CA2110641A1 - Extension cord connector - Google Patents
Extension cord connectorInfo
- Publication number
- CA2110641A1 CA2110641A1 CA 2110641 CA2110641A CA2110641A1 CA 2110641 A1 CA2110641 A1 CA 2110641A1 CA 2110641 CA2110641 CA 2110641 CA 2110641 A CA2110641 A CA 2110641A CA 2110641 A1 CA2110641 A1 CA 2110641A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- connecting assembly
- connector
- plugs
- cylindrical
- members
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01R—ELECTRICALLY-CONDUCTIVE CONNECTIONS; STRUCTURAL ASSOCIATIONS OF A PLURALITY OF MUTUALLY-INSULATED ELECTRICAL CONNECTING ELEMENTS; COUPLING DEVICES; CURRENT COLLECTORS
- H01R13/00—Details of coupling devices of the kinds covered by groups H01R12/70 or H01R24/00 - H01R33/00
- H01R13/62—Means for facilitating engagement or disengagement of coupling parts or for holding them in engagement
- H01R13/622—Screw-ring or screw-casing
Landscapes
- Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
Abstract
The invention provides a connector for extension cords which is adapted to prevent disconnection of two plugs and to provide physical protection therefore. The connector assembly is adjustable for different size plugs using a pair of screw threadably engageable cylinders.
Description
The present invention relates to connectors and more particularly, relates to connectors for extension cords.
The use of extension cords for conducting electricity to a desired location is well known and widely practiced. Thus, extension cords are commonly used both in residential and industrial activities.
One particular problem which arises is the use of extension cords with portable appliances or tools wherein movement of the tool causes the extension cord to disconnect, usually from the appliance or tool being used. This is not only an inconvenience, but at times can represent a safety hazard.
In order to overcome this, there have been proposals for means to connect the two plugs together in a manner apart from the usual electrical connection. These proposals have ranged from tabs on the various plugs to interlocking means on the prongs of the plugs themselves.
While some are commercially used, there still exists a requirement for means for preventing such disconnection which can be adapted to many different types of plugs and which will also provide physical protection thereto.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide for a connector assembly to prevent disconnection of two plugs and to provide physical protection thereto.
In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly adapted for use with first and second electrical cords each having an end plug associated therewith, the connector assembly comprising a first end member, a second end member, a first generally cylindrical - 211~6~1 member adapted to be connected to a first one of the end members and a second cylindrical member adapted to be connected to the second end member. Each of the first and second cylindrical members have cooperative means thereon for being screw threadably engaged with each other in a manner so as to be adjustable in their overall length.
In greater detail, the connector assembly of the present invention may be used with many different types of cords. Thus, it may be adapted for use in connecting the male and female end of two extension cords together or alternatively, may be adapted for use with the male end of a tool or appliance connected to the female end of an extension cord. Other arrangements are also possible.
The invention will typically be used with a two or three conductor cord although, again, it may be adapted for use with any suitable type of plug which is adapted to mate with another plug or receptacle. To this end, there are a number of known different types of plugs.
The end caps of the present invention are preferably of an identical construction for ease of production. To this end, as will be described in greater detail hereinbelow, they each have a common mating relationship with one of the cylindrical members. Naturally, this particular arrangement could be varied.
Each end plug is designed to provide an abutting surface against which the end of the plug or receptacle will seat. To this end, there may be provided a flat or other similarly shaped surface on the interior of the end cap. The end cap will also include an aperture through which the cord passes and in order to provide for mounting of the end cap on the cord, the end cap is preferably formed of a single piece with a hinged portion to permit entry of the cord into the aperture or alternatively, it may be formed of two separate pieces.
The end cap, along with one of the cylindrical members, has means for interconnecting the two components.
These means may vary and may include any suitable type of connecting means although, in a preferred embodiment, the end cap and the cylindrical member are screw threadably engaged.
The invention contemplates a pair of cylindrical members which are adapted to engage by means of screw threads and thereby provide adjustability in the overall length. To this end, one of the cylinders may have screw threads on the interior surface with another one having the threads on the exterior surface and each of the cylinders being sized so as to screw threadably engage.
The components of the present invention may be formed of any suitable material and to this end, are preferably formed of a suitable plastic or metallic material.
Combinations of materials may be utilized if so desired.
Having thus generally described the invention, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings illustrating an embodiment thereof, in which:
Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a connector assembly according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines 2 - 2 of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines 3-3 of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines 4-4 of Figure 2;
Figures 4a and 4b are views similar to Figure 4 illustrating use of the connector assembly with different types of plugs;
Figure 5 is an end view of one of the end caps;
Figure 6 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 5 indicated by arrow 6;
Figure 7 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 5 indicated by arrow 7;
Figure 8 is a view of the end cap when in an open position;
Figure 9 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 8 indicated by arrow 9;
Figure 10 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 8 indicated by arrow lO; and Figure 11 is a perspective view of the disassembled components of the connector assembly.
Referring to the drawings in greater detail, and by reference characters thereto; Figure 1 illustrates the connection of two cords 14 and 14' which as is conventional, comprise a plurality of conductors 16 and 16'; insulation 18 and 18'; and an outer sheathing 20 and 20'. Each cord 14 and 14' has associated therewith a plug cap 24 and 24' respectively. The arrangement thus described is substantially conventional and well known in the art. In this respect, the use of the terminology "cord" can apply to a cord and associated plug or receptacle either as used in an - 21106~1 extension cord or, for example, as used in a tool or appliance such as an electric saw, drill, etc.
There are various known plugs/terminals and different ones of these are illustrated in Figures 4, 4a and 4b. Thus, in the embodiment of Figure 4, terminals 24 and 24' each have brackets 26 and 26' as the cord enters the plug with a nut and bolt assembly 28 and 28' respectively being adapted to grip the cord.
The connector assembly of the present invention includes first and second end caps 40 and 42 respectively.
The assembly also includes an inner connector 44 and an outer connector 46.
Each of end caps 40 and 42 are substantially identical and thus, only one will be described in detail herein. End cap 40 has a frustroconical portion 48 terminating at a narrow end 50 with a wider end merging with a cylindrical portion generally designated by reference numeral 54. Cylindrical portion 54, at its free end, is recessed inwardly as indicated by reference 56 and in the recess, there are provided exterior screw threads 58. An aperture 60 is provided for passage of cord 14.
As shown in greater detail in Figures 5, 6 and 7, end cap 40 is formed of a first half 62 and a second half 64 connected together by means of an integrally formed hinge 66.
At cylindrical portion 54, half 62 is provided with a projection 68 which is adapted to fit within a recess 70 formed in second half 64. Thus, projection 68 acts as a pin or guide to ensure correct alignment of first and second halves 62 and 64 respectively. On the exterior, end cap 40 21106~1 may be provided with a knurled surface 72.
Inner connector 44 has a generally cylindrically shaped body portion 74. A gripping ring 76 having a knurled surface 78 is provided at one end of body portion 74 and is of a slightly greater diameter than the rest of body 74.
Screw threads 80 are formed on the exterior surface of cylindrical body 74 with interior threads 82 being formed at the end proximate gripping ring 76.
Outer connector 46 has a generally cylindrical body portion 90 having a knurled surface 92 on the exterior. The interior of the cylindrical body 90 is provided with interior threads 94.
In operation, end caps 40 and 42 may be placed about cords 14 and 14' respectively due to the hinged nature of the end cap. Subsequently, end cap 14' can be screw threadably engaged with inner connector 44 by means of mating screw threads 58 and 82. Subsequently, outer connector 46 is screw threadably engaged with end cap 14 and inner connector 44 in the manner shown in Figures 1 and 4. As the engagement of outer connector 46 and inner connector 44 continues, an inner end 30 of frustroconical portion 48 of end connector 14 is brought into engagement with terminal 24. A like engagement occurs at the other end with end cap 42. As may be seen from Figures 4, 4a and 4b, the connecting assembly is readily adaptable to many different sizes and types of terminals and provides a secure connection. Thus, differently configured terminals or plugs 32, 32', 34 and 34' may all be used with the connector assembly provided herein.
`- 211รป641 It will be understood that the above described embodiment is for purposes of illustration only and that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the precise arrangements of the threads between the components could be modified. For example, the end caps could have interior threads which would engage with exterior threads on both the inner and outer connector. Such an arrangement would still provide the adaptability of the connecting assembly for different size terminals. Similarly, one or more of the inner and outer connectors could have an arrangement similar to that of the end plugs for formation in a hinged fashion.
The use of extension cords for conducting electricity to a desired location is well known and widely practiced. Thus, extension cords are commonly used both in residential and industrial activities.
One particular problem which arises is the use of extension cords with portable appliances or tools wherein movement of the tool causes the extension cord to disconnect, usually from the appliance or tool being used. This is not only an inconvenience, but at times can represent a safety hazard.
In order to overcome this, there have been proposals for means to connect the two plugs together in a manner apart from the usual electrical connection. These proposals have ranged from tabs on the various plugs to interlocking means on the prongs of the plugs themselves.
While some are commercially used, there still exists a requirement for means for preventing such disconnection which can be adapted to many different types of plugs and which will also provide physical protection thereto.
It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide for a connector assembly to prevent disconnection of two plugs and to provide physical protection thereto.
In one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a connector assembly adapted for use with first and second electrical cords each having an end plug associated therewith, the connector assembly comprising a first end member, a second end member, a first generally cylindrical - 211~6~1 member adapted to be connected to a first one of the end members and a second cylindrical member adapted to be connected to the second end member. Each of the first and second cylindrical members have cooperative means thereon for being screw threadably engaged with each other in a manner so as to be adjustable in their overall length.
In greater detail, the connector assembly of the present invention may be used with many different types of cords. Thus, it may be adapted for use in connecting the male and female end of two extension cords together or alternatively, may be adapted for use with the male end of a tool or appliance connected to the female end of an extension cord. Other arrangements are also possible.
The invention will typically be used with a two or three conductor cord although, again, it may be adapted for use with any suitable type of plug which is adapted to mate with another plug or receptacle. To this end, there are a number of known different types of plugs.
The end caps of the present invention are preferably of an identical construction for ease of production. To this end, as will be described in greater detail hereinbelow, they each have a common mating relationship with one of the cylindrical members. Naturally, this particular arrangement could be varied.
Each end plug is designed to provide an abutting surface against which the end of the plug or receptacle will seat. To this end, there may be provided a flat or other similarly shaped surface on the interior of the end cap. The end cap will also include an aperture through which the cord passes and in order to provide for mounting of the end cap on the cord, the end cap is preferably formed of a single piece with a hinged portion to permit entry of the cord into the aperture or alternatively, it may be formed of two separate pieces.
The end cap, along with one of the cylindrical members, has means for interconnecting the two components.
These means may vary and may include any suitable type of connecting means although, in a preferred embodiment, the end cap and the cylindrical member are screw threadably engaged.
The invention contemplates a pair of cylindrical members which are adapted to engage by means of screw threads and thereby provide adjustability in the overall length. To this end, one of the cylinders may have screw threads on the interior surface with another one having the threads on the exterior surface and each of the cylinders being sized so as to screw threadably engage.
The components of the present invention may be formed of any suitable material and to this end, are preferably formed of a suitable plastic or metallic material.
Combinations of materials may be utilized if so desired.
Having thus generally described the invention, reference will be made to the accompanying drawings illustrating an embodiment thereof, in which:
Figure 1 is a side elevational view of a connector assembly according to the present invention;
Figure 2 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines 2 - 2 of Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines 3-3 of Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a cross sectional view taken along the lines 4-4 of Figure 2;
Figures 4a and 4b are views similar to Figure 4 illustrating use of the connector assembly with different types of plugs;
Figure 5 is an end view of one of the end caps;
Figure 6 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 5 indicated by arrow 6;
Figure 7 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 5 indicated by arrow 7;
Figure 8 is a view of the end cap when in an open position;
Figure 9 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 8 indicated by arrow 9;
Figure 10 is a detailed view of that portion of Figure 8 indicated by arrow lO; and Figure 11 is a perspective view of the disassembled components of the connector assembly.
Referring to the drawings in greater detail, and by reference characters thereto; Figure 1 illustrates the connection of two cords 14 and 14' which as is conventional, comprise a plurality of conductors 16 and 16'; insulation 18 and 18'; and an outer sheathing 20 and 20'. Each cord 14 and 14' has associated therewith a plug cap 24 and 24' respectively. The arrangement thus described is substantially conventional and well known in the art. In this respect, the use of the terminology "cord" can apply to a cord and associated plug or receptacle either as used in an - 21106~1 extension cord or, for example, as used in a tool or appliance such as an electric saw, drill, etc.
There are various known plugs/terminals and different ones of these are illustrated in Figures 4, 4a and 4b. Thus, in the embodiment of Figure 4, terminals 24 and 24' each have brackets 26 and 26' as the cord enters the plug with a nut and bolt assembly 28 and 28' respectively being adapted to grip the cord.
The connector assembly of the present invention includes first and second end caps 40 and 42 respectively.
The assembly also includes an inner connector 44 and an outer connector 46.
Each of end caps 40 and 42 are substantially identical and thus, only one will be described in detail herein. End cap 40 has a frustroconical portion 48 terminating at a narrow end 50 with a wider end merging with a cylindrical portion generally designated by reference numeral 54. Cylindrical portion 54, at its free end, is recessed inwardly as indicated by reference 56 and in the recess, there are provided exterior screw threads 58. An aperture 60 is provided for passage of cord 14.
As shown in greater detail in Figures 5, 6 and 7, end cap 40 is formed of a first half 62 and a second half 64 connected together by means of an integrally formed hinge 66.
At cylindrical portion 54, half 62 is provided with a projection 68 which is adapted to fit within a recess 70 formed in second half 64. Thus, projection 68 acts as a pin or guide to ensure correct alignment of first and second halves 62 and 64 respectively. On the exterior, end cap 40 21106~1 may be provided with a knurled surface 72.
Inner connector 44 has a generally cylindrically shaped body portion 74. A gripping ring 76 having a knurled surface 78 is provided at one end of body portion 74 and is of a slightly greater diameter than the rest of body 74.
Screw threads 80 are formed on the exterior surface of cylindrical body 74 with interior threads 82 being formed at the end proximate gripping ring 76.
Outer connector 46 has a generally cylindrical body portion 90 having a knurled surface 92 on the exterior. The interior of the cylindrical body 90 is provided with interior threads 94.
In operation, end caps 40 and 42 may be placed about cords 14 and 14' respectively due to the hinged nature of the end cap. Subsequently, end cap 14' can be screw threadably engaged with inner connector 44 by means of mating screw threads 58 and 82. Subsequently, outer connector 46 is screw threadably engaged with end cap 14 and inner connector 44 in the manner shown in Figures 1 and 4. As the engagement of outer connector 46 and inner connector 44 continues, an inner end 30 of frustroconical portion 48 of end connector 14 is brought into engagement with terminal 24. A like engagement occurs at the other end with end cap 42. As may be seen from Figures 4, 4a and 4b, the connecting assembly is readily adaptable to many different sizes and types of terminals and provides a secure connection. Thus, differently configured terminals or plugs 32, 32', 34 and 34' may all be used with the connector assembly provided herein.
`- 211รป641 It will be understood that the above described embodiment is for purposes of illustration only and that changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, the precise arrangements of the threads between the components could be modified. For example, the end caps could have interior threads which would engage with exterior threads on both the inner and outer connector. Such an arrangement would still provide the adaptability of the connecting assembly for different size terminals. Similarly, one or more of the inner and outer connectors could have an arrangement similar to that of the end plugs for formation in a hinged fashion.
Claims (4)
1. A connecting assembly adapted for use with first and second electrical cords each having an end plug associated therewith, said connecting assembly comprising a first end member, a second end member, a first generally cylindrical member adapted to be connected to a first one of said end members, a second cylindrical member adapted to be connected to said second end member, each of said first and second cylindrical members having means for being screw threadably engaged in a manner so as to adjust the overall length of the connecting assembly.
2. The connecting assembly of claim 1 wherein each of said first and second end members is screw threadably engaged with one of said first and second cylindrical members.
3. The connecting assembly of claim 1 or 2 wherein said connecting assembly is formed of a plastic or metallic material.
4. The connecting assembly of claim 1, 2 or 3, wherein each of said end members is formed of first and second halves hingedly connected together.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2110641 CA2110641A1 (en) | 1993-12-03 | 1993-12-03 | Extension cord connector |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2110641 CA2110641A1 (en) | 1993-12-03 | 1993-12-03 | Extension cord connector |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2110641A1 true CA2110641A1 (en) | 1995-06-04 |
Family
ID=4152568
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2110641 Abandoned CA2110641A1 (en) | 1993-12-03 | 1993-12-03 | Extension cord connector |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2110641A1 (en) |
-
1993
- 1993-12-03 CA CA 2110641 patent/CA2110641A1/en not_active Abandoned
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |