Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
132~2~3
--1--
Descri~tion
Pivotable Power Feed Connector
~ech~if~l-Eiçl~
The invention relates to electrical connector assemblies,
and, more particularly, to assemblies for feeding utility power
into electrical receptacles.
Backg~und ~rt
In various types of environments comprising electrical
equipment or wherein electrical apparatus are otherwise employed,
interconnections o~ electrical components to incoming utility
power are typically provided by means of cables or wire~. For
example, in o~fice systems comprising modular furniture
components, it is often necessary to provide electrical
interconnections between incoming power supplies and various
types of electrical devices typically used in an office environ-
ment, such as electric typewriters, lamps, etc. Computer-related
devices, such as video display terminals and similar peripherals,
are also now commonly employed in various office and industrial
environments.
132~2~3
-2-
One advantage inherent in modular office systems is the
capability to rearrange furniture components as necessitated by
changes in space requirements, resulting from changes in the ..
number of personnel and other business-related considerations.
However, these modular systems must not only allow for change in
furniture configurations, but also must provide for convenient
interconnection of electrical devices to utility power regardless
of the spacial configuration of the modular systems and resultant
variable distances between electrical devices.
In providing the interconnection of electrical apparatus and
power inputs, it is necessary to include an arrangement for
feeding the incoming utility power to the power outlets. In
stationary structures such as conventional industrial buildings
and the like, a substantial amount of room would normally exist
behind stationary wall~ and other areas in which to provide the
requisite cabling for interconnecting incoming utility power to
electrical receptacles mounted in the walls. Such systems,
however, could be designed 80 as to remain statlonary throughout
their li~etime, without requiring general change~ in the o~fice
or lndu~trial environment areas.
Sy~tems such as those described above for stationary office
buildlng walls typically utilized rigid cables which would extend
from utility power inputs to the rear portion of electrical
receptacle boxes mounted in the walls. However, in electrical
~ystems for use in environments such as modular office
arrangements, there is o~ten relatively little room for extending
the cables between utility power inputs and electrical
receptacle~ mounted in the modular wall panels. In addition,
because of the capability of the modular systems to be arranged
in various configurations, incoming power for one configuration
may require a utility power cable extending into the electrical
receptacle area from one direction, while other configurations
would require the utility power input cable to extend toward the
electrical receptacle area from another direction. In such
_3 132~2~
event, different types of power feed connector arrangements would
be required.
Still further, as modular office systems are rearranged and ---
distances between electrical devices, receptacles and power
inlets are varied, the lengths of interconnecting conduits or
cables should preferably be adjusted. Otherwise, connector
connections can be difficult to make, and extra (and relatively
expensive) conduit or cable may be wasted. In addition, when
cable connections are being assembled behind panel walls or the
like, space may be severely limited.
Another problem associated with any type of connector
arrangement associated with providing utility power to
conventional power outlets relates to issues of safety. When
utility power connections are to be made to power outlets, it is
o~ substantial importance that the connections be properly made.
Por thi~ reason, it is pre~erable to utilize power connection
arrangements which, to the greatest extent possible, are
configured in a manner so as to substantially prevent the
electrician or other craftsperson from making an improper
connection. Still ~urther, a primary problem associated with the
interconnection o~ utility power to electrical receptacles
relates to the fact that the interconnection at the electrical
receptacle may have terminals which are "live" with utility
power. To the extent possible, it is therefore preferable to
2S prevent the electrician from coming into contact with such live
terminals.
8everal types of contact devices are known for use with
different types of electrical connectors. For example, Swiss
Patent Document No. 648,698 describes a supply plug having a
rotatable cable entry hood. The plug includes a cup-shaped
molding having guides for three plug pins. An internal cap
covers the pin terminals, and an outer shell has a cable anchor
point and space for buckles of cable wires.
~4~ 1 3 2~ 2~3
The internal cap includes a central turret having a central
threaded bore. A screw connects the plug cableshell to the
turret, while allowing rotation of the shell by 270- in either -:
direction. Holes in the cap allow the passage of the wires from
the cable to the terminals. The lengths of the wires allow~
sufficient play to accommodate shell rotation.
- In the U.S. patent to Lenkey 3,754,205 issued August 21,
1973, a connector plug is disclosed havinq a hollow open-end
housing. The open-end is closed by a single slidable sheath
surrounding both contact blades of the plug. The sheath includes
detents to engage a stop in the housing to retain the sheath and
the housing. The sheath is slidable and spring-loaded so that
pressure applied to the sheath will cause the sheath to extend
inwardly into the housing so as to expose the contact blades.
In the U.S. patent to Wooten 4,445,739 issued May 1, 1984,
two embodiments oi an arrangement similar to the arrangement
~hown ln the ~enkey patent are disclosed. A male plug
arrangement includes a slidable sleeve normally enclosing the
terminals, until the arrangement is pushed against a wall
re¢eptacle. When pressure i8 exerted toward a wall receptacle,
the ~leeve is retracted 80 that the terminal ends engage the
receptacle. Both the Lenkey and Wooten patents also show
embodiments whereby an adaptor can be utilized in conjunction
with a standard male plug so as to provide a plug having shielded
terminals.
~ he U.8. patent to Xreinsen 861,468 issued July 30, 1907
describes a contact device ior electrical conduits which includes
two oppositely arranged contact bolts, with funnel-shaped bores
to receive concave-shaped heads oi the bolts. A spring holds the
contact bolts apart, and allows a plug to make a turning movement
corresponding to that of an attached cable. It also permits the
plug to be automatically released without damaging any part of
the plug in the event that a violent "pull" occurs.
_5_ 132~2~3
The U.S. patent to Gifford 2,239,846 issued April 29, 1941
describes an electrical connection plug for connecting electrical
appliance5 to floor, wall or ceiling receptacles. It includes an
adapter plug for engaging the receptacle, with recesses
communicating with the electrical conductors and a spring
clamping member on the wire leading to the appliance. It further
includes a pair of conductor heads adapted for insertion in the
recesses of the adapter for making the connection with the
conductors.
In the U.S. patent to Perbal 2,334,436 issued November 16,
1943, a joint is disclosed for electrical fixtures. The joint is
in the form of an elbow for connecting adjacent members of a
bracket arm. The joint allows universal adjustability of one
connected member relative to the other, and is constructed so as
to o~er frictlonal resistance to the relative adjustments of the
bracket member~. The ~oint i8 ~urther constructed so as to
provlde adequate space within the ~oint for the relatively ~ree
exten~lon o~ electrical conductors through the ~oint, while
preventlng any type o~ ~rictional rubbing action by the joint
body.
The U.S. patent to Finizie 2,511,772 issued June 13, 1950
discloses an electrical connecting device having a pair of fixed
engageable enclosed contact terminals. A handle is associated
with the main body o~ the device, and includes a pivot member
~ocketed and moveable wlthin the body. Conductor~ extend through
the handle member and strain-relie~ pa~sages are provided in the
pivot member. The conductors are connected to contact terminals
by means of flexible coils located exterior and ad~acent to ends
o~ the pivot member and extending to the terminals.
In the U.S. patent to Ferguson 2,570,784 issued October 9,
1951, an adjustable electric plug is disclosed whereby a male
plug can be inserted into a conventional power outlet, and then
rotated in a plane substantially perpendicular to the plug
prongs, thereby reducing wear and tear on the plug and of the
132~2~3
-6-
wires or cording enclosed. The plug includes a hollow cylin-
drical body portion, with a shank portion extending radially
outward from the cylindrical portion. The shank portion includes -;-
a pair of cavities extending longitudinally which communicate
with the hollow interior of the cylindrical portion. A rotor is
provided within the cylindrical portion, and a pair of
longitudinally-spaced annular grooves are provided in the
periphery of the rotor. A pair of discs are fixed in the rotor
with a periphery of one disc being exposed in each of the
grooves. A pickup member is positioned in each of the cavities
and extends into brushing engagement with one of the discs. The
pickup members have U-shaped configurations and straddle the
exposed peripheries of their respective discs. An electrical
conductor is connected to the outer end of each of the pickup
members, and a pair of prongs project from the rotor parallel to
the axis of the rotor, with one prong being connected to each of
the dl~c6.
The U.8. patent to Teagno 3,601,746 issued August 24, 1971
de6cribes a two-part connector for making multiple connections to
a printed circuit panel with one part mounted in trunnions, and
wlth ~ork leaf contacts engaging tabs of the other part so that
the two parts may be rotated in the manner of a hinge to vary the
cable leadout angle. These two parts can be mated or disengaged
over a wide range o~ relative orientation, 80 as to facilitate
connections to spaced boards of a stack or in a low access phase.
The U.S. patent to Boutros et al, 4,432,592 i~sued
February 21, 1984 discloses an electrical connector having a
protective hood, with strain-relief elements. The strain-relie~
elements include a pair of opposing clamping members displaced
from an initial cable receiving position to a final cable
clamping position. The displacement of the clamping members is
effected automatically and simultaneously with assembly of the
hood to the connector without the requirement of tools.
-7- 132(:~2~
In the U.s. patent to Haworth et al, Reissue No- 31~733
reissued November 13, 1984, a portable prefabriCated panel is
disclosed with a pre-wired power system. The panel includes _.-
electrical power blocks disposed adjacent to the opposite lower
corners of the panel, with the power blocks connected by
electrical cables which extend internally of the panel. When two
or more panels are connected together, power is transmitted
between each adjacent pair of panels by a flexible electrical
connector which plugs into the power blocks of the adjacent
connector. The panel includes electrical sockets integrally
associated with the panel, with the sockets also associated with
the power blocks. The blocks are symmetrical so that the same
electrical connections can be made on either side of the panel.
A channel-like raceway extends along the bottom edge of the panel
for permitting the hidden storage o~ communication cables. The
panel aleo includes a rectangular frame formed from hollow
channel-like members which define an interior path around the
complete periphery of the panel to facilitate the ~eeding of
cables and conduits along the ~ertical or horizontal edges of the
panel.
In the U.S. patent to Taylor 1,989,893 issued February 5,
1935, an ignition cable is disclosed having a length of insulated
wire, with the wire being of greater length than its insulation
and extending beyond the end o~ the insulation. The extended
portions are re-bent toward the opposite end o~ the wire and
against the ~ide of the insulation. A tip at the end of each
cable includes an embracing ekirt, a disc-ehaped cap integral
with the skirt, and a pair o~ annular depressions formed inwardly
of the ekirt and pressed into the insulation. A laterally
extended and outwardly disposed resilient tongue is integral with
the skirt between the annular depressions, and the re-bent
portion of the wire bears against the cap and underlying one of
the annular depressions.
-8- 132~263
In the U.S. patent to Millhimes et al, 4,593,960 issued June
10, 1986, a power entry connector is disclosed for bringing power
to an electrical distribution system mounted in modular wall --~
panels. The power entry connector includes a housing, with
elements in the housing to retain contacts having tabs extending
outwardly from the housing. A spring mounted cover is provided
on the housing, to cover the tabs when the tabs are in a non-
operational state. The cover is slidably moveable to expose the
tabs, for purposes of maintaining the tabs in an operational
state.
Referring to Figure 1, reference 10 indicates a power
~unction box comprising the major part of an electrical
distribution system located along raceways adjacent to the lower
edge of modular wall panels. The junction box 10 is adapted to
receive duplex receptacles, such as the receptacle 18, which is
adapted to plug into recesses 20 located on each side of the
~unction box 10. The receptacles are energized by tabs 22
positioned on the receptacles. The tabs 22 enter lnto the box 10
through slots 24 and engaging sockets on the buss bars located
withln the ~unction box.
The electrical system is powered by current which enters
from a floor mounted monument (not shown in the drawings of the
patent), with the current entering the system through a power
entry connector 26. The power entry connector 26 allows
energizing or de-energizing of an electrical system within the
modular wall panels, by plugging into or withdrawing the
connection from a recess 20 within any given box 10.
Re~erring primarily to Figure 2 of the patent, the power
entry connector 26 includes a housing 28, back plate 30, front
plate 32, cover 34, springs 36 and contacts 38.
Referring specifically to the housing 28, the housing 28
includes a back wall 48, side walls 50, 52 and end walls 54, 56.
These walls are characterized within the patent as defining a
front opening cavity 58. These elements are shown primarily in
9 132~2~3
Figure 2a of the patent. As-also shown in this Figure, a hollow
boss 60 is attached to and extends rearwardly from the back wall
48- With respect to Figure 3, the patent shows a passage 62 -.-
which extends through the bos8, and provides access to the cavity
S s8 for the wires 40 of the connector. The arrangement also
includes various elements associated with the boss 60 which
allows a conduit 44 to be secured to the housing.
With respect to the side walls 50, 52 of the housing 28, a
latch 70 is provided on each of the walls. The latches are
hinged at one end and are resiliently removable in an arc
perpendicular to the plane of the side walls. Each latch
includes a hook 72 which faces into the cavity 58. One of the
latches is adjacent an end wall 56, while the other latch on the
opposite wall is adjacent an opposing end wall 54.
The arrangement also includes a safety stop member 74 which
1B carried on the side wall 50 ad~acent to latch 70. The stop
member 74 includes a forwardly facing shoulder 76. In addition,
a stability "flnger" 77 is located on the free edges of top wall
50 and bottom wall 52.
The arrangement also includes two blocks 78, positioned on
each end wall 54, 56, to provide shoulders so as to receive
latches 80 located within the recesses 20 on the junction boxes.
A third block, indicated by reference 82, provides a fulcrum for
purposes of utilizing a tool to release the latch 80. An ear 84
ie also positioned on each end wall. The holes through the ears
receive screws 85 so as to securely attach the connector 26 to
the junction box 10.
Each of the end walls 56 includes a pair of retaining
elements 86 which are located adjacent the free edge of each of
the walls, and which bracket a finger 88 projecting forwardly
from the free edge. An end wall 54 carries a single retaining
element 86 which is located adjacent the free edge and above
finger 88 located on the edge of the wall. In addition, stop
elements 90 are provided on the inside surfaces of each side and
13 2 ~ 2 ~3
--10--
end wall. Further, a pair of parallel channels 92, 94 are cut
into the inside surface of side wall 50. In addition, a single
channel 96 is cut into the inside surface of the side wall 52.
The back plate 30 is illustrated in Figures 2, 4 and 5. As
shown ~n Figure 2, a number of openings extend through the plate
30. Two of the openings are indicated by reference 104, and are
counter-bored so as to provide a spring receiving section opening
into the front face, with a smaller, pin receiving section
opening into the back face. These two openings are located near
a diagonally-opposite openings of the plate. A second set of
openings, indicated by 106, are also counter-bored in a similar
manner.
Two contact passages 108, 110 are located on one side of the
plate. The two passages are displaced vertically and
horizontally relative to each other. In addition, an additional
two contact passages are located toward the other side of the
plate. These two passages are positioned one over the other.
Each o~ the four passages includes slot sets along two opposing
walls. Each ~et includes two slots on the same plane and with
each slot being in an opposing wall. One set, identified in the
patent by numeral 116, extends through the passage. A second
set, indicated by numeral 118 in Figure 4, extends a short
distance back into the passage from the plate's ~ront face. The
slots are also shown in Figure 2, with the short or second slots
118 being above the first set of slots 116 and passages 108, 110,
and below the first set of passages 112, 114. In addition to the
contact passages, two contact channels 120, 122 are positioned on
the upper edge of the plate 30. An additional contact channel
124 is positioned on the bottom edge, directly below the passages
112, 114. When the plate 30 is positioned within the housing 28,
these channels cooperate with channels 92, 94 and 96 so as to
form contact passages.
The back face 102 of the plate 30 is primarily shown in
Figure 2a. Rearwardly projecting walls, indicated by numeral
132~3
126/ extend the length of the aforedescribed passages and
channels, beyond the back face. RearwardlY projecting bars 128
are located around the periphery of the plate, so as to meet the ;
stop elements 90 when the plate 30 is positioned within the
housing 28.
The front face 130 of the plate 32 is primarily shown in
Figure 2, with sectional views also shown in Figures 3, 6 and 7.
A pair of openings 132, located near diagonally opposite corners
of the plate 32, extend therethrough. Slits 134 extend through
the plate and are positioned to be in line with the slots 118 in
the passages in plate 30 when the two plates are positioned
together in housing 28. Correspondingly, notches 136, 138 are
provided in one edge of the plate near one corner. A single
notch 140 is provided in the opposite edge of the plate near a
diagonally opposite corner. These notches are in line with
channel~ 120, 122 and 124, respectively, in plate 30 when the two
plates are positioned together. A recess 142 is also provided in
each o~ tho two elongated edges of the plate.
The cover 34 is primarily shown in Figures 1 and 2, and also
sectionally illustrated in Pigures 3, 6 and 7. The cover 34
includes a front wall 144, side walls 146, 148 and end walls 150,
152. A series o~ slits 156 extend through the front wall and
into a cavity 154 formed by the five walls of the aover 34. The
slits are in registration with the slit8 134, and with notches
136, 140 when the power entry connector is assembled. An
additional slit 157, ad~acent one of the slits 156 and located
next to the side wall 146, is in registration with the hotch 138
and channel 122.
Referring to one end of the cover 34, a pair o~ slits 158
are provided. An additional slit 158 is also provided on the
opposite end of the cover. The slits comprise core pin access
openings for the purpose of providing grooves 160 along inside
surfaces of the end walls, and a forwardly facing shoulder 162.
132~2~3
--12--
In addition to the slits 158, additional slits 164 of
somewhat greater width are also provided in the front wall.
These slits receive fingers 88 in the housing 28, when the -~
connector is assembled and plugged into the recess 20 within the
box 10. Additional slits 165 are also provided in the front wall
adjacent side walls 146, 148 so as to receive stabilizing fingers
77. A cutout 166 is also pro~ided in each of the end walls 150,
152.
The arrangement also includes a series of contacts 38 which
are stamped and formed from a conductive material. Each of the
contacts includes a tab 170. The contacts include "hot",
"neutral", and "ground" wire interconnections. Each of the
contacts also includes a pair of laterally projecting ears 176.
The assembly of the power entry connector 26 is primarily
illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. Specifically, a threaded stud 68
is posltioned within the cavlty 58 of the housing 28. The
conduit connector 44 is secured to the housing 28 with a lock
ring 46 threaded onto the stud 68. The contacts 38 are then
interconnected with the wires 40 and threaded through the conduit
connector and housing 28.
The contacts are then threaded through the appropriate
passages and channels within the plate 30. These aontacts are
passed through various a~oredescribed passages, and the back face
of the plate 32 is abutted against the ~ront ~ace 100 of the
plate 30. Snap pins on the plate 32 are forced through openings
106 for temporarily retaining the contacts between the plates.
With the plates 30 and 32 positioned together, they are then
positioned within the housing 28. As the two plates are moved
into the cavity 58, the latches 70 are biased until the plate 32
passes behind the hook 72. The latches 70 then snap back to
bring the hook in front of the plate 32 and into the recesses
142. In this manner, the latches removably lock the two plates
within the housing 28 as primarily shown in Figures 6 and 7.
132~2~3
-13-
The cover 34 is then added for purposes of completing the
assembly. Specifically, the coil springs 36 are located on the
pins 168 (as shown in Figure 6). The sidewalls 146, 148 and end
walls 150, 152 slide over the side walls 50, 52 and end walls 54,
56 of ~he housing 28. The end walls 150, 152 bow slightly in
passing over the retaining elements 86 until the elements 86
enter the grooves 160. The retaining elements, in cooperation
with the shoulders 162 defined by the grooves, removally retain
the cover on the housing as primarily shown in Figures 1, 6 and
7. In this manner, the cover 34 can then be moved back and forth
on the housing for the length of the grooves.
The pins 168 slide through the openings 132 and 104. The
coil springs 36 are located within the openings 132 and sections
104. The forwardly facing shoulder defined by the counter bores
in openings 104 and the inside surface of front wall 144 of the
cover capture the coil springs therebetween.
The connector arrangement, without the cable conduit 44 and
four of the six wlres 40 and associated contacts, is shown in a
sectional manner in Figure 6 in a non-functioning state. That
i5, the springs 36 urge the cover 34 forwardly away from the
housing 28 so that the tabs 170 are isolated by the cover. In
this manner, two safety features are provided. Specifically, the
stop member 74 is configured so that the cover 34 abuts the
shoulder 76, and cannot be moved Purther rearwardly until the
member 74 is depressed. The second safety feature includes
cutout~ 166. The cutouts 166 provide a recess for blocks 78 as
the cover moves back on the housing 28. With the cover in its
forwardly extending position as primarily shown in Pigure 1, the
cutout space provides an access into the cover cav~ty 154 and
contact tabs 170, except for the forwardly extending fingers 88.
These fingers 88 block such an access.
Figure 7 is a sectional view similar in configuration to
Figure 6; However, in Figure 7, the connector 26 is shown as if
plugged into the recess 20 within the box 10. The connector 26
-14- 132~2~3
moves into the recess 20 until the cover 34 encounterS a back
wall to recess. At that point, assuming that the stop member 74
is depressed, the rest of the connect continues to move forward- -:
The tabs 170 pass through slits 156 and into sockets on the buss
s bars within the box by means of slots 24. The coil springs 36
are compressed and the free ends of the pins 168 enter the cavity
58 of the housing 28 by means of openings 104. When the
connector 26 is fully moved into the recess, the latches 80 are
"caught" on the block 78 so as to releasably lock the connector
10 to the box. The connector is then made more secure against an
inadvertent withdrawal by securing self-tapping screws 85 into
the box 10 through holes in ears 84 in the housing. The holes
178 are provided on the box to receive the screws.
The connector 26 can be released from the junction box 10 by
15 removing the aforementioned screws and prying back the latches
80. For this function, a screwdriver tip or similar tool can be
in~erted against the latch, and the block 82 utilized as a
fulcrum. In thi~ manner, the latch is "pried" of~ the block 78.
Although the Millhimes et al arrangement provides a power entry
20 connection assembly, the arrangement does not appear to provide
any ~acilitation of adjustment of the cable conduit position
relative to the power connector and junction box.
Summary of the Invention
In accordance with the invention, a power feed assembly is
25 adapted to supply electrical power and/or ground voltage~ to an
electrical receptacle means. The receptacle means is
correspondingly adapted to be located in a wall panel, support
surface or the like, and connectable to various types of
electrical apparatus or to other receptacle means. The power
30 feed assembly includes pivotal connector means adapted to be
secured to a conduit or cable having at least one conductor
capable of carrying electrical power or ground voltage prior to
-15- 132~2~3
any electrical connection to the electrical receptacle means-
Pivot block means are pivotably connectable to the pivotal
connector means so as to provide a pivot connectiOn relative to ~'
the conduit or cable.
T,he assembly also includes contact block means connectable
to the pivot block means and having at least one prong terminal
electrically connectable to the conductor. ProtectiVe cover
means are adapted to be slidably secured to the contact block
means to selectively cover the prong terminal. The assembly also
includes means ~or selectively locking the pivotal connector
means in a fixed position relative to the pivot block means.
The pivotal connector means includes first pivot means to
pivotably connect the pivotal connector means to the pivot block
means. The pivot block means includes second pivot means
connectable to the first pivot means to pivotably connect the
plvot block means to the pivotable connector means. The first
plvot means i~ lnterconnectable with the second pivot means in a
manner ~o as to allow the conduit or cable to ~reely swivel
throughout a range of at léast approximately 180- relative to the
pivot,bloak means. The ~irst pivot means can include one pair of
trunnions, and the second pivot means can include at least one
pair o~ connecting standards. Each of the standards includes
means to pivotably receive one o~ the trunnions.
The pivotal connector means can also be characterized as
havlng fir~t lnterconnection means to removably interconnect the
pivotal connector means wlth the pivot block means.
Correspondlngly, the pivot block means can be characterized as
compri~ing ~econd inter-connection means removably connectable to
the pivotal connector means to removably interconnect the pivot
block means to the pivotal connector means. The conduit or cable
is secured to the pivotal connector means and the first
interconnection means is interconnectable with the second
interconnection means in a manner so that the pivotal connector
means iB manually removable from the pivot block means
-16- 132~2~3
independent of requiring the use of tools or the like- The
conduit or cable can thus be pulled back from the pivot block
means independent of and relative to the conductor for purposes --:
of modifying the length of the conduit or cable.
The first interconnection ~eans can be removably snap-fitted
into the second interconnection means, and can include a pair of
flanges, with each of the flanges having a trunnion mounted
thereon. Correspondingly, the second interconnection means can
include a pair of connecting standards, with each of the
standards having a trunnion hole and an opening extending
outwardly from the hole. Each of the trunnions can then be snap-
fitted into and manually removed from a corresponding trunnion
hole through a corresponding opening.
The power feed assembly also includes latching means
associated with the contact block means and the protective cover
means, The latching means is adapted to removably latch the
protective cover means in a first po~ition relative to the
contact block means as the protective cover means is ~irst
slidably engaged onto the contact block means. In this manner,
the protective cover means shields the prong terminal when the
cover means is in the first position. The latching means can
include a plurality of recesses located in the contact block
means and opening laterally outwardly therefrom. The latching
means can also include slot means located in the protective cover
means, and resilient plug means resiliently positioned in the
plurality o~ recesses. The resilient plug means is adapted to
engage the slot means as the protective cover means is slidably
recelved onto the contact block means.
The slot means can include a plurality of T-shaped slots,
with each of the slots having a first slot and an elongated
second slot perpendicular to the first slot. The resilient plug
means can include a plurality of latch plugs corresponding in
number to the number of slots. The latch plugs can be adapted to
lockabl~ engage the first slots of the T-shaped slots when the
-17- 132~2~3
protective cover means is in the first position. The latch plugs
can also be adapted to slidably engage the second slots of the T-
shaped slots when the protective cover means is in the second
position.
The latch plugs can be resiliently positioned in the
recesses so that when the latch plugs are engaged with the first
slots of the T-shaped slots, the protective cover means is in the
first position and all of the latch plugs must be simultaneously
compressed toward the recesses so as to disengage the protective
cover means from the first position and move the same toward the
second position. The latch plug means can also include spring
means for resiliently urging outwardly each of the latch plugs
from the recesses.
Each of the latch plugs can include a stepped end having
outer ledges adapted to abut side walls adjacent the first slots
o~ the T-shaped slots when the protective cover means is in the
~irst position. Intermediate ledges are adapted ta abut side
walls ad~acent the second slots of the T-shaped slots when the
protective cover means is in the second position. Each latch
plug also includes a terminating end extending outwardly between
the intermediate ledges. Each terminating end is adapted to be
received in a second slot of each T-shaped slot when the
protective cover means is moved from the first position to the
second position. The terminating end of each latch plug can be
beveled so as to cause each plug to compress inwardly toward its
corresponding recess when the protective cover means engages the
receptacle means.
The latching means can be con~igured so as to automatically
unlatch the protective cover means from the first position as the
power feed assembly physically engages the electrical receptacle
means. The latching means can also allow the protective cover
means to move to a second position relative to the contact block
means, whereby the prong terminal is exposed and electrically
connectable to the receptacle means. The assembly can also
132~2~3
-18-
include resilient means disposed between the contact block means
and the protective cover means to exert forces on the protective
cover means tending to urge the protective cover means toward the -~
first position.
Th"e contact block means can include locking wedge means to
removably lock the power feed assembly into the receptacle means.
The receptacle means can include''retainer means to removably
retain the power feed assembly within the receptacle means. The
pivot block means can include lock tab means engageable with the
receptacle means to removably lock the power feed assembly into
the receptacle means. Correspondingly, the electrical receptacle
means can include cavities adapted to receive the lock tab means
to removably lock the assembly into the receptacle means.
The retainer means of the electrical receptacle means can
have a shape and resiliency so as to flex sufficiently to allow
the locking wedge means to pass by the retainer means as the
power feed assembly engage~ the receptacle means. The retainer
mean~ can also have a shape so as to prevent outward movement of
the power feed assembly from the receptacle means in the absence
o~ any manual flexure of the retainer means.
The locking wedge means can include a pair of wedgeshaped
tabs having a lower beveled face. Correspondingly, the retainer
means can include a pair of spring tabs, with each tab having a
resilient elongated portion terminating in a retainer lip having
an upper beveled face. The pivot block mean~ can include a pair
of lock tabs pivotable relatlve to the pivot block means, with
the receptacle means having a pair of cavities formed between
side walls of the receptacle means and the retainer means, ~o
that each of the cavities is adapted to receive one of the lock
tabs.
The pivotal connector means can include a main portion
through which the conductor is extended. In addition, the
pivotal connector means can also include extending flanges
connected to outer sides of the main portion. Means are
-lg- 132Q2~
associated with each of the flanges to allow pivotable movement
of the pivotal connectar means relative to other elements of the
power feed assembly. In addition, a pair of bores extend through -
the main portion.
The pivot block means can include a flat rectangular portion
having downwardly-extending edges at the periphery thereof. A
pair of connector standards extends upwardly from the rectangular
portion. Means are associated with each connector standard to
receive trunnions of the pivotal connector means to accord
pivotable movement of the connector méans relative to the pivot
block means.
The contact block means can include a set of metallic prong
terminals extending downwardly from an underside portion of the
contact block means. The contact block means can also include a
~eries of rece~ses located in side walls of the contact block
means. Further, a pair of locking wedges can extend outwardly
from oppo~ing end walls o~ the contact block means.
~ he protective cover means can include a ~lat rectangular
portion having a pair of upwardly-extending opposing side
portion~ and a pair of upwardly-extending opposing end portions.
A series of prong terminal slots are located in the flat
rectangular portion, and a series of T-shaped slots are located
in the ~ide portions o~ the protective cover means.
The power feed assembly can also include key means located
on the protective cover means. The key means can be adapted so
as to ensure that the power feed assembly can engage the
electrical receptacle means only in one spatial con~iguration.
Brief Description of the Drawinas
The invention will now be described with reference to the
drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a
pivotable power feed connector in accordance with the invention,
-20- 132~26~
and further showing a partial perspective view of a portion of a
modular office panel having a connector receptaCle area in which
the pivotable power feed connector can be engaged;
Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the pivotable
S power ~eed connector shown in Figure 1 in accordance with the
invention, but excluding in part the cable interconnectin within
the connector:
Figure 3 is an elevation view of the pivotable power feed
connector shown in Figure 1 in accordance with the invention,
with the protective cover in an extended position and the power
feed connector initially engaging the connector receptacle;
Figure 4 is a sectional view, similar to Figure 3, of the
pivotable power feed connector shown in Figure 1 in accordance
with the invention, taken along section lines 4-4 of Figure 2 and
showing the power feed connector engaging the connector
receptacle, with the protective cover in a retracted position;
Figure 5 is an exploded view of an exemplary pivot block
assembly o~ the pivotable power feed connector shown in Figure l
ln accordance with the invention;
Figure 6 is a partial sectional view showing an exemplary
latch plug and spring arrangement for the pivotable power feed
connector shown in Figure 1 in accordance with the invention,
taken along section lines 6-6 of Figure 2;
Figure 6A i8 a further sectional view of the latch plug and
spring arrangement shown in Figure 6, taken along section lines
6A-6A of Figure 6 and showing the beveled configuration o~ a
terminating end of the plug;
Figure 7 is a partial sectional view of a screw and spring
arrangement for interconnecting the pivot block assembly and
contact block of the pivotable power feed connector shown in
Figure 1 in accordance with the invention, taken along section
lines 7-7 of Figure 2;
Figure 8 is a perspective view of the pivotable power feed
connector shown in Figure l in accordance with the invention, and
132~2~3
-21-
further showing the pivotal connector disengaged from the pivot
block assembly for purposes of adjusting the conduit length;
Figure 9 is an exploded view of the pivotable power feed ...
connector shown in Figure 1, the view being similar to the view
of Figure 2, but showing the underside portions of the elements
of the power feed connector:
Figure 10 is a simplified exploded perspective view of a
modified version of the pivotable power feed conneator shown in
Figure 1 in accordance with the invention, showing a modified
locking arrangement between the power feed connector and the
connector receptacle;
Figure 11 i8 a sectional view showing a partial illustration
of the locking arrangement between the power feed connector and
the connector receptacle, with the power feed connector in an
"unlocked" position;
Plgure 12 is a partial sectional view similar to Figure 11,
but showing the power feed connector in a "locked" position; and
Flgure 13 is a partial sectlonal view of a modified version
o~ a trunnion interconnection between the pivotal connector and
the pivot bloc~ assembly.
Detailed Description
The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of
example, in a pivotable power feed connector 100 as depicted in
Figures 1-13. The pivotable power feed connector 100 i8 adapted
for use to provide utility power to one or more electrical
receptacles, junction boxes or similar arrangements, wherein
power can then be fed to conventional electrical apparatus. The
power feed connector 100 provides an arranqement whereby cabling
can extend from the main body of the power feed connector 100 in
selective directions, and assembly and disassembly of the power
feed connector 100 from the electrical receptacle junctions can
be made in a convenient and, in particular, safe manner.
-22- ~32~3
With reference specifically to Figure 1, the pivotable power
feed connector 100 is adapted to engage other electrical
apparatus such as a connector receptacle and junction box 102. -~.
The connector receptacle 102 can be mounted in a wall or similar
support structure such as the modular panel 104 shown in partial
section in Figure 1. The modular panel 104 can be a conventional
modular office wall panel or the like, having a rear side 106,
panel end 110 and lower rear side back panel 108. The depth of
the modular panel 104 can be of various dimensions. The portion
of the rear side 106 above the back panel 108 can be covered with
a fabric or other cover of similar composition.
The connector receptacle 102 is located in the rear back
panel base 108 a~ further shown in Figure 1. The receptacle 102
includes a block 112 having electrical outlets (not shown)
pro~ecting toward the front portion of the modular panel 104 for
purposes of interconnecting various electrical apparatus. These
electrical outlets on the ~ront of the panel 104 can be energized
by the in~ertion of live electrical terminals from the pivotable
power ~eed connector 100 into the receptacle terminal slots 114.
In addition to the connector receptacle 102, various other types
o~ connector receptacles can be utilized with a pivotable power
~eed connector in accordance with the invention. The connector
receptacle 102 is commercially available and relatively
conventional in structure. However, certain specific structural
elements associated wlth the receptacle 102 are advantageous to
interconnection of the power feed connector 100 in accordance
with the invention. These elements will be described in
sub~eguent paragraphs herein.
Although not shown in the drawings and not forming the basis
for any principle concepts of the invention, the connector
receptacle 102 can include elements such as side connectors which
can be utilized with other cabling for purposes of energizing one
or more additional connector receptacles in the modular panel
104. As will be described in greater detail herein, the
132~2~
-23-
pivotable power feed connector 100 is also adapted for use with
modular panels of varying depths. In addition, it should be
emphasized that the power feed connector 100 in accordance with --'
the invention can be utilized with other types of walls or office
structu,res.
The pivotable power feed connector lO0 in accordance with
the invention will now be described in detail, primarily with
respect to the exploded views of Figures 2 and 9, and the partial
views of Figures 3-7. As shown in Figures 2 and 9, the power
feed connector 100 includes a pivotal connector 116 secured by
any suitable means (not shown) to a conduit or similar cable 118.
The conduit or cable 118 is preferably flexible and can be any
one of numerous conventional cables. The conduit or cable 118 is
typically connected to incoming utility power.
Running through the ~lexible cable or conduit 118 are a
~erle~ of conductors 120, each typically carrying utility power
and/or ground voltages. The conductors 120 will carry the actual
power to be applied to the electrical receptacles within the
modular panel 104.
The pivotal connector 116 includes a main body portion 122
through which the series oi conductors 120 extend. The main body
portion 122 is substantially rectangular in shape and includes a
pair of bores 124 extending therethrough. Integral with or
other~dise connected to one side o~ the main body portion 122
oppo~ing the side of the main body portion to which the conduit
118 is connected i~ a yoke-like structure 126 comprising a pair
of parallel extending flanges 128 having a semi-circular
con~iguration as primarily shown in Figures 2 and 8. Each of the
extending flanges 128 includes a laterally projecting trunnion
130 in the form of a cylindrical projection. Only one of the
trunnions 130 is shown in Figures 2, 9 and 8. As subsequently
described in greater detail herein, the flanges 128 and trunnions
130 comprise a means for allowing pivotal movement of the pivotal
connector 116 relative to other elements of the power feed
-24 ~32~2~
connector loO. In addition, as also described subsequently
herein, the interconnection of the flanges 128 and trunnions 130
to other elements of the connector 100 provide a means for J
disengagement of the connector 116 from the other power feed
5 connector elements so as to adjust the length of the conduit 118.
The power feed connector 100 also includes a pivot block
assembly 132 as shown primarily in Figures 2, 9 and 5. The pivot
block assembly 132 includes a central body section 134 (Figure 2)
having a substantially rectangular configuration and formed by a
10 pair o~ substantially equivalent components designated in Figure
5 as a first half section 136 and a second half section 138.
Referring specifically to Figure 5, the first half section 136
includes a substantially flat rectangular portion 140 having a
connecting standard 142 projecting upwardly (as shown in Figure
15 5) from the central area of the rectangular portion 140 along one
edge thereof. The connecting standard 142 includes a circular
trunnlon slot 144 having a flared opening 146 projecting upwardly
therefrom. In addition, the first half sectlon 136 also includes
a pair of rectangular ledges 148 integral wlth or otherwise
20 connected to the rectangular portion 140 and projecting upwardly
there~rom at opposing ends of the rectangular portion 140. Each
o~ the ledges 148 includes a bore 150 extending completely or
partially through the corresponding ledge 148 and the rectangular
portion 140.
In additlon to the foregoing, the ~irst half section 136
also includes a pintle 152 as further ~hown in Figure 5. The
pintle 152 is integral with or otherwise secured to an inwardly
directed wall of the first half section 136, and is positloned on
one side of a recess 154 formed along one side of the central
area of the rectangular portion 140. Correspondingly, the first
half section 13b also includes a pintle hole 153 positioned on
the same inwardly directed wall as the pintle 152, but further
positioned on an opposing side of the recess 154.
132~2~
-25-
The second half section 138 is substantiallY similar to the
previously described first half section 136. That is, the second
half section 1~8 also includes a rectangular portion 156, with a
connecting standard 158 projecting upwardly from the rectangular
portion 156 at a central area along one side thereof. The
connecting standard 158 includes a trunnion slot 160 having a
circular configuratiOn and opening upwardly into a flared opening
162. In addition, the second half section 138 also includes a
pair of rectangular ledges 164 integral with or otherwise
connected to an upper surface of the rectangular portion 156 at
opposing ends thereof. Each of the ledges 164 includes a bore
166 extending completely or partially through the corresponding
ledge 164 and the rectangular portion 156.
Still ~urther, the second half section 138 also includes a
pintle 152 ~partially shown in Figure 5) integral with or
otherwise secured to an inwardly directed wall of the half
section 138. For assembly purposes described subsequently
herein, the plntle 152 on the second hal~ section 138 is
preferably positioned on one side o~ a recess 167 formed along
one slde o~ the central area of the rectangular portion 156, and
ls pre~erably in alignment with the pintel hole 153 on the first
hal~ section 136. In addition, the second half section 138
~urther includes a pintle hole (not shown) preferably positioned
on the same inwardly directed wall as the pintle 152, but further
positioned on an oppo~ing side of the recess 167.
In addition to the fir~t and second hal~ sections 136, 138,
respectfully, the pivot block assembly 132 also includes a pair
o~ lock tabs 168 as shown primarily in Figures 2 and 5. With
rePerence specifically to Figure 5, each of the lock tabs 168
includes an inwardly projecting arm 170 having a rounded distal
end with a bore 172 extending transversely through the arm l70.
The projecting arm 170 has its opposing end integral with or
otherwisé connected to a finger portion 174. .The finger portion
174 of each of the lock tabs 168 includes a f~rst extension 176
..
-26- 132~2~
projecting at a right angle to the relativelY long axis of the
projecting arm 170. A second extension 178 is integral with a
corresponding one of the first sections 176 and extends outwardly ~;
at right angles thereto. A further third extension 180 projects
downwardly at a right angle to the corresponding second extension
178. Still further, a slot 184 extends transversely across the
upper portion of the third extension 180 adjacent the integral
interconnection with the second extension 178. The purposes of
the slot 184 will be described in subsequent paragraphs herein.
The pivot block assembly 132 is assembled by mating the
substantially identical first half section 136 and second half
section 138 together, with the pintle 152 secured to the first
half section 136 engaging a corresponding hole (not shown) on the
inner wall of the rectangular portion 156 of the second half
section 138. Similarly, the pintle 152 integral with or
otherwi~e secured to the second half section 138 engages the
corresponding pintle hole 153 on the inner wall of the
rectangular portion 140 of the first half section 136. Each of
the lo¢k tabs 168 is pivotally connected to the first and second
half sections 136, 138 by receiving a corresponding one of the
pintles 152 through the bore 172 in the projecting arm 170 of the
corresponding lock tab 168. The relative dimensions of the bores
172 and the pintles 152 is such that each of the lock tabs 168
can freely pivot about the longitudinal axis of the corresponding
pintle 152. ~he particular functions of the lock tabs 168 will
be described in subsequent paragraphs herein. It should be noted
that the exemplary pivot block assembly 132 shown in Figure 5
includes a pintle 152 and a pintle hole 153 associated with each
of the first and second half sections 136, 138. However,
different configurations could be employed. For example, both
pintles 152 could be positioned on the same half section 136 or
138, with the pintle holes 153 positioned on the other half
section 138 or 136, respectively. Still further, however, with
the pintle and pintle hole arrangement shown in Figure 5, each of
-27- ~32~2~3
the half sections 136, 138 is identical to the other half
section. Accordingly,l for purposes of reducing the relative
costs of manufacture, a single mold could be employed to -'
manufacture both half sections 136, 138.
Th"e pivot block assembly 132 is shown as primarily assembled
in Figures 2 and 9. With this assembly, the recess 154 of the
first half ~ection 136 and the recess 167 of the second half
section 138 form a slot 186 through which the series of
conductors 120 extend after complete assembly of the pivot power
~eed connector 100.
As ~urther shown primarily in Figures 2 and 9, the pivotable
power feed connector 100 also includes a contact bloc~ 200.
Referring specifically to Figures 2 and 9, the contact block 200
includes a rectangular slab 202 constructed of a highly
insulative material. The rectangular slab 202 includes an upper
w r~ace 204, ~ide walls 206 ~only one o~ which is shown in Figure
2) and oppo~ing end walls 208 ~only one o~ the end walls 208
~hown in Figure 2). In addition, as shown in Figure 9, the slab
202 al~o includes a bottom sur~ace 209. The conductors 120 are
received within a rectangular,boss 210 integral with or otherwise
mounted to the upper sur~ace 204 of the contact block 200. When
the contact block 200 is appropriately interconnected with the
pivot bloc~ assembly 132, the rectangular boss 210 extends
upwardly into the cavity 186 o~ the pivot assembly 132.
The rectangular boss 210 can comprise a terminal connector
block havlng a series of terminal connectors ~not shown)
conductively connected to individual ones o~ a series o~ metallic
prong terminal~ 212 extending downwardly from the bottom sur~ace
209 o~ the contact block 200. Within the contact block 200, the
metallic prong terminals 212 are selectively connected to various
ones of the conductors 120. The actual connection of the series
of conductors 120 to the prong terminals 212 can be made by any
of various connection arrangements, including the molding of the
conductors 120 into the rectangular boss 210 mounted on the upper
-28- ~32~2~3
surface 204 of the contact block 200.
The contact block 200 further includes a series of holes 214
located at individual corners of the rectangular slab 202 and --
extending vertically therethrough. As shown in Figure 7, each of
the holes 214 can be counter-bored from the bottom surface 209 of
the rectangular slab 202 of contact block 200. To interconnect
the pivot block assembly 132 with the contact block 200, screws
216 can be employed. The counter-bored holes 214 in the contact
block 200 may be partially threaded or, alternatively, may be
unthreaded, with the screws 216 slidably fitting through the
counter-bored holes 214. The bores 166 and lS0 in the pivot
block assembly 132 are aligned with the holes 214 when the pivot
block assembly 132 is mounted on the upper surface 204 of the
contact block 200. With this mounting, the rectangular boss 210
is received within the cavity 186 o~ the pivot block assembly
132. For purposes described in subsequent paragraphs herein, the
holes 214 are pre~erably counter-bored so as to allow sufficient
room ~or a series o~ coil springs 218, with each o~ the coil
springs 218 having one end engaging the head of a corresponding
one o~ the screws 216.
I~ the screws 216 are employed to connect the contact block
200 with the pivot block assembly 132, the bores 166 and 150 in
the pivot block assembly 132 are pre~erably threaded. Also, with
such a configuration, it would be unnecessary ~or the bores 166
and 150 to extend completely through block as~embly 132. That
is, it would be su~iclent ~or the bores 166 and 150 to extend
upward through the lower sur~ace of block assembly 132 a
~u~ficient dlstance so as to securely receive the screws 216.
Alternatively, however, and as described in subsequent paragraphs
herein, an additional interconnection arrangement can be employed
whereby screws 260 (described in subsequent paragraphs herein)
may extend completely through the block assembly 132. In such
event, the bores 166 and 150 would extend through block assembly
132 and may be threaded or unthreaded.
-29- 132~2~3
As shown in Figures 2 and 6, the contact block 200 also
includes a set of recesses 220 located on the side walls 206 of
the rectangular slab 202. Figure 2 shows two of the recesses 220
located in one of the side walls 206. Although not specifically
shown in the drawings, additional recesses 220 are located in the
opposing side wall 206, with the additional recesses 220 slightly
offset from the recesses 220 specifically shown in Figure 2. For
purposes of engaging additional elements of the power feed
connector 100 as described in subsequent paragraphs herein, a
coil spring 222 and associated latch plug 224 are preferably
received within a corresponding one of each of the recesses 220.
Each of the latch plugs 224 can have a structural
configuration substantially corresponding to that shown in
Figures 6 and 5A, whereby the end of the latch plug 224
projecting outwardly from the recess 220 comprises a stepped
configuration. The stepped configuration forms outer ledges 223,
lntermediate ledges 225 and a terminating end 272 in each latch
plug 224. With each o~ the coil springs 222 and latch plugs 224
havlng the con~iguration shown in Figures 2 and 6, the coil
springs 222 will act to exert ~orces so as to tend to push the
latch plugs 224 outwardly in a lateral direction away from the
side walls 206.
In addition to the foregoing, the rectangular slab 202 of
the contact block 200 also includes a wedge-shaped ledge 226
pro~ecting outwardly from each o~ the end walls 208. Only one of
the wedge-shaped ledge~ 226 i5 shown in Flgure 2. The particular
~unctions o~ the coil springs 222, latch plugs 224 and wedge-
shaped ledges 226 will become apparent from subsequent
description o~ the interconnection of various elements of the
plvotable power feed connector 100 in subsequent paragraphs
herein.
The pivotable power feed connector 100, as further shown
primarily in Figure 2, also includes a protective connector block
cover 228. The block cover 228 includes a flat rectangular
-30- 132~2~
portion 230 with a pair of upwardlyextending Opposing side
portions 232, and a pair of upwardly-extending parallel opposing
end portions 234. The flat rectangular portion 230 includes a
series of prong terminal slots 236 located in the rectangular
portio~ 230 and in alignmemt with the prong terminals 212 of the
contact block 200 when the cover 228 is secured to the block 200
as subsequently described herein. When the entirety of the
pivotable power feed connector 100 is assembled and mounted into
the receptacle 102 of the modular panel 104, the prong terminals
212 will extend through the prong terminal slots 236.
As shown in Pigures 2 and 7, the upper surface of the flat
rectangular portion 230 includes a series of four rounded bosses
238 positioned adjacent each of the four corners of the
rectangular portion 230. Only one of the bosses 238 is shown in
each of Figures 2 and 7. The bosses 238 are positioned so as to
coincide with the counter-bored holes 214 when the protective
cover 228 is secured to the contact block 200. In this manner,
the bos~es 238 provlde a coupling support ~or the springs 218.
The protective cover 228 further includes a vertically
di~posed slot 240 centrally located in each of the opposing end
portions 234 and opening upwardly therefrom as shown in Figure 2.
In addition, as shown primarily in Figures 2, 3 and 4, the cover
228 also includes a series o~ T-slots located ln the opposing
~ide portlons 232. Each of the T-slots 242 is positioned so as
to coincide with the po~ltion o~ a corresponding one o~ the
reces~es 220 in the contact block 200 when the protective cover
228 is secured to the block 200. Further, each of the T-slots
242 includes an upper first slot 244 and a lower elongated second
slot 246 perpendicularly extending from the central portion of
the first slot 244.
Finally, as shown in Figure 2 and several of the other
drawings, the power feed connector 100 preferably includes a
power feéd cover 248. The cover 248 includes two parallel
opposing side portions 250, an interConnecting end portion 252
-31- ~32Q2g3
and an upper surface 254. As shown primarilY in Figures 2, 3 and
4, the power feed cover 248 is configured so that the upper
surface 254 is arcuate in shape and extends from the ~-
interconnecting end portion 252 downwardly toward the lower edges
of the side portions 250. In this manner, the power feed cover
248 has somewhat of a wedge-shaped cross-sectional configuration.
Located in the interconnecting end portion 252 is a
downwardly opening channel 256 having a curved upper portion
sized so as to appropriately receive the conduit or cable 118
when the power feed connector 100 is assembled. In addition, a
pair of holes 258 are located in the upper surface 254 of the
cover 248. The holes 258 are preferably counter-bored from the
top and adapted to receive corresponding ones of a pair of
connecting screws 260. The holes 258 are appropriately
positioned so as to be aligned with the bores 124 in the main
body portion 122 of the pivotal connector 116 when the power feed
conne¢tor 100 i8 assembled.
The assembly of the various elements of the power feed
connector 100, and the interconnection of the power feed
connector 100 with the connector receptacle 102 will now be
de w ribed. Referring to Figure 5, the pivot block assembly 132
can be assembled by coupling together the first half section 136
with the second half section 138 through the engagement of the
pintles 152 on the first half section 136 with corresponding
holes (not shown) on the second half section 138. It should be
emphasized that the half sections are coupled together with the
contact block boss 210 (Flgure 2) received within the cavity 186,
so that the conductors 120 appropriately extend through assembly
132. Prior to engagement of the first and second half sections
136, 138, the lock tabs 168 will also be assembled into the pivot
block assembly 132 by engaging the pintles 152 through the bores
172 of the projecting arms 170 of each lock tab 168.
The contact block 200 can be secured to the pivot block
assembly 132 by means of the screws 216 being received upwardly
132~2~3
-32-
through the holes 214 of contact block 200 and then threadably
engaging corresponding holes in the pivot block assembly 132.
During initial assembly, the lock tabs 168 will be in an '
"unlocked" position primarily as shown in Figure 3. As
previously described, with the contact block 200 connected to the
pivot block assembly 132, the rectangular boss 210 on the upper
surface 204 of the contact block 200 will be received within the
cavity 186 of the pivot block assembly 132.
The pivotal connector 116, with the interconnected flexible
conduit or cable 118, can then be coupled to the pivot block
assembly 132 by means of engaging the trunnions 130 into the
trunnion slots 144 through the flared openings 146. With this
type of interconnection through the trunnions 130 and trunnion
slots 144, it should be noted that the flexible conduit or cable
118 and interconnected pivotal connector 116 can be pivoted about
the trunnions 130 and positioned in any of various directions of
the ~iexible conduit or cable 118 relative to the pivot block
as~embly 132, by means o~ pivotal rotation o~ the pivotal
connector 116 relative to the block assembly 132. In use,
however, the pivotal connector 116 will preferably be coupled to
the plvot block assembly 132 so that the flexible conduit or
cable 118 extends directly toward one end oP the block assembly
132, or the opposing end of the block assembly 132. In either of
these configurations, one side oP the main body portion 122 will
be positioned ~ubstantially ~lush against the rectangular
portion~ 140, 156 and rectangular ledges 148, 164 o~ the pivot
block a~sembly 132.
A~ter the foregoing assembly o~ the pivotal connector 116,
pivot block assembly 132 and contact block 200 has been
completed, the protective connector block cover 228 can be
assembled to the contact block 200. Specifically, the protective
cover 228 can be positioned adjacent the contact block 200 as
shown in Figure 2, and extended toward the underside portion o~
the contact bloc~ 200. First, however, the springs 218 should be
13202~3
-33-
appropriately positioned within the counterbored holes 214 of the
contact block 200. In addition, each of the coil springs 222 and
corresponding ones of the latch plugs 224, with their beveled -~
ends facing downwardly (Figure 6A) toward the flat rectangular
S portio~ 230, should be appropriately positioned within
corresponding recesses 220 in the side walls 206 of the contact
block 200.
As the protective connector block cover 228 is moved toward
the contact block 200, the coil springs 218, positioned within
the counter-bored holes 214, are received on the rounded bosses
238 located on the rectangular portion 230 of the cover 228. As
the cover 228 is further moved toward the contact block 200, the
side walls 206 and end walls 208 of contact block 200 are
received within the interior area of the protective cover 228
~ormed by the opposing side portions 232 and opposing end
portions 234. In addition, the wedgeshaped ledges 226, located
on the end walls 208 of the contact block 200, are slidably
received wlthin the vertically disposed slots 240 located in the
opposing end portions 234 of the cover 228.
As the protective cover 228 is further moved toward the
contact block 200, the interior walls of the opposing side
portions 232 will contact the beveled ends 272 of latch plugs
224. When contact is made, the latch plugs 224 and associated
coll ~prings 222 will be compressed into the recesses 220 located
in the side walls 206 of contact block 200. Compression of the
latch plugs 224 and coil 6prings 222 will continue until the
upper ~irst slots 244 of the T-slots 242 in the opposing side
portions 232 are aligned with the latch plugs 224 and recesses
220. Upon such alignment, the latch plugs 224, reacting to
outwardly directed forces exerted by the coil springs 222, will
"snap" into the corresponding ones of the upper first slots 244
of the T-slots 242. The latch plugs 224 will move outwardly from
the recesses 220 until the latch plug ledges 223 abut the
interior walls of the cover 228 adjacent the upper first slots
132~2~3
-34-
244. Accordingly, the intermediate latch plug ledges 225 will
extend outwardly through the upper slots 244.
In this eonfiguration~ the protective cover 228 is secured ^-~
to the eontaet block 200, but in such a manner that it is located
in an "extended" position, whereby the metallic prong terminals
212 are within the interior of the cover 228, and thus cannot
accidentally contact tools or an assembler/user. The cover 228
is prevented from further ~ovement either toward or away from the
eontaet bloek 200 by the extension of the lateh plugs 224
partially through the upper slots 244 of T-slots 242. It should
be noted that the width of each latch plug 224 along the
intermediate ledges 225 is greater than the width of the lower
seeond slots 246 of eaeh T-slot 242, thus preventing movement of
eover 228 toward eontaet block 200. It should also be noted that
when the proteetive eover 228 and eontact block 200 are in the
relative ¢onfiguratlons as described above, the coil springs 218,
mounted within the eounter-bored holes 214 of the eontact bloek
200 and reeelved on the rounded bosse~ 238 o~ the eover 228, act
~o a~ to exert foree~ 80 as to assist ln maintaining the eover
228 in an extended position, thereby eompletely shielding the
metallie prong terminals 212.
In aeeordanee with one aspect of the invention, the lateh
pluqs 224 eannot move through the lower second slots 246 of the
~-slots 242 without ~irst being pushed inwardly toward the
2S reees~es 220. The lateh plugs 224 and T-slots 242 also eomprise
a design sueh that the proteetive eover 228 eannot be retraeted
toward the eontaet bloek 200 without "~imultaneously" engaging
all of the latch plugs 224 and pushing the same inward so that
the lateh plugs 224 ean slidably move through the lower second
slots 246 of the T-slots 242.
With the proteetive eover 228 assembled together with the
contact block 200, pivot block assembly 132 and pivotal connector
116 as described in the foregoing paragraphs, the assembled
portion o~ the power feed eonneetor 100 ean then be eleetrieally
13202~
-35-
interConnected with the connector receptacle 102. Referring
primarily to Figures i, 3 and 4, the connector receptacle 102 in
the modular panel 104 includes a series of terminal slots 114 as ~~
previously described. The terminal slots 114 are located on a
rear wall 262 of the connector receptacle 102. Also mounted to
the rear wall 262 are a pair of receptacle spring tabs 264 having
a structural configuration as primarily shown in Figures 3 and 4.
Speciically, each of the spring tabs 264 includes an elongated
portion 266 projecting outwardly from the rear wall 262. At the
distal end of each o~ the elongated portions 266 is a tab
retainer 268 having a structural con~iguration as also primarily
shown in Figures 3 and 4. Each o the spring tabs 264 is
conigured so as to have some resiliency and 1exibility for
purposes of slight movement as described in subsequent paragraphs
therein.
Referring again primarily to Figures 3 and 4, and with the
protective cover 228 coupled to the contact block 200 as
previously described, the assembled portions o the power feed
connector 100 can then be moved toward the connector receptacle
102 in the configuration as generally shown in Figures 1 and 3.
In this coniguration, the lock tabs 168 are preerably "raised"
to an upper position as shown in Figure 3, so as to allow the
assembled portion of the power feed connector 100 to engage the
connector receptacle 102.
Morc specifically, as the assembled portion o~ the power
feed connector 100 is moved into the connector receptacle 102,
the tab retainers 268 will be resiliently pushed outwardly toward
the sides o~ the connector receptacle 102 by the beveled wedge-
shaped ledges 226 of the contact block 200. Correspondingly, as
the protective cover 228 continues to move into engagement within
the connector receptacle 102, the latch plugs 224 will contact
the side walls 270 of the connector receptacle 102 (only one of
the side walls 270 being shown in Figure 1). Reerring to
Figures 3 and 6, the end surface 272 of each latch plug 224
13202~3
-36-
preferably is beveled in a configuration similar to the beveled-
shaped ledges 226 also shown in Figures 3 and 4. With this
beveled-shaped configuration, as the terminating ends 272 of the --.
latch plugs 224 contact the side walls 270 of receptacle 102, the
latch plugs 224 are pushed inwardly in a direction opposing the
force of the coil springs 222. As the latch plugs 224 are pushed
inwardly in this manner, the protective cover 228 is allowed to
retract toward the contact block 200, thus exposing the metallic
prong terminals 212. However, it should be emphasized that
exposure of the metallic prong terminals 212 does not occur until
the interior chamber of the receptacle 102 is substantially
enclosed by the position of the assembled portion of the power
feed connector 100. Accordingly, the metallic prong terminals
212 still cannot be accidentally exposed to human touch or
inadvertant contact with conductive tools or the like.
With the latch plugc 224 pushed inwardly and the protective
cover 228 being retracted toward the contact block 200, the
terminating ends 272 of the latch plugs 224 will move through the
lower ~econd slots 246 of the T-slots 242 toward the position
shown in Figure 4. Correspondingly, the metallic prong terminals
212 will be received within the terminal slots 114 of the
connector receptacle 102. In addition, as the protective cover
228 retracts toward the contact blcck 200, and the contact block
200 moves forwardly toward the interior o~ the connector
receptacle 102, the wedge-shaped ledges 226 on the contact block
200 will abut the tab retainers 268 of the receptacle spring tabs
264. Upon this abutting contact, the elongated portions 266 of
the spring tabs 264 will flex outwardly and allow the ledges 226
to move past the tab retainers 268. After the ledges 226 move
past the tab retainers 268, the elongated portions 266 of the
spring tabs 264 will return to their normal position, whereby the
tab retainers 268 will "snap over" the wedge-shaped ledges 226.
With this configuration, as specifically shown in Figure 4, the
assembled portion of the power feed connector 100, and in
-37- ~32~2~3
particular the pivot block assembly 132, Contact block 200 and
protective cover 228, are substantially ~locked" into
interconnection with the connector receptacle 102. That is, if ---
the assembled portion of the power feed cOnnector 100 were pulled
outwardly from the receptaCle 102, the tab retainers 268 would
preventably abut the upper surfaces of the wedge-shaped ledges
226, thereby preventing further movement.
After the assembled portion of the power feed connector 100
has been locked into the connector receptacle 102 as described in
the foregoing paragraphs, additional lockIng capacity can be
achieved by pivoting each of the lock tabs 168 downwardly so that
the finger portions 174 of the lock tabs 168 are located in
cavities 274 formed between end walls of the receptacle 102 and
the receptacle spring tabs 264. This additional locking capacity
provided by the lock tabs 168 prevents any substantial lateral
movement o~ the assembled portion of the power feed connector 100
relat~ve to the receptacle 102. In particular, this additional
lock~ng capaclty will substantially reduce the possibility of
shock resulting from partlal disengagement of the power feed
connector 100 ~rom the receptacle 102.
To disengage the power feed connector 100 from the connector
receptacle 102, a screw driver blade or similar wedge-shaped
device can be positioned between side walls of the connector
receptacle 102 and the slot 184 in each o~ the lock tabs 168.
The position o~ such placement is shown in Figure 4 as positions
276. Porces can then be exerted on the screw driver blade or
other similar device so as to wedge the locking tabs 168
outwardly and upwardly from the cavities 274. After the lock
tabs 168 have been removed from the cavities 274, the receptacle
spring tabs 264 can be flexed outwardly toward the end walls of
the receptacle 102 by inserting a screw driver blade or simiiar
device between the tab retainers 268 and the end walls 234 of the
cover 228. The assembled contact block 200 can then be pulled
outwardly. As the contact block 200 is moved outwardly, wedge-
-38- 132~2~3
shaped ledges 226 of contact block 200 will clear the tab
retainers 268 of receptacle 102 and the terminating ends 272 of
the latch plugs 224 will move in the lower second slots 246 of
the T-slots 242 until the latch plugs 224 engage the upper first
slots 244 of the T-slots 242. Upon such engagement, it should be
emphasized that the metallic prong terminals 212 on the contact
block 200 will again be shielded by the position of the
protective cover 228. Further, this shielding effect will occur
prior to the contact block 200 being moved away from the interior
of the receptacle 102 a sufficient distance so as to accidentally
expose an assembler or others to contact with the prong terminals
212.
A~ter the latch plugs 224 have been moved into engagement
with the upper first slots 244 of the T-slots 242, the contact
block 200 and protective cover 228 will move in unison outwardly
~rom the receptacle 102. It should be emphasized that the forces
exerted by the coll ~prings 218 positioned intermediate the
re¢tangular portion 230 o~ the protective cover 228 and the
bottom ~ur~ace o~ the contact block 200 will act so as to insure
that the protective cover 228 moves away from the contact block
200 during disengagement from the receptacle 102. It is the
~orces exerted by each of these springs 218 which ensure that the
terminating ends 272 o~ the latch plugs 224 will move from the
lower second slots 2~6 to the upper ~irst slots 244 of the T-
~lot~ 242, thus ~hielding the metallic prong terminals 212 within
the protective cover 228.
Returning again to the position o~ the assembled portions o~
the power ~eed connector 100 being appropriately secured to the
connector receptacle 102 so as to engage the metallic prong
terminals 212 within the terminal slots 114, the pivotal
connector 116 can then be appropriately positioned as desired.
As earlier described, this position can preferably be one where
the flexible conduit or cable 118 extends in one particular
direction relative to the end portions of the pivot block
-39_ 1320263
assembly 132, or can alternatively be positioned so that the
flexible conduit or cable 118 extends in an opposing direction-
When the pivotal connector 116 is positioned as desired, the --~
power feed cover 248 can be secured over the pivotal connector
116 and interconnected by means of the screws 260 extending
through the holes 258 and threadably engaging the bores 124 in
the pivotal connector 116. For purposes of ensuring proper
connection, it is possible for the power feed cover 248 to
include a "locater~ 278 as shown in Figure 1 and as positioned on
one side of the interior portion of the power feed cover 248.
This locater 278 can engage a slot, indentation or similar means
on the pivot block assembly 132 for purposes of ensuring that the
power feed cover 248 is positioned in a proper orientation.
In accordance with the invention, it should be emphasized
that to orient the flexible conduit or cable 118 and pivotable
connector 116 in a different orientation, the screws 260 can be
removed from the cover 248, the cover 248 can then be removed
from the po~ltion of covering the pivotal connector 116 and pivot
block assembly 132, and the conduit or cable 118 and pivotal
connector 116 can then be rotated relative to the pivot block
assembly 132 through an axis extending through the trunnions 130.
This rotation can be performed so as to orient the flexible
conduit or cable 118 in an opposing direation. To then cover the
pivotal connector 116 and pivot block assembly 132, the power
feed cover 248 need only be rotated 180~ about an axis extending
perpendicularly through a horizontal plane of the pivot block
assembly 132. The screws 260 can then be inserted through the
power ~eed cover 248 and into the bores 124 of the pivotal
connector 116.
With the pivotable power feed connector 100 in accordance
with the invention, another significant advantage can be achieved
with respect to installation of the power feed connector 100 into
the receptacle 102. Specifically, it is possible for the
original components of the power feed connector 100, includilg
132~2~3
-40-
the flexible conduit or cable 118, to be originally manufactured
in standard lengths. At the end of the conduit or cable 118
opposing the end connected to the pivotal connector 116, a '
conventional conduit fitting (not shown) can be connected to the
condui~ end. Unfortunately~ when installing the pivotable power
feed connector 100, it is often desirable to utilize lengths of
the conduit or cable 118 which do not conform to the standard
commercially manufactured lengths.
The power feed connector 100 in accordance with the
invention provides a means for facilitating the measuring and
cutting of the conduit or cable 118 to an appropriate length.
Specifically, prior to connecting the power feed cover 248 to the
pivotal connector 116, the pivotal connector 116 can be pivoted
about its axis extending through the trunnions 130 pivotably
mounted in the trunnion holes 144 so that the flexible conduit or
¢able 118 extende perpendicularly relative to the horizontal
plane of the central body eection 134 of the pivot block assembly
132. The pivotal connector 116 can then be removed from the
plvot block as6embly 13a by exerting a pulling force sufficient
eo ae to cauee the trunnions 130 to be removed from the trunnion
holee 144 through the flared openings 146. As specifically shown
in Figure 8, the pivotal connector 116 can then be pulled away
from the pivot block assembly 132 a sufficient distance 80 as to
extend the ~lexible conduit or cable 118 beyond the lengths of
the conductors 120. The conduit or cable 118 can then be readily
cut to a deelred length. After the conduit or cable 118 i8 cut
to the appropriate length, the pivotal connector 116 can then be
eaeily reconnected to the pivot block aesembly 132 by engaging
the trunnions 130 into the trunnion holes 144 through the flared
openings 146. The conduit fittings can then be reinstalled to
the terminating end of the length of the conduit cable 118 to be
utilized. Following this procedure, the power feed cover 248 can
be appropriately installed and connected to the pivotal connector
116.
132~2~
A number of the significant features of the power feed
connector 100 in accordance with the invention are apparent from
the foregoing description. In particular, the power feed -;
connector 100 in accordance with the invention provides a
substantial safety feature so as to prevent the assembler from
coming into contact with "live~ metallic prong terminals 212. In
addition, during both assembly and disassembly of the power feed
connector lOo from the connector receptacle 102, the metallic
prong terminals 212 are appropriately shielded so that the
assembler will not come into direct physical contact with live
prong terminals, and it is substantially impossible for the
assembler to accidentally contact the live prong terminals with
conductive tools.
In accordance with another aspect of the power feed
connector 100 in accordance with the invention, it should be
noted that the depth o~ the modular panel 102 can be of various
dimensions, without necessitating different sizes of the power
feed connector 100. That i5, the depth of the modular panel
receptacle can be varied to meet varying degrees o~ panel depth,
and the power ~eed connector 100 will still accommodate some
variations in depth.
Still further, it should also be noted that the screws 260
extending through the power ~eed cover 248 are o~ su~ficient
length so as to be received within the bores 124 o~ the pivotal
connector 116. If the screws 260 terminate within the pivotal
connector 116, the bores 124 are pre~erably threaded. In
addition, however, the screws 260 can be o~ a su~icient length
so as to extend completley through the pivotal connector bores
124 and threadably engage the bores 150 and 166 within pivot
block assembly 132. In this manner, a secure connection is
provided between the pivotal connector 116 and assembly 132.
Still further, an additional locking arrangement could be
provided by including additional holes in the protective cover
228 in alignment with the counter-bored holes 258 of the power
1~2~2~
-42-
feed cover 248. Also, holes could be threadablY bored into the
rear wall 262 of the connector receptacle 102, and the screws 260
could be of a sufficient length so as to extend completely
through aligned holes in the pivotal connector 116, pivot block
assembly 132, contact block 200 and protective cover 228 so as to
engage holes in the rear wall 262 of the connector receptacle
102. Such an arrangement provides an even more secure locking
mechanism for the entirety of the elements of the power feed
connector 100.
In addition to the previously described features of the
power ~eed connector 100, it is also possible to include elements
associated with the protective cover 228 or contact block 200 in
association with the connector receptacle 102, so as to ensure
that the pivotable power feed connector 100 is appropriately
oriented when engaged with the connector receptacle 102. For
example, a key slot 280 in the form of a slot, channel or similar
lndentatlon or recess can extend along one of the side walls 232
or end walls 234 of the protective cover 228. For example, such
a slot 280 ls shown in one end walls 234 of cover 228 in Figures
1 and 2. A corresponding key 282 in the form of a lip, tab or
other protru~ion can be provided within a side or end wall of the
connector receptacle 102. For example, such a key 282 is shown
in Figure 1. This connector receptacle key 282 would be
positioned so as to be appropriately aligned with the slot 280 on
the protective cover 228 so that the key 282 would be received
within the slot 280 when the power feed connector 100 was
appropriately aligned with the connector receptacle 102. In the
event o~ misalignment, the key 282 and key slot 280 on the
protective cover 228 would prevent the protective cover 228 from
being inserted within the interior of the connector receptacle
102. With the foregoing functional advantage in mind, it is
apparent that the key/slot configuration could be reversed, with
the key located on the cover 228, and the key slot located on the
receptacle 102.
13202~
-43-
Figures 10, 11 and 12 illustrate a slightly modified version
of a power feed connector arrangement in accordance with the
invention, with the modified version including modifications for -~
"locking" the power feed connector 100 to the connector
receptacle 102. As described with respect to Figures l, 3 and 4,
the connector receptacle 102 and the modular panel 104 includes a
series of terminal slots 114. The slots 114 are located on a
rear wall 262 of the connector receptacle 102. Also mounted to
the rear wall 262 are a pair of receptacle spring tabs 264 having
a structural configuration primarily shown in Figures 3 and 4.
Specifically, the spring tabs 264 include an elongated portion
266 projecting outwardly from the rear wall 262. At the distal
end o~ each of the elongated portions 266 is a tab retainer 268
having a structural configuration as also primarily shown in
Figures 3 and 4. Each of the spring tabs 264 is configured so as
to have ~ome resiliency and flexibility for purposes of slight
movement as previously described hereln.
Wlth the protective cover 228 coupled to the contact block
200 as previously described, the assembled portions of the
connector 100 can then be moved toward the connector receptacle
102 in the configuration as generally shown in Figures 1 and 3.
The lock tabs 168 are preferablly "raised" to an upper position
as shown in Figure 3, so as to allow the assembled portion of the
connector 100 to engage the connector receptacle 102.
As the a~embled portion oP the connector 100 is moved into
the receptacle 102, the retainers 268 are resiliently pushed
outwardly toward the sides of the connector receptacle 102 by the
beveled wedge-shaped ledges 226 of the contact block 200. Upon
this abutting contact, the elongated portions 266 of tabs 264
flex outwardly and allow the ledges 226 to move past the tab
retainers 268. ~fter the ledges 226 move past the tab retainers
268, the elongated portions 266 of the tabs 264 return to their
normal position, whereby the retainers 268 will "snap over" the
ledges 226. With this configuration, as shown in Figure 4, the
~32~3
-44-
assembled portion of the power feed connector loo, and in
particular the pivot block assembly 132, contact block 200 and
cover 228 are substantially ~locked~ into interconnection with .-.:
the receptacle 102. That is, the retainers 268 preventably abut
the upper surfaces of the ledges 226, thereby preventing any
further movement.
In the arrangement illustrated in Figures 10, 11 and 12, the
pivot block assembly 132 is provided with a pair of locking clips
290 (only one of which is shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12) on each
side wall o~ the assembly 132. Each of the locking clips 290
includes an elongated portion 292 and a distal tab 294.
Correspondingly, the power feed connector lOo also includes a
pair of lock elements 296, each of the lock elements 296 having
an elongated portion 298 and a distal tab portion 300. Further,
lS on each side of the connector receptacle 102 is a "hook" portion
302. Each of the locking clips 290 is located so as to be
extended through a slot 304 associated with the contact block
200. A~ illu~trated primarily in Figure~ 11 and 12, each of the
lock elements 296 includes a small "bump" 306. Each o~ the block
elements 296 extends through a slot 308 formed in the pivot block
a~embly 132, and further through the slot 304 of the contact
block 200.
When each o~ the locking clips 290 is depressed, as
illustrated in Figure 11, the power feed connector 100 can be
2S removed from its extended position into the connector receptacle
102. However, if the lock elements 2g6 are extended through the
~lots 304 and 306, and primarily fully extended as illustrated in
Figure 12, the locking clip8 290 are prevented ~rom being
depressed inwardly. With the locking clips 290 belng prevented
from being depressed inwardly, the distal tab 294 of each of the
locking clips 290 is prevented from being moved past the hook
portions 302 of the connector receptacle 102. In this manner,
the powe~ feed connector 100 is prevented from being removed from
the connector receptacle 102.
r
132~263
-45-
However, if the lock elements 296 are withdrawn, the locking
clips 290 can be depressed (as illustrated in Figure 11) and the
power feed connector 100 removed from the connector receptacle -;
102- The "bumps" 306 are utilized to prevent the lock elements
296 from being removed from the power feed connector 100
assembly. Further, each of the locking clips 290 includes a
notch 310 which prevents the lock elements 296 from extending
inwardly, if the locking clips 290 are not fully ~seated" within
the hook portions 302.
It should be emphasized that the arrangement illustrated in
Figures 10, 11 and 12 is merely a modified version of a locking
arrangement for the power feed connector 100 in accordance with
the invention. It should also be emphasized that elements
simllar in structure and function to the elements illustrated in
lS Figures 1-9 utilize the same numerical references within the
Figures 10, 11 and 12. Further, it should be noted that the
lower surface of the pivot block assembly 132 will abut the top
of the first lock element 296 when the lock element 296 is
positioned within the assembly. The second lock element 296 (not
shown in Figur~ 10) can be seated on a pin 312 mounted underneath
the power feed cover 248.
As primarily illustrated in Figure 2, and previously
described herein, the pivotal connector 116 includes a pair of
trunnions 130. Correspondingly, trunnion slots 160 are also
provided withln the pivot block assembly 132. In a slightly
modified version as shown in an extremely simpllfied ~orm in
Figure 13, the trunnion assembly can be reversed. That is, as
illustrated in Figures 10 and 13, the pivot block assembly 132
can include a pair of trunnion slots 314 adapted to receive
trunnions 316 associated with the pivotal connector 116. Figure
13 illustrates only primary elements and partial configurations
of the pivotal connector 116 and the pivot block assembly 132.
This reversal of the trunnion design, relative to the design
illustrated in Figure 2, appears to provide some improvement of
-46- 132Q2~3
performance. More specifically, it has been found that with the
reverse trunnion design, relative to the design illustrated in
Figure 2, the trunnions 316 do not appear to have a tendency to -;~
"snap off" the trunnion pivots 314 during assembly.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent art
that other embodiments of pivotable power feed connectors in
accordance with the invention can be designed. For example,
other specific locking arrangements for providing
interconnections between the contact block 200, protective cover
10 228 and connector receptacle 102 can be provided without
departing from the broader principles of the invention. That is,
the principles of a pivotable power feed connector in accordance
with the invention are not limited to the specific embodiment
described herein. It will be apparent to those skilled in the
art that modifications and other variations of the above-
described illustrative embodiment of the invention may be
e~fective without departing Prom the spirit and scope o~ the
novel concepts of the invention.
