CA1182513A - Modular wiring unit - Google Patents
Modular wiring unitInfo
- Publication number
- CA1182513A CA1182513A CA000403076A CA403076A CA1182513A CA 1182513 A CA1182513 A CA 1182513A CA 000403076 A CA000403076 A CA 000403076A CA 403076 A CA403076 A CA 403076A CA 1182513 A CA1182513 A CA 1182513A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- housing
- connection
- plug
- cable
- electrical
- 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
- H02B—BOARDS, SUBSTATIONS OR SWITCHING ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE SUPPLY OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02B1/00—Frameworks, boards, panels, desks, casings; Details of substations or switching arrangements
- H02B1/20—Bus-bar or other wiring layouts, e.g. in cubicles, in switchyards
- H02B1/202—Cable lay-outs
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R25/00—Coupling parts adapted for simultaneous co-operation with two or more identical counterparts, e.g. for distributing energy to two or more circuits
- H01R25/16—Rails or bus-bars provided with a plurality of discrete connecting locations for counterparts
- H01R25/161—Details
- H01R25/162—Electrical connections between or with rails or bus-bars
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
An electrical wiring module comprising an elongated housing at least partially enclosing and defining a hollow interior, mounting flange means at each end of said housing, the flange means being recessed inwardly into the housing, and defining a connection space at the adjacent end of such housing, two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange, electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within the housing, a male connection plug at one end of the housing, being located in the connection space, a flexible electrical cable connecting the male connection plug with the electrical wiring, and extending through an opening in the adjacent mounting flange, the flexible cable being of such length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from the connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug in an adjacent housing, the cable being retractable through the opening in the mounting flange for storage, and connection means on the wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and receptacle mounting means formed in the housing, by which a receptacle may be installed in the housing, and connected to the connection means.
An electrical wiring module comprising an elongated housing at least partially enclosing and defining a hollow interior, mounting flange means at each end of said housing, the flange means being recessed inwardly into the housing, and defining a connection space at the adjacent end of such housing, two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange, electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within the housing, a male connection plug at one end of the housing, being located in the connection space, a flexible electrical cable connecting the male connection plug with the electrical wiring, and extending through an opening in the adjacent mounting flange, the flexible cable being of such length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from the connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug in an adjacent housing, the cable being retractable through the opening in the mounting flange for storage, and connection means on the wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and receptacle mounting means formed in the housing, by which a receptacle may be installed in the housing, and connected to the connection means.
Description
Z5~3 The invention xelates to a modular electric wirlng system, and is of particular interest for use in association with ar-ticles of ofEice furni-ture, such as room dividers, partitions, screens and the like~
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Numerous examples of modular wiring sys-tems have been proposed, some for use on their own, for distributing electrical services throughout a building space, and others for use iII association with building components or articles of furniture. In all cases, the objective is generally the same - that is to say, a wiring harness is provided with plug-in connectors at each end which do not. require the services o~ an electrician, and which may be of a predetermined unit length, or may be in various different unit lengths. Usually such systems will also employ some means of accessing the power,such as receptacles and the like.
It is a common feature in such systems that one end is provided with a male plug, for connection wi-th a source of power, and the other end is provided with a female plug or receptacle, for connection with another modular harness.
Clearly, a male connector cannot be used at both ends, since there would be a possibility of shock hazard or the like.
This arrangement somewhat limits the flexibility of such a modular wiring harness since generally speaking, it can only be connected one way around.
It is clearly desirable -to provide a system in which modules can be connected to o-ther modules at both ends. In this way, distributlon of circui-ts can be achieved throughout a fairly substantial area, with electrical power being brought safely to the point a-t which it is required, without the use of-lengthy extension cords. The wiring can then be arranged along a variety of layouts, wi-thou-t being restricted by the limitations of earlier systems.
Where such modular wiring systems are to be used in association with space dividers, such as office partitions for example, they can provide substantial benefits to the owners of the space. Power and other services can be distri-buted along the room dividers or partitions, and each partition or a predetermined number of such partitions can thus provide outlets for power for office machines. Other services can also be readily incorporated, such as telephones.
It is, however, a common feature of such room dividers or partitions that they are not merely arranged in parallel-spaced apart lines, but are arranged in a varie-ty of formations to provide either rectangular working spaces, or even working spaces of different shapes, depending upon the functions being carried out within each individual space. Such partitions may thus be arranged at right angles to one another or at different angles, and four such partitions may be joined together at a corner, or in some cases even more. Ideally, a wiring system which is used together with such partitions should permit full ~lexibility in the wiring of the various partitions so -that even when they are joined in multiples to form corners, al~ of the panels at such a corner can, if desired, be wired.
In addition to these various advantages, it is also desirable that the modular wiring system shall be of such a design that it is readily compatible with the design of the partition, in the case where it i9 used with a partition, so that it may be offered as an extra feature which can be incorporated in the panels. In this way a manufacturer can avoid the necessity of manufacturing a wide variety of different models/ depending upon whether a customer orders them with or without wiring.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
With a view to providing all of these advantages, the invention comprises an electrical wiring module comprising an elongated housing at least partially enclosing a space, and defining a hollow interior, mounting flange means at each end of said housing, said flange means being recessed i.nwardly into said housing, and defining a connection space between each of said fl.anges and the adjacent end of said housing, two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange, electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within said housing, a male connection plug at one end of said housing, being located in said connection space, a flexible electrical cable connecting said male connection plug with said electrical wiring, and extending through an opening in the adjacent said mounting flange, said cable being of such length that the male connec-tion plug may be withdrawn from said connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connec-t with a female plug in an adjacent said housing, said cable being retractable through said opening in said mounting flange for storage, and, connection means on said wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and, receptacle mounting means formed in said housing, whereby at least one receptacle may be installed in said housing, and connected to said connection means.
The inven-tion further comprises the provision, within said housing, of partition means dividing the interior of the housing into two longitudinal passageways wherein the mounting flange means is located in regis-tration with the opposite ends of one of such passageways, the other of such passageways being clear, to provide a through passageway for reception of service wiring other than electrical power.
The invention further comprises that such through passageway for service power shall be located along the lower side of said housing, and shall define a cent.ral median opening along the length of such service passageway, and side retaining flanges along either side o:E said median opening, whereby service wiring may simply be inserted through said opening,and supported on one of said flanges.
The invention further cbmprises adaptor mounting means, for mounting such housings on partit.ion panels, and adjustable means for adjustably fastening support members for such panels thereto, whereby the height of said panels may be adjusted and corrected.
The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity inthe claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.
IN THE DRAWINGS:
Figure 1 is a perspective e~ploded view of a typical panel, with the wiring unit attached;
Figure 2 is a perspective view cut away -to show the wiring unit separated from the panel;
Figure 3 is a section along the line 3-3 of Figure 2;
Figure ~ is a section along the line 4-4 of Figure 2;
Figure 5 is a section along line 5-5;
Figure 6 is a section along line ~-6;
Figure 7 is a section along line 7-7;
Figure 8 is a cut away perspective from position 8-8 of Figure 2, and, Figure 9 is a section along line 9-9.
_ESCRI~TION OF A SPECIFIC E~IBODIMENT
As shown in Figure 1, a typical office or space dividing partition 10 COIISiStS oE a rectangular panel 12, supported on pedestals or feet 1~. Such panels 12 may be of a wide variety of different types of construction, and may be of different si2es, and in some cases may be either straight or curved. In some cases such partitions are free standing. In other cases they are provided with junction means indicated generally as 16 down either end, whereby panels may be joined together in a variety of differen-t ways and arrangements, either to form an elongated straight wall of panels, or to form a variety of different space dividing arrangement.
A modular wiring unit according to the invention is shown generally as 20 and will be seen to be located along the lower edge of the panel 12. As explained above, the modular wiring unit 20 is shown used in association with such a partition merely by way of example. The location on the partition is merely a matter of convenience. It may be located at various different locations on the partition.
Alternatively, it may be associated with other items of office furniture or space dividing components. Alterna-tively S~3 it may conceivably be used entirely separately, and could be incorporated in a building ceiling for example, in a variety of differen-t ways, or might be used arranged around the outer walls of a space, so as to provide flexibility in wiring for a variety of different purposes.
For example it might be desirable -to use such a modular wiring system on its own in the erection of display booths at trade shows for example, or any o-ther location where a wiring system is required which is readily installed wi-thout the use of skilled tradesmen, and which may readily be re-arranged from time to time as desired.
As shown in more detail in Figures 2, 3 and 4, -the modular wiring unit will be seen to comprise an elongated generally rectangular housing 22, having side walls 22a, a top wall 22b, and in -turned flanges 22c along the lower edges of side walls 22a, defining an open gap therebetween.
An elongated bottom closure strip 24 is formed of extruded thermoplastics material, in a typical case, for closiny off the open bottom of housing 22. Closure 24 has a top web 24a, and side webs 24b, of generally inverted U-shape in section. Generally L-shaped support flanges 26 are formed along the lower edges of side webs 24b, forming two spaced apart partial enclosures, and defining an open mouth 28 therebetween.
Fastening grooves 30 are formed in side webs 24b for fitting over flanges 22c of housing 22, and retain the closure 24 in position.
The interior of housing 22 is closed off adjacent either end by end mounting flanges 32. Flanges 32 are recessed inwardly from either end of the housing 22, and define connection ~ 6 spaces indicated generally as 34 for purposes to be described.
Flanges 32 are dimensioned so that they do not extend down into that portion of housing 22 occupied by bottom closure 24, so that bottom closure 24 defines a continuous through passage-way along the bottom of housing 22 without interrup-tion by flanges 32.
Each of flanges 32 is formed wi-th an angled plug mounting face 36 and a recessed portion 38 for reasons to be described below.
They are fastened in position in any sui-table manner such as by spot welding or the like.
Female electrical plugs 40 and 42 are moun-ted at opposite ends oE housing 22, in respective mounting flanges 32.
Such female plugs are in fact moun-ted in suitable openings formed in the angled portions 36 of flanges 32, so as to locate such plugs offset to one side of -the housing 22, and twisted at a slight angle so as to facilitate insertion of a male electrical plug, for connecting the circuits together.
Plugs 40 and 42 are connected by any suitable wiring harness indicated generally as 44, so as to complete the electrical connection through the housing 22.
Such wiring harness will be of any suitable arrange-ment necessary for the customers requirements.
In one preferred form of the invention, there will be four such wires in such harness, and the plugs will be of the type having separate pairs of contacts~ so that -two or more separate power circuits can be wired throughout.
A male connection plug 46 is movabl~ located in the connection space 34 at one end of housing 22, and is S~3 connected by means of a flexible electrical cable 48 to the harness 44. Cable 48 extends through a suitable opening 50 formed in -the recessed por-tion 38 of end mounting ~lange 32, at one end of housing 22.
In order to supply electrical power from -the housing 22, a further female plug 52 is connected to harness 44, typically midway along the length of housing 22, and is normally located and concealed within housing 22.
Access may be had to such plug 52 through an opening 54, which may be provided with a removeable closure 56, formed in the side wall 22a of housing 22. Two or more such openings may be used.
In most cases, it will be appreciated -that such openings 54 will be formed as a partial knockout, i.e. identa-tions formed in the sheet metal of side wall 22a, permitting a portion of the sheet metal to be removed, thereby leaving an opening 54 exposed.
An electrical receptacle 58, having a male plug 60 may then be connected to the female plug 52, and the recep~acle 58 may then be fastened in position by any suitable releaseable fastening means.
It will of course be appreciated that in cextain circumstances it may be desirable to remove such receptacle 58, and close off the opening 54. In this case, the opening 54 may be supplied with a removeable, for example plastic, closure member 56, or such closure members 56 may be if desired supplied as an accessory, to be used once the knock-out portion of side wall 22 has been removed.
The male plug 60, and female plug 52 will preferably have separate pairs of contacts, providing for connection of the two sides of the receptacle 58 with separate power .~18Z5~ 3 circuits, thereby greatly increasing -the useful power available from the system. In addition, this enables one power circuit to be allocated to a particulax type of use~ so as to avoid interference from other types of equipment, if this is required. In other circumstances, it enables equipment drawing relatively heavy current to be used without over-loading the system.
As explained above, the modular system according to the invention may be used either on its own, or may be associated with articles of furniture such as the typical office partitions as shown.
Where it is required to be used with such an article of furniture, then it may be fastened in position, for example along the lower edge of the panel 12, by means such as screws 62.
When fastened in that location, it is then necessary to provide leg extensions 64, extending downwardly from the panel 12, and provided with adjustable pedestals 66 for feet 14, typically having adjustable threaded attachmen-t means, extending downwardly through housing 22.
In this case, clearly suitable openings 68 are required in top wall 22b of housing 22, and suitable lower registering openings 70 will be required in closure member 24.
However, such provision does not alter the utility of the modular wiring unit according to the invention, and indeed in some respects complements and extends it.
Where the particular design of partition calls for the use of end extrusions indicated as 16, then such extrusions 16 can be formed with a suitable cut out or opening (not shown), registering with the connection spaces 34 of housing 22.
5~3 Other forms of end trim such as wood or metal strips may of course be used.
In opera-tion, the modular units 20 are -typically arranged end to end and may be connected toge-ther simply by withdrawing the male plug 46 from the recess 34 at one end of housing 22 and inserting it into the female connec-tion plug 40 or 42 on the next adjacent end of the next unit 20.
Flexible cable 48 is suitably shielded, and of sufficient length -to permit connection to such a plu~ 42 at a distance, as shown.
In this way it is possible to join the units 20 end to end more or less indefinitely in straight lines.
It is also possible to join more than two such units 20 to form corner junctions as in T-junctions or four-way X
junctions. In each case, because the uni-ts are provided with female plugs 40 and 42 at respective ends of housing 22, it is possible to make such connections at either end.
Power need only be supplied to any one of the modular units 20, to make all of such units 20 live.
Power can be accessed at any time simply by opening up openings 54~ and plugging the male plug 60 of a receptacle 58 into the female plug 52 contained within the housing 22. In this case it is not even necessary to shut off power while this is being done.
The details of the power supply to the units 20 has not been shown in detail. Typically, however, i-t will be a female plug, similar to -that shown as 40 or 42, into which the the male plug 46 of the modular unit which is connected.
S~3 It will also be seen that other electrical services such as wiring s for telephones, intercoms and the like can be run alon~ the through space defined by the bottom closure
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Numerous examples of modular wiring sys-tems have been proposed, some for use on their own, for distributing electrical services throughout a building space, and others for use iII association with building components or articles of furniture. In all cases, the objective is generally the same - that is to say, a wiring harness is provided with plug-in connectors at each end which do not. require the services o~ an electrician, and which may be of a predetermined unit length, or may be in various different unit lengths. Usually such systems will also employ some means of accessing the power,such as receptacles and the like.
It is a common feature in such systems that one end is provided with a male plug, for connection wi-th a source of power, and the other end is provided with a female plug or receptacle, for connection with another modular harness.
Clearly, a male connector cannot be used at both ends, since there would be a possibility of shock hazard or the like.
This arrangement somewhat limits the flexibility of such a modular wiring harness since generally speaking, it can only be connected one way around.
It is clearly desirable -to provide a system in which modules can be connected to o-ther modules at both ends. In this way, distributlon of circui-ts can be achieved throughout a fairly substantial area, with electrical power being brought safely to the point a-t which it is required, without the use of-lengthy extension cords. The wiring can then be arranged along a variety of layouts, wi-thou-t being restricted by the limitations of earlier systems.
Where such modular wiring systems are to be used in association with space dividers, such as office partitions for example, they can provide substantial benefits to the owners of the space. Power and other services can be distri-buted along the room dividers or partitions, and each partition or a predetermined number of such partitions can thus provide outlets for power for office machines. Other services can also be readily incorporated, such as telephones.
It is, however, a common feature of such room dividers or partitions that they are not merely arranged in parallel-spaced apart lines, but are arranged in a varie-ty of formations to provide either rectangular working spaces, or even working spaces of different shapes, depending upon the functions being carried out within each individual space. Such partitions may thus be arranged at right angles to one another or at different angles, and four such partitions may be joined together at a corner, or in some cases even more. Ideally, a wiring system which is used together with such partitions should permit full ~lexibility in the wiring of the various partitions so -that even when they are joined in multiples to form corners, al~ of the panels at such a corner can, if desired, be wired.
In addition to these various advantages, it is also desirable that the modular wiring system shall be of such a design that it is readily compatible with the design of the partition, in the case where it i9 used with a partition, so that it may be offered as an extra feature which can be incorporated in the panels. In this way a manufacturer can avoid the necessity of manufacturing a wide variety of different models/ depending upon whether a customer orders them with or without wiring.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
With a view to providing all of these advantages, the invention comprises an electrical wiring module comprising an elongated housing at least partially enclosing a space, and defining a hollow interior, mounting flange means at each end of said housing, said flange means being recessed i.nwardly into said housing, and defining a connection space between each of said fl.anges and the adjacent end of said housing, two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange, electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within said housing, a male connection plug at one end of said housing, being located in said connection space, a flexible electrical cable connecting said male connection plug with said electrical wiring, and extending through an opening in the adjacent said mounting flange, said cable being of such length that the male connec-tion plug may be withdrawn from said connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connec-t with a female plug in an adjacent said housing, said cable being retractable through said opening in said mounting flange for storage, and, connection means on said wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and, receptacle mounting means formed in said housing, whereby at least one receptacle may be installed in said housing, and connected to said connection means.
The inven-tion further comprises the provision, within said housing, of partition means dividing the interior of the housing into two longitudinal passageways wherein the mounting flange means is located in regis-tration with the opposite ends of one of such passageways, the other of such passageways being clear, to provide a through passageway for reception of service wiring other than electrical power.
The invention further comprises that such through passageway for service power shall be located along the lower side of said housing, and shall define a cent.ral median opening along the length of such service passageway, and side retaining flanges along either side o:E said median opening, whereby service wiring may simply be inserted through said opening,and supported on one of said flanges.
The invention further cbmprises adaptor mounting means, for mounting such housings on partit.ion panels, and adjustable means for adjustably fastening support members for such panels thereto, whereby the height of said panels may be adjusted and corrected.
The various features of novelty which characterize the invention are pointed out with particularity inthe claims annexed to and forming a part of this disclosure. For a better understanding of the invention, its operating advantages and specific objects attained by its use, reference should be made to the accompanying drawings and descriptive matter in which there are illustrated and described preferred embodiments of the invention.
IN THE DRAWINGS:
Figure 1 is a perspective e~ploded view of a typical panel, with the wiring unit attached;
Figure 2 is a perspective view cut away -to show the wiring unit separated from the panel;
Figure 3 is a section along the line 3-3 of Figure 2;
Figure ~ is a section along the line 4-4 of Figure 2;
Figure 5 is a section along line 5-5;
Figure 6 is a section along line ~-6;
Figure 7 is a section along line 7-7;
Figure 8 is a cut away perspective from position 8-8 of Figure 2, and, Figure 9 is a section along line 9-9.
_ESCRI~TION OF A SPECIFIC E~IBODIMENT
As shown in Figure 1, a typical office or space dividing partition 10 COIISiStS oE a rectangular panel 12, supported on pedestals or feet 1~. Such panels 12 may be of a wide variety of different types of construction, and may be of different si2es, and in some cases may be either straight or curved. In some cases such partitions are free standing. In other cases they are provided with junction means indicated generally as 16 down either end, whereby panels may be joined together in a variety of differen-t ways and arrangements, either to form an elongated straight wall of panels, or to form a variety of different space dividing arrangement.
A modular wiring unit according to the invention is shown generally as 20 and will be seen to be located along the lower edge of the panel 12. As explained above, the modular wiring unit 20 is shown used in association with such a partition merely by way of example. The location on the partition is merely a matter of convenience. It may be located at various different locations on the partition.
Alternatively, it may be associated with other items of office furniture or space dividing components. Alterna-tively S~3 it may conceivably be used entirely separately, and could be incorporated in a building ceiling for example, in a variety of differen-t ways, or might be used arranged around the outer walls of a space, so as to provide flexibility in wiring for a variety of different purposes.
For example it might be desirable -to use such a modular wiring system on its own in the erection of display booths at trade shows for example, or any o-ther location where a wiring system is required which is readily installed wi-thout the use of skilled tradesmen, and which may readily be re-arranged from time to time as desired.
As shown in more detail in Figures 2, 3 and 4, -the modular wiring unit will be seen to comprise an elongated generally rectangular housing 22, having side walls 22a, a top wall 22b, and in -turned flanges 22c along the lower edges of side walls 22a, defining an open gap therebetween.
An elongated bottom closure strip 24 is formed of extruded thermoplastics material, in a typical case, for closiny off the open bottom of housing 22. Closure 24 has a top web 24a, and side webs 24b, of generally inverted U-shape in section. Generally L-shaped support flanges 26 are formed along the lower edges of side webs 24b, forming two spaced apart partial enclosures, and defining an open mouth 28 therebetween.
Fastening grooves 30 are formed in side webs 24b for fitting over flanges 22c of housing 22, and retain the closure 24 in position.
The interior of housing 22 is closed off adjacent either end by end mounting flanges 32. Flanges 32 are recessed inwardly from either end of the housing 22, and define connection ~ 6 spaces indicated generally as 34 for purposes to be described.
Flanges 32 are dimensioned so that they do not extend down into that portion of housing 22 occupied by bottom closure 24, so that bottom closure 24 defines a continuous through passage-way along the bottom of housing 22 without interrup-tion by flanges 32.
Each of flanges 32 is formed wi-th an angled plug mounting face 36 and a recessed portion 38 for reasons to be described below.
They are fastened in position in any sui-table manner such as by spot welding or the like.
Female electrical plugs 40 and 42 are moun-ted at opposite ends oE housing 22, in respective mounting flanges 32.
Such female plugs are in fact moun-ted in suitable openings formed in the angled portions 36 of flanges 32, so as to locate such plugs offset to one side of -the housing 22, and twisted at a slight angle so as to facilitate insertion of a male electrical plug, for connecting the circuits together.
Plugs 40 and 42 are connected by any suitable wiring harness indicated generally as 44, so as to complete the electrical connection through the housing 22.
Such wiring harness will be of any suitable arrange-ment necessary for the customers requirements.
In one preferred form of the invention, there will be four such wires in such harness, and the plugs will be of the type having separate pairs of contacts~ so that -two or more separate power circuits can be wired throughout.
A male connection plug 46 is movabl~ located in the connection space 34 at one end of housing 22, and is S~3 connected by means of a flexible electrical cable 48 to the harness 44. Cable 48 extends through a suitable opening 50 formed in -the recessed por-tion 38 of end mounting ~lange 32, at one end of housing 22.
In order to supply electrical power from -the housing 22, a further female plug 52 is connected to harness 44, typically midway along the length of housing 22, and is normally located and concealed within housing 22.
Access may be had to such plug 52 through an opening 54, which may be provided with a removeable closure 56, formed in the side wall 22a of housing 22. Two or more such openings may be used.
In most cases, it will be appreciated -that such openings 54 will be formed as a partial knockout, i.e. identa-tions formed in the sheet metal of side wall 22a, permitting a portion of the sheet metal to be removed, thereby leaving an opening 54 exposed.
An electrical receptacle 58, having a male plug 60 may then be connected to the female plug 52, and the recep~acle 58 may then be fastened in position by any suitable releaseable fastening means.
It will of course be appreciated that in cextain circumstances it may be desirable to remove such receptacle 58, and close off the opening 54. In this case, the opening 54 may be supplied with a removeable, for example plastic, closure member 56, or such closure members 56 may be if desired supplied as an accessory, to be used once the knock-out portion of side wall 22 has been removed.
The male plug 60, and female plug 52 will preferably have separate pairs of contacts, providing for connection of the two sides of the receptacle 58 with separate power .~18Z5~ 3 circuits, thereby greatly increasing -the useful power available from the system. In addition, this enables one power circuit to be allocated to a particulax type of use~ so as to avoid interference from other types of equipment, if this is required. In other circumstances, it enables equipment drawing relatively heavy current to be used without over-loading the system.
As explained above, the modular system according to the invention may be used either on its own, or may be associated with articles of furniture such as the typical office partitions as shown.
Where it is required to be used with such an article of furniture, then it may be fastened in position, for example along the lower edge of the panel 12, by means such as screws 62.
When fastened in that location, it is then necessary to provide leg extensions 64, extending downwardly from the panel 12, and provided with adjustable pedestals 66 for feet 14, typically having adjustable threaded attachmen-t means, extending downwardly through housing 22.
In this case, clearly suitable openings 68 are required in top wall 22b of housing 22, and suitable lower registering openings 70 will be required in closure member 24.
However, such provision does not alter the utility of the modular wiring unit according to the invention, and indeed in some respects complements and extends it.
Where the particular design of partition calls for the use of end extrusions indicated as 16, then such extrusions 16 can be formed with a suitable cut out or opening (not shown), registering with the connection spaces 34 of housing 22.
5~3 Other forms of end trim such as wood or metal strips may of course be used.
In opera-tion, the modular units 20 are -typically arranged end to end and may be connected toge-ther simply by withdrawing the male plug 46 from the recess 34 at one end of housing 22 and inserting it into the female connec-tion plug 40 or 42 on the next adjacent end of the next unit 20.
Flexible cable 48 is suitably shielded, and of sufficient length -to permit connection to such a plu~ 42 at a distance, as shown.
In this way it is possible to join the units 20 end to end more or less indefinitely in straight lines.
It is also possible to join more than two such units 20 to form corner junctions as in T-junctions or four-way X
junctions. In each case, because the uni-ts are provided with female plugs 40 and 42 at respective ends of housing 22, it is possible to make such connections at either end.
Power need only be supplied to any one of the modular units 20, to make all of such units 20 live.
Power can be accessed at any time simply by opening up openings 54~ and plugging the male plug 60 of a receptacle 58 into the female plug 52 contained within the housing 22. In this case it is not even necessary to shut off power while this is being done.
The details of the power supply to the units 20 has not been shown in detail. Typically, however, i-t will be a female plug, similar to -that shown as 40 or 42, into which the the male plug 46 of the modular unit which is connected.
S~3 It will also be seen that other electrical services such as wiring s for telephones, intercoms and the like can be run alon~ the through space defined by the bottom closure
2~. Such service wiring can be simply introduced -through the open mouth 28, and supported on the support flanges 26.
Power connection can also be made at the centre where the plug which is attached to the duplex receptacle can be used to connect to a suitable male connection to input power.
Having described what is believed to be the best mode by which the invent.ion may be performed, it will be seen that the invention may be particularly defined as follows:
An electrical wiring module comprising an elongated housing at least partially enclosing a space, and defining a hollow interior, mounting flange means at each end of said housing, said flAnge means being recessed inwardly into said housing, and defining a connection space between each of said flanges and the adjacent end of said housing, two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange, electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within said housing, a flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring in said housing and extending therefrom into a said connection space, a male connection plug on the free end of said cable, said cable being of such length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from said connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug in an adjacent said module, said cable being retractable into said housing for storage, intermediate connection means on said wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and receptacle mounting means formed in said housing, whereby at least one receptacle may be installed in said housing, and connected to said connection means.
The foregoing is a description of a preferred embodiment of the invention which is given here by way of example only. The invention is not to be taken as limited to any of the specifie features as described, but comprehends all sueh variations thereof as eome within the scope of the appended elaims.
Power connection can also be made at the centre where the plug which is attached to the duplex receptacle can be used to connect to a suitable male connection to input power.
Having described what is believed to be the best mode by which the invent.ion may be performed, it will be seen that the invention may be particularly defined as follows:
An electrical wiring module comprising an elongated housing at least partially enclosing a space, and defining a hollow interior, mounting flange means at each end of said housing, said flAnge means being recessed inwardly into said housing, and defining a connection space between each of said flanges and the adjacent end of said housing, two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange, electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within said housing, a flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring in said housing and extending therefrom into a said connection space, a male connection plug on the free end of said cable, said cable being of such length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from said connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug in an adjacent said module, said cable being retractable into said housing for storage, intermediate connection means on said wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and receptacle mounting means formed in said housing, whereby at least one receptacle may be installed in said housing, and connected to said connection means.
The foregoing is a description of a preferred embodiment of the invention which is given here by way of example only. The invention is not to be taken as limited to any of the specifie features as described, but comprehends all sueh variations thereof as eome within the scope of the appended elaims.
Claims (9)
1. An electrical wiring module comprising;
an elongated housing at least partially enclosing a space, and defining a hollow interior;
mounting flange means at each end of said housing, said flange means being recessed inwardly into said housing, and defining a connection space between each of said flanges and the adjacent end of said housing;
two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange;
electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within said housing;
a flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring in said housing and extending therefrom into a said connection space;
a male connection plug on the free end of said cable, said cable being of such length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from said connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug in an adjacent said module, said cable being retractable into said housing for storage;
intermediate connection means on said wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and, receptacle mounting means formed in said housing, whereby at least one receptacle may be installed in said housing, and connected to said connection means.
an elongated housing at least partially enclosing a space, and defining a hollow interior;
mounting flange means at each end of said housing, said flange means being recessed inwardly into said housing, and defining a connection space between each of said flanges and the adjacent end of said housing;
two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached in each such mounting flange;
electrical wiring connecting such female plugs, and located within said housing;
a flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring in said housing and extending therefrom into a said connection space;
a male connection plug on the free end of said cable, said cable being of such length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from said connection space and extended at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug in an adjacent said module, said cable being retractable into said housing for storage;
intermediate connection means on said wiring for connecting with at least one electrical receptacle, and, receptacle mounting means formed in said housing, whereby at least one receptacle may be installed in said housing, and connected to said connection means.
2. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said mounting flange means comprises two generally planar portions, located at angles to one another, a said female plug being mounted in one said portion, the other said portion being free.
3. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 2 including opening means formed in one of said mounting flange means, said flexible electrical cable extending movably through said opening means, whereby the same may be extended from and retracted back into said housing through said opening means.
4. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 3 including a loop of flexible electrical cable, normally stored within said housing, and being extendable from said housing, and being retractable back into said housing.
5. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said intermediate connection means comprises a second flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring, and located within said housing, female connection plug means on said second flexible cable, and, opening means formed in said housing, intermediate its two ends, and closure means for said opening means, said opening means giving access to said female connection plug means and said second flexible electrical cable, for coupling of an electrical receptacle thereto.
6. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 1 wherein said elongated housing comprises at least two generally parallel spaced apart side walls, and an inter-mediate top wall extending between said side walls, and together defining an elongated space therebetween, and including opening means formed in said top wall at spaced apart intervals, for reception of module fastening means therethrough, whereby said module may be fastened to a supporting structure.
7. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 6 including closure means releaseably attachable to the downwardly directed edges of said two side walls, for forming the fourth side to said elongated space.
8. An electrical wiring module as claimed in Claim 7 wherein said closure means includes a closure wall adapted to fit within said two side walls and extend therebetween, fastening means integrally formed with said closure wall, for attachment to said two side walls, and, flange means extending integrally therewith, and extending from at least one of said attachment means, in a plane below the plane of said closure wall, for supporting additional wiring thereon.
9. A movable panel structure, for use as a partition for partitioning space or the like, wherein electrical circuits are required for distribution of power, communications, and the like, said structural unit comprising;
generally rectangular panel means, supporting legs extending downwardly at spaced apart intervals from a lower portion of said panel means, and having foot means at the lower ends thereof for standing on a floor;
an elongated electrical wiring housing extending along the lower edge of said panel means, said housing having opening means therethrough for reception of said leg means therethrough, and including attachment means for attaching said housing to said lower edge of said panel;
partition means at each end of said elongated housing, recessed inwardly into said housing and defining connection spaces at each end thereof, located between said partition means and the opposite ends of said housing;
two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached on each said partition means;
electrical wiring within said housing connecting such female plugs;
a flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring in said housing, and extending from such wiring into a said connection space;
a male connection plug on the free end of said cable, said cable being of such a length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from said connection space, outwardly of said housing and extending at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug located spaced a predetermined distance therefrom, said cable being retractable into said housing for storage.
generally rectangular panel means, supporting legs extending downwardly at spaced apart intervals from a lower portion of said panel means, and having foot means at the lower ends thereof for standing on a floor;
an elongated electrical wiring housing extending along the lower edge of said panel means, said housing having opening means therethrough for reception of said leg means therethrough, and including attachment means for attaching said housing to said lower edge of said panel;
partition means at each end of said elongated housing, recessed inwardly into said housing and defining connection spaces at each end thereof, located between said partition means and the opposite ends of said housing;
two female connection plugs, one such plug being attached on each said partition means;
electrical wiring within said housing connecting such female plugs;
a flexible electrical cable connecting with said electrical wiring in said housing, and extending from such wiring into a said connection space;
a male connection plug on the free end of said cable, said cable being of such a length that the male connection plug may be withdrawn from said connection space, outwardly of said housing and extending at least a sufficient distance to connect with a female plug located spaced a predetermined distance therefrom, said cable being retractable into said housing for storage.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000403076A CA1182513A (en) | 1982-05-17 | 1982-05-17 | Modular wiring unit |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000403076A CA1182513A (en) | 1982-05-17 | 1982-05-17 | Modular wiring unit |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1182513A true CA1182513A (en) | 1985-02-12 |
Family
ID=4122792
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000403076A Expired CA1182513A (en) | 1982-05-17 | 1982-05-17 | Modular wiring unit |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1182513A (en) |
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