastening to a fixture, the fixture interceptor including integral fixture engaging means for engaging the fixture and securing the fixture interceptor to the fixture.
The molded connectors and fixture interceptor receptacles provided by the present invention in combination with the mating configuration of the connectors and recessed receptacles provides a foolproof wiring system which is both manageable and durable, and which provides strong physical connections between the components.
Description of the Drawings The wiring system summarized above is described in greater detail below with reference to specific embodiments of the system components as illustrated in the following diagrams in which like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout.
Figure 1 illustrates a right-hand side portion of a building floor plan of a lighting instaLl~tion incorporating the wiring system of the present invention, the fixtures of the partitioned area shown in the upper right-hand side of the floor plan being wired for separate switching from the other fixtures shown.
Figure 2 sl~ows a perspective view of a starter cable which is used in the preferred wiring system.
Figure 3 shows a front end perspective view of a fixture interceptor in accordance with the present invention.
Figure 4 shows a side perspective view of a joiner cable suitable for use in the wiring system.
Figure 5 shows a front end perspective view of a switching cable suitable for use in the wiring system.
Figure 6 shows a front end perspective view of a switching interceptor suitable for use in the wiring system.
Figure 7 illustrates the interconnection of several components used in the wiring system.
Figure 8 illustrates the wiring connections for three components of the wiring system. Figure 8(a) is a wiring diagram showing electrical connections for the switching cable and wall switch shown in Figure 7. Figure 8(b) is a wiring diagram showing electrical connections in the switching interceptor shown in Figures 6 and 7. Figure 8(c) is a wiring diagram showing electrical connections in the fixture interceptor shown in Figures 3 and 7.
Detailea Descri tion of a Preferred Embodiment P
A partial building floor (or ceiling)/lighting installation plan is shown in Figure 1 Oe the drawings in which the outside walls 28 define the ceiling and floor area and partitioned walls 29 define the area of an individual office 36 section off from the remaining floor area. A plurality of lighting fixtures 60 are arranged over the floor area as ~' ~2~93~7 desired. A main power source ~single phase) is provided at lighting panel 10, comprising a main power terminal, and a conductive power bus 20 is electrically connected to the main power source and extended away from the main power source along a length of the ceiling area. The bus 20 may be electrical conduit for example EMT or PVC conduit and may be run along the ceiling or installed in the ceiling slab depending upon the building construction. Two main power lines are provided in the bus 20 the lines together comprising one circuit (of whatever voltage is intended for the lighting installation) and, for safety purposes as required by certain building standards, a ground line is preferably also provided.
Fixtures 60 are electrically interconnected through joiner cables 90 and, preferably, through a starter terminal 40 to the bus 20 in separate groups 38 (three groups being illustrated in Figure 1). An individual office area 36 is sectioned off from the floor area thereby requiring the selection of the fixtures over this area for separate ~witching capability apart from those over the remaining floor area.
Accordingly, the first selected fixture 62 and each successive (non-first) selected fixture 66 over the individual office area 36 (themselves being electrically connected together throuc3h ~oiner cables 90) are electrically connected through a switching cable 120 to a switch 200 which may be operated to electrically connect or disconnect (through the joiner cables 90 and a starter terminal 40), the selected fixtures 62, 66 to the power bus (i.e. power supply) 20.
1%~3[)'7 One or more non-selected fixtures 65 may be connected between the first selected fixture 62 and the power bus 20, the first fixture connected to the power bus for convenience being referred to herein as a "sta.rter" fixture 64. If a starter 5 terminal 40 is selec-ted for use in the sys~em, it preferably may be a cable (for example of 20 foot length) having at one end a starter connector 50 for connecting one of the fixture groups 38 to the power bus 20 at a preselected location on the bus. Thus, in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, three connector-type power access points 30 are provided on the power bus 20 by means of starter terminals (cables) 40. Depending upon the size of the floor area in any particular appl.ication an i.ncreased or decreased number of starter terminals 40 may be installed as desired with a view to increasing or reducing the number of fixtures in each group 38. Likewise, depending upon the fl.oor area, a more extensive conduit bus network might be desired.
It will be apparent to anyone skilled in the electrical trade that the size and type of power leads (i~e. conductors for carrying current) which are suitable for connecting together specific electrical components is governed inter al.ia by the power to be provided by the lead ancl the voltage and current to be applied to it. ~ccordingly, the description herein referring to power or circuit "leads" is intended to mean suitable leads for the wiring installation contemplated, the specifics of which may be readily selected by anyone skill.ed in the electrical trade.
~.219~)7 To provide separate switching capability to a group of selected fixtures 62, 66, being a subgroup of a group of fixtures 38 as illustrated in Figure 1, the first selected fixture 62 is electrically connected to a switching interceptor (i.e. a switch tap box) 150 through a joiner cable 90. Power from the bus 20 is supplied to the switching interceptor 150 through a starter terminal 40 and joiner cables 90 linking together non-selected fixtures 65. This power is then supplied from the switching interceptor 150 to a first non-selected fixture 61 and each successive non-selected fixture of the group 38 through joiner cables 90. A switching cable 120 electrically connects a wall switch 200 of the individual office 36 to the switching interceptor 150 which is internally wired in an appropriate manner so that the power supplied to the switching interceptor 150 from the bus 20 is provided through the switch 200 to the fixture interceptor ~0 of the first selected fixture 62 to whic-n the switching interceptor 150 is electrically connected (i.e. via a joiner cable 90).
Accordingly, the first selected fixture 62 is selectively provided power or not provided power from the bus 20 depending upon the position of the switch 200. This "switched" power is then provided to the remaining ones o the selected fixtures 66 (i.e. the non-first selected fixtures) through joiner cables 90, the last o the selected fixtures ending the series of cable joined selected fixtures.
Consequently, while each non-selected fixture is directly provided with power from the bus 20, each selected fixture is :~X~3307 provided with swi.tch-con-trolled power from the bus 20 controlled by switch 200 so that the lamps of the fixtures above the individual of~ice 36 to be separately switched may be locally controlled from within the office 36 via an ordinary wall switch. As will be appreciated by the reader, this arrangement of selected and non-selected fixtures may be readily changed to provide any desired number and configuration of individual groups of selected fixtures to be individually switched from the bus 20.
As already stated above, a fixture interceptor module 80 is installed in each fixture 60 (including all selected and non-selected fixtures of a group 38). As shown in Figures 3 and 7, each fixture interceptor 80 has an input fixture receptacle 83 for receiving power and an output fixture receptacle 84 for supplying power, each receptacle formed as a recessed socket below the face 88 and each having a shape distinct from the other for mating connection with the joiner cables 90. The sockets 83, 84 are electrically connected together through two fixture circuit leads 82 and a ground wire 79 which are terminated in pins 85, 86 and pin sockets 87, 81 of the input and output fixture sockets, respectively.
The fixture interceptor 80 i9 integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material oE a type ~uitable for the power levels to be provided to the Eixture and is provided with a continuous outer groove 89 around the perimeter for engagement with the walls of an aperture formed in the housing oE the fixture. To install the fixture i.nterceptor 80, the fixture circuit leads 82 provided at the back end of the fixture interceptor 80 are elec-~rically connected to the lamp terminals of the fixture (and ~he ground wire 7g to the fixture housing) and the fixture interceptor 80 is then inser~ed and pressed into the housing aperture untll the groove 89 snaps into engagement with the walls of the aperture to provide a solid attachment. This self-fastening means of attachment provides a simple but effective means of securing the fixture interceptors 80 to the fixtures.
In similar fashion to the fixture interceptor, the switching interceptor 150 is integrally formed of a suitable molded thermoplastic material as shown in Figures 6 and 7. The face 161 of the switching interceptor 150 (which, functionally, is a switch tap box) has a switch drop receptacle 156, an input switching receptacle 158, an output switching receptacle 160 and a fixture receptacle 170 each formed as recessed sockets below the face 161 and each having a shape distinct from the others for mating with joiner cables 90 and switching cable 120.
Figure 8 illustrates a wiring arrangement suitable for the switching interceptor 150 (Figure 8(b)), the fixture interceptor 80 (Figure 8(c)) and the switching cable 120 and wall switch 200 (Fiyure ~(a)). As mentioned above, the pins 85, 86 and pin sockets ~7, 81 of input and output fixture receptacles 83, 84 are electrically connected together via fixture circuit leads 82 and (preferably) ground wire 79.
Lik~wise, pins 162, 164 and pin sockets 166, 168 of the input 93~7 and output switching receptacles 158, 160 are electrically connected together via unswitched circuit leads 184 and ground wire 182. For the purpose of switching the unswitched circuit leads 184 via switch 200 one of the unswitched circuit leads 184 is electrically connected across switch 200 and returned tb the switch drop receptacle 156 and fixture receptacle.
As shown in Figure 8(b) a first one of the unswitched circuit leads 184 is electrically connected to a first one of pin sockets 152 of the switch drop socket (receptacle~ 156 and a second pin socket 152 is electrically connected to a first one of pin socket~ 172 of the fixture receptacle 170. A second pin socket 172 of fixture receptacle 170 is electrically connected to a second unswitched circuit lead 184. Since the two leads of the fixture receptacle 170 are switch-controlled leads they are referred to herein as switched circuit leads 180. Ground wire 182 i.s connected to both pin socket 154 of the switch drop socket 156 and pin socket 174 of the fixture receptacle 170. (Pin socket 151 of switch drop socket 156 and pin 123 of switching cable 120 shown in Figures 5 and 6 are unused and are not required for the switching connection described herein - as spares they are included for possible utilization in connection with another purpose as desired.) ~hen switching cable 120 i9 connected to switch drop socket 156, the switch leads 128 connect the unswitched circuit lead 184 at pin socket "B" to the wall switch 200 such that the power provided at the input switching socket 158 is transmitted ~2~93()7 to pin sockets 172 of the fixture receptacle 170 if the switch 200 is in a closed position but not if the switch 200 is in an open position. Since the fixture receptacle 170 (and pin sockets 172) connects via a joiner cable 90 to the input fixture socket 83 of the first selected fixture 62 (i.e. of the group of fixtures to be separately switched) the switched power is transmitted to all of the selected fixtures 62, 66 which are electrically connected together via joiner cables 90.
Apart from the switching interceptor 150 and the fixture interceptor 80 the remaining components of the modular wiring system are the joiner cables 90 (shown in Figure 4), the switching cable 120 (shown in Figure S) and the starter terminal 40 (as shown in Figure 2 in the form of a starter cable 40). Each of the cables includes two covered power leads and a ground wire together wrapped in an insulating material and encased in a flexible protective metal sheath 46, the length of the cables being selected as desired. The starter cable 40 has at one end a thermoplastic molded starter connector S0 (molded around sheath 46) with internal pin sockets 53, 54 electrically connected to starter circuit leads 42 and a ground wire 44, the other end 32 being adapted for electrical connection to the power bus 20. Similarly, the switching cable 120 has at one end a thearmoplastic molded switching connector 125 with protruding pins 122, 124 (an unu~ed pin 123 also being shown) internally wired (i.e.
electrically connected to switch leads 128 and a ground wire 3~)~
126 ~which, as shown, are also encased in a metal sheath 46 the connector 125 being molded around the shea~h). The o~her erld 129 is adapted for electrical connection to the switch 200.
A joiner cable 90 is used to connect together two fixture interceptors 80 or a swi-tching interceptor 150 and a fixture interceptor 80 (or, if de~sired, a starter terminal (cable) 40 and a fixture interceptor 80) as required according to the floor/lighting installation plan. For example, it may be of length 15 ft. or various lengths as desired. One end of the joiner cable 90 terminates in a thermoplastic molded input joiner connector 92 and the other end terminates in a thermoplastic molded output joiner connector 94, the input joiner connector 92 having internal pin sockets 95 electrically connected to joiner circuit leads 98 and a ground wire 99 and the output joiner connector 94 having protruding pins 96 electrically connected to joiner circuit leads and ground wire 98, 99. As for the starter cable and switching cable, the joiner circuit leads 98 and ground wire 99 of the joiner cable 90 are encased in a metal sheath 46, the connectors 92, 94 being molded around the sheath.
As noted above, each of the connectors 50, 125, 92 and 94 of the system components are integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material around the sheath 46. PreEerably each has an elongated shape and size which lends itself to convenient handling by a workperson, a top front surface portion 52 being transversely ridged to facilitate grasping.
As a result, the cable modules are easy to handle and install ~2193~)7 in a li~h-ting installation. Additionally, each connector is mated with the socket for which it is designed to connect so that it is difficult for a workperson to make an incorrect connection. The combination of connector pins or pin sockets and the shape of the connectors enable only correct connections to be made. (This in turn means that a lesser skilled workperson may satisfactorily perform the installation of the wiring system described herein, saving time and expense.) As shown in the drawings, the starter connector 50 mates with the input fixture receptacle 83 (and also with the output joiner connector 94) so that the step of connecting together the fixtures of a group 38 may be accomplished by plugging the starter cable 40 into the receptacle 83 of the starter fixture 64 (or, alternatively, by attaching the starter cable 40 to a joiner cable 90 and plugging the joiner cable into the starter fixture 64). The switching connector 125 mates only with the switch drop receptacle 156. The input joiner connector 92 mates with both the input fixture receptacle 83 and the input switching receptacle 158.
Similarly, the output joiner connector 94 mates with the output fixture receptacle 84, the output switching receptacle 160 and the fixture receptacle 170 (as well as the starter connector 50). Since each receptacle i~ forme~ as a reces~ed socket into which the mated connector fits, the connection of connector to receptacle is strong and resistant to knocking and the like.
The walls of the recessed portion of the receptacle provide a ~Z~L~3~)7 protecting and engaging subsurface area for receiving the connector.
As will be appreciated by the reader, the wiring method and system of the invention provides a simple-to-use plug-in-type modular wiring means having few components. Each component may be inexpensively made and is durable and convenient -to work with. The starter terminal 50 may be installed on the bus 20 at any number of locations, as desired, for future use (e.g. in the event that a larger number of fixture groups 38 is desired later on) thereby eliminating the need to hard-wire "live" power leads when a lighting arrangement is desired to be changed, the only lead connection required to be made being the connection of the "dead" leads of switching cables to wall switches. Moreover, the combination of the stn~cture (design) of the system components and the selected thermoplastic material (selected to have a suitable voltage rating) provides for a "foolproof" interconnecting system which can be connected (and disconnected) under full power. Other systems in the marketplace do not provide this advantage.
To make the above-described components of the wiring system, the connectors and interceptors are molded according to well-known techniques for molding thermoplastic materials from a mold (which may be configured as desired). ~s will be appreciated by the reader, it is preferable that the material selected for the wiring system components (viz. the fixture and switching interceptors and cable connectors) be slightly ~ ~L93~
resilient (i.e. non-brittle) when formed so as to facilitate the installation of a fixture interceptor and the connection of connectors into the recessed receptacles. As well, a non-brittle material advantageously provides for a more comfortable handling of the component by a workman. The popular material PVC (polyvinyl chloride), mold extruded, is preferred by the inventor as it has a high resistance and therefore, provides a safety advanta~e. Of course, the particular configurations illustrated are not necessary to n produce the results provided by the invention and numerous other designs might be equally effective. The invention claimed herein is not limited to the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described above. Rather, the scope of the invention claimed is defined by the appended claims.
Claims (8)
OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS
1. A lighting installation wiring system for electrically wiring a plurality of lighting fixtures to a single phase power source to permit separate power switching of a selected group of said fixtures, each fixture accommodating across lamp terminals at least one lamp, said system comprising:
(a) a plurality of integrally molded fixture interceptors formed of a thermoplastic material, each of said fixture interceptors adapted for installation on one of said fixtures and including at least two fixture circuit leads for electrical connection to said lamp terminals, said fixture circuit leads terminating in recessed input and output fixture receptacles of said fixture interceptor, one of said input fixture receptacles adapted for receiving power from a power source;
(b) an integrally molded switching interceptor formed of a thermoplastic material having recessed input and output switching receptacles in which at least two un-switched circuit leads are terminated, a recessed fixture receptacle in which at least two switched circuit leads are terminated, and a recessed switch drop receptacle in which at least two switch drop leads are terminated, whereby said unswitched and switched circuit leads and said switch drop leads are wired such that said switched circuit leads may be - Page 1 of Claims -electrically connected to said unswitched circuit leads via remote switching means connected to said switch drop receptacle; and, (c) at least one joiner cable comprising two joiner circuit leads terminated at first ends thereof in an integrally molded output joiner connector and at second ends thereof in an integrally molded input joiner connector, whereby said connectors are formed of a thermoplastic material, said output joiner connector being adapted for mating connection to an output fixture receptacle, or an output switching receptacle or a fixture receptacle of said switching interceptor such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor, the unswitched circuit leads of said switching interceptor or the switched circuit leads of said switching interceptor, respectively, said input joiner connector being adapted for mating connection to an input fixture receptacle or an input switching receptacle such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor or the unswitched circuit leads of said switching interceptor, respectively.
(a) a plurality of integrally molded fixture interceptors formed of a thermoplastic material, each of said fixture interceptors adapted for installation on one of said fixtures and including at least two fixture circuit leads for electrical connection to said lamp terminals, said fixture circuit leads terminating in recessed input and output fixture receptacles of said fixture interceptor, one of said input fixture receptacles adapted for receiving power from a power source;
(b) an integrally molded switching interceptor formed of a thermoplastic material having recessed input and output switching receptacles in which at least two un-switched circuit leads are terminated, a recessed fixture receptacle in which at least two switched circuit leads are terminated, and a recessed switch drop receptacle in which at least two switch drop leads are terminated, whereby said unswitched and switched circuit leads and said switch drop leads are wired such that said switched circuit leads may be - Page 1 of Claims -electrically connected to said unswitched circuit leads via remote switching means connected to said switch drop receptacle; and, (c) at least one joiner cable comprising two joiner circuit leads terminated at first ends thereof in an integrally molded output joiner connector and at second ends thereof in an integrally molded input joiner connector, whereby said connectors are formed of a thermoplastic material, said output joiner connector being adapted for mating connection to an output fixture receptacle, or an output switching receptacle or a fixture receptacle of said switching interceptor such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor, the unswitched circuit leads of said switching interceptor or the switched circuit leads of said switching interceptor, respectively, said input joiner connector being adapted for mating connection to an input fixture receptacle or an input switching receptacle such that the joiner circuit leads electrically connect to the fixture circuit leads of a fixture interceptor or the unswitched circuit leads of said switching interceptor, respectively.
2. A wiring system according to claim 1 and further comprising a switching cable comprising two switch leads the first ends thereof terminating in an integrally molded switching connector formed of a thermoplastic material adapted for mating connection to said switch drop receptacle whereby - Page 2 of Claims -one of said switch leads electrically connects to one of said unswitched circuit leads of said switching interceptor, the other of said switch leads electrically connecting to one of said switched circuit leads, the second ends thereof adapted for electrical connection to switching means for electrically connecting together said switch leads.
3. A wiring system according to claim 1, wherein said fixture interceptors are adapted for self-fastening to said lighting fixtures, each of said fixture interceptors further comprising integral fixture engaging means for engaging said lighting fixture and securing said fixture interceptor to said lighting fixture.
4. A wiring system according to claim 3, wherein said engaging means comprises a continuous groove formed in the sides of said fixture interceptor around the perimeter thereof.
5. A fixture interceptor for use in a lighting installation wiring system for electrically wiring a plurality of lighting fixtures to a single phase power source and adapted for installation on a lighting fixture comprising lamp terminals for supplying power to a lamp, said fixture interceptor comprising:
(a) a body integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material, - Page 3 of Claims -(b) an input receptacle and an output receptacle each integrally formed in said body and recessed below a face of said body said input receptacle configured to mate with a first end of a joiner cable but not a second end thereof and said output receptacle configured to mate with a second end of a joiner cable but not a first end thereof; and, (c) at least two fixture circuit leads terminating in each of said input and output receptacles and provided for electrical connection to said lamp terminals of said lighting fixture.
(a) a body integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material, - Page 3 of Claims -(b) an input receptacle and an output receptacle each integrally formed in said body and recessed below a face of said body said input receptacle configured to mate with a first end of a joiner cable but not a second end thereof and said output receptacle configured to mate with a second end of a joiner cable but not a first end thereof; and, (c) at least two fixture circuit leads terminating in each of said input and output receptacles and provided for electrical connection to said lamp terminals of said lighting fixture.
6. A fixture interceptor according to claim 5 adapted for self-fastening to said lighting fixture said fixture interceptor further comprising integral fixture engaging means for engaging said lighting fixture and securing said fixture interceptor to said lighting fixture.
7. A fixture interceptor according to claim 6, wherein said fixture engaging means comprises a continuous groove formed in the sides of said body around the perimeter thereof.
8. A switching interceptor for use in a lighting installation wiring system for electrically wiring a plurality of lighting fixtures to a single phase power source to permit separate power switching of a selected group of said fixtures, said switching interceptor comprising:
- Page 4 of Claims -(a) a body integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material;
(b) an input switching receptacle and an output switching receptacle each integrally formed in said body and recessed below a face of said body, at least two unswitched circuit leads terminated in said fixture receptacle; and (c) a switch drop receptacle integrally formed in said body and recessed below a face of said body, at least two switch drop leads terminated in said fixture receptacle whereby said leads are wired such that said switched circuit leads may be electrically connected to said unswitched circuit leads via remote switching means connected to said switch drop receptacle.
- Page 5 of Claims -
- Page 4 of Claims -(a) a body integrally formed of a molded thermoplastic material;
(b) an input switching receptacle and an output switching receptacle each integrally formed in said body and recessed below a face of said body, at least two unswitched circuit leads terminated in said fixture receptacle; and (c) a switch drop receptacle integrally formed in said body and recessed below a face of said body, at least two switch drop leads terminated in said fixture receptacle whereby said leads are wired such that said switched circuit leads may be electrically connected to said unswitched circuit leads via remote switching means connected to said switch drop receptacle.
- Page 5 of Claims -
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000508690A CA1219307A (en) | 1986-05-08 | 1986-05-08 | Modular interconnecting wiring system with molded mating components |
| US07/149,684 US4775802A (en) | 1986-05-08 | 1988-01-28 | Modular interconnecting wiring system with molded mating components |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000508690A CA1219307A (en) | 1986-05-08 | 1986-05-08 | Modular interconnecting wiring system with molded mating components |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1219307A true CA1219307A (en) | 1987-03-17 |
Family
ID=4133095
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000508690A Expired CA1219307A (en) | 1986-05-08 | 1986-05-08 | Modular interconnecting wiring system with molded mating components |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US4775802A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1219307A (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1995006969A1 (en) * | 1993-08-31 | 1995-03-09 | Burland Solutions Ltd. | Improvements relating to office power supplies |
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| US5154641A (en) * | 1991-04-30 | 1992-10-13 | Lucifer Lighting Company | Adapter to energize a light rail |
| US5297335A (en) * | 1992-08-13 | 1994-03-29 | Vancil Paul H | Method for repairing electrical cable in nuclear power plant |
| GB9306881D0 (en) * | 1993-04-01 | 1993-05-26 | Strix Ltd | Electrical coupling |
| FI94684C (en) * | 1993-10-12 | 1995-10-10 | Pk Cables Oy | Electrical installation system for a building or part thereof and wiring kit for use in electrical installation |
| US5676566A (en) * | 1994-11-04 | 1997-10-14 | The Siemon Company | Multimedia outlet |
| US5807139A (en) * | 1994-11-04 | 1998-09-15 | The Siemon Company | Surface mount multimedia outlet |
| US5844763A (en) * | 1997-01-17 | 1998-12-01 | The Wiremold Company | Electrical outlet assembly having field replaceable transient voltage surge suppression module |
| US6376770B1 (en) * | 2000-02-28 | 2002-04-23 | Douglas Hyde | Quick connecting universal electrical box and wiring system |
| US6447302B1 (en) * | 2000-10-24 | 2002-09-10 | Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation | Towing connector |
| US6540549B2 (en) | 2001-06-14 | 2003-04-01 | Dekko Engineering, Inc. | Keyed power cord |
| US6896547B2 (en) * | 2002-08-09 | 2005-05-24 | Panduit Corp. | Multimedia outlet box |
| US7331792B2 (en) * | 2002-09-18 | 2008-02-19 | Stoneridge Control Devices, Inc. | Trailer tow connector assembly |
| US7198523B2 (en) * | 2002-11-01 | 2007-04-03 | Lutron Electronics Co., Inc. | Receptacle and plug therefor |
| US6974911B2 (en) * | 2003-05-09 | 2005-12-13 | Electec Limited | Modular wiring system |
| US6749438B1 (en) * | 2003-05-22 | 2004-06-15 | Hopkins Manufacturing Corporation | Towing connector |
| US7658505B2 (en) * | 2003-06-20 | 2010-02-09 | Howell Jay E | Modular temporary lighting assembly |
| US7066616B2 (en) * | 2003-06-20 | 2006-06-27 | Howell Jay E | Modular temporary lighting assembly |
| US7192289B2 (en) * | 2004-03-10 | 2007-03-20 | Kowalski Robert S | Module with interconnected male power input receptacle, female power output receptable and female load receptable |
| US8172589B2 (en) * | 2007-08-09 | 2012-05-08 | Haworth, Inc. | Modular electrical distribution system for a building |
| CN101364691A (en) * | 2007-08-09 | 2009-02-11 | 鸿富锦精密工业（深圳）有限公司 | Power cord with switch |
| US7648379B2 (en) | 2007-08-09 | 2010-01-19 | Haworth, Inc. | Modular electrical distribution system for a building |
| US8172588B2 (en) * | 2007-08-09 | 2012-05-08 | Haworth, Inc. | Modular electrical distribution system for a building |
| US8347533B2 (en) * | 2007-10-11 | 2013-01-08 | Southwire Company | Machine applied labels to armored cable |
| WO2011015925A1 (en) * | 2009-08-07 | 2011-02-10 | Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. | Plug receptacle |
| US8888535B2 (en) * | 2012-09-10 | 2014-11-18 | Shur-Co, Llc | Corrosion resistant electrical assembly with connectors and multi-port junction block |
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| CA2851724C (en) | 2013-05-16 | 2016-07-19 | 8521000 Canada Limited | Terminal retainer for plug or receptacle of modular wiring system |
| US11031157B1 (en) | 2013-08-23 | 2021-06-08 | Southwire Company, Llc | System and method of printing indicia onto armored cable |
| US10886681B2 (en) | 2018-06-11 | 2021-01-05 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Power distribution system with electrical hubs moveable relative to tracks |
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| US2484092A (en) * | 1947-09-16 | 1949-10-11 | Roy C Hopgood | Remote-control adapter |
| CA881128A (en) * | 1969-12-15 | 1971-09-14 | Geo Space Corporation | Cable connector |
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| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1995006969A1 (en) * | 1993-08-31 | 1995-03-09 | Burland Solutions Ltd. | Improvements relating to office power supplies |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US4775802A (en) | 1988-10-04 |
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