CA2419514A1 - Two piece wallplate meeting ul 514d standard - Google Patents
Two piece wallplate meeting ul 514d standard Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2419514A1 CA2419514A1 CA 2419514 CA2419514A CA2419514A1 CA 2419514 A1 CA2419514 A1 CA 2419514A1 CA 2419514 CA2419514 CA 2419514 CA 2419514 A CA2419514 A CA 2419514A CA 2419514 A1 CA2419514 A1 CA 2419514A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- electrical
- outlet
- top plate
- wall plate
- plug
- 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
Landscapes
- Details Of Connecting Devices For Male And Female Coupling (AREA)
- Casings For Electric Apparatus (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates to a wall plate assembly having an electrical function incorporated directly into flee assembly. A top plate portion of the assembly provides power for the electrical function while supplying power to an electronic item plugged into an electrical wall outlet through the top plate. In this manner, various electrical functions can be operatively incorporated into the wall plate assembly without sacrificing the use of an outlet socket in a wall outlet.
Description
TW~ PIECE 'WL. PI,.ATE ET ~ ~TL 14ST1~
Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to a wall plate assembly having electrical functions.incorporated directly into the assembly, while also serving as a cover plate for an outlet through which electrical power is supplied to an electronic item plugged into the outlet.
~.ACZ~~z~ouN~ of THE z ~TZO~
Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to a wall plate assembly having electrical functions.incorporated directly into the assembly, while also serving as a cover plate for an outlet through which electrical power is supplied to an electronic item plugged into the outlet.
~.ACZ~~z~ouN~ of THE z ~TZO~
[0002] Electrical wall outlets are typically provided as a duplex receptacle having two outlet sockets along a wall, such that if more than two electrical items need to be plugged in at a particular location, a multiple outlet adapter or power strip must be plugged into one of the two outlet sockets to accc~mrnodate the additional items.
[0003] Oftentimes it is desirable to plug certain electrical devices, such as a nightlight or a surge protector, into an outlet socket and to leave it there at all times, which, for a typical duplex outlet, effectively leaves only one socket available for powering other electrical items. It would alms be desirable to incorporate the electrical functions provided by such devices directly into the wall plate itself, so as to leave both outlet sockets free to receive two electrical plugs without having to use a mufti-outlet adapter or power strip.
[0004] LT.T.S. patent No. 5,384,428 discloses an example of an integrated wall plate with a built-in surge protector. T'he disclosed wall plate includes surge protection circuitry, and two outlet receptacle covers which :over and are substa~ratially identical in appearance to the original outlet receptacles provided with. tlxe electrical wail box. A
plurality of j-shaped blades are connected to the surge protection circuitry and extend at least partially across the iaadividual apertures of at least one of the receptacle covers through which the prongs of a plug is to be inserted. When the plug is inserted into the outlet receptacle cover, the prongs contact the blades and thereby establish an electrical connection in which electricity carried by the prongs from the original outlet receptacle is passed through the surge protection circuitry, in addition to the electrically powered item to which the plug is connected.
plurality of j-shaped blades are connected to the surge protection circuitry and extend at least partially across the iaadividual apertures of at least one of the receptacle covers through which the prongs of a plug is to be inserted. When the plug is inserted into the outlet receptacle cover, the prongs contact the blades and thereby establish an electrical connection in which electricity carried by the prongs from the original outlet receptacle is passed through the surge protection circuitry, in addition to the electrically powered item to which the plug is connected.
[0005] Resent changes to the Underwriters Laboratory ("UL"~ standards, however, requires outlet wall plates to be constructed so that standard outlet plugs can be fully seated on the outlet receptacles provided. an the electrical wall box when the prongs of the plugs are inserted. into the receptacles. Since the wail plate of the '428 patent covers the original receptacles with receptacle covers, the wall plate disclosed in the '428 does not comply with the new IJL standard. 'Therefore, a need exists For a wall plate which enables the functions discussed above without occupying either of the receptacles in the wall outlet, and which is in compliance with the current ZJL standards.
Sumrnaa~ of the Invention [0006] A first aspect of the present invention is directed to a wall plate assembly in which functional features can be operatively inrorporated into the assembly without occupying either of the outlet receptacles in a duplex wall outlet.
Sumrnaa~ of the Invention [0006] A first aspect of the present invention is directed to a wall plate assembly in which functional features can be operatively inrorporated into the assembly without occupying either of the outlet receptacles in a duplex wall outlet.
[0007) A second aspect of the present invention is directed to a multiple function wall plate assembly which complies with current UL standards for wall plates.
[0008 The present invention includes a wall plate and a top plate having built-in circuitry for performing the desired functions to be incorporated into the assembly. The wall plate is mountable to an electrical wall outlet, and has openings for e~cposing the outlet sockets of the wall outlet, and also includes embossed and/or debossed portions on the top surface thereof: The top plate also includes debossed and/or embossed portions on its bottom surface which matingly fit with the embossed and/or debossed portions on the wall plate. The top plate ftxrther includes two outlet faces which saver the outlet sockets of the wall outlet, wherein at Ieast one of the outlet faces has at least one electrical contact connected to the built-in circuitry and extending at least partially across at least one aperhare of the outlet face through which the prongs of a plug are to be inserted. Upon insertion of a plug of an electrical device ix~to the outlet Ease, the prongs of the plug touch the contacts) so that electricity drawn through rlae prongs of the plug from the outlet flows not only to the electrical device to which the plug is connected, but also to the circuitry built into the top plate, to thereby supply power for operating the function or functions provided by the built-in circuit.
[0009] Constrazcted in this rr~anner, a user can use the assembly with only the wall plate to use the wall outlet in the standard manner, or the user can attach the top plate to the specially designed wall plate to enable operation of the function or functions incorporated in the top plate.
[0010] ~ther features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptioxa of the invention which refer. s to the accompanying drawings.
brief Description of the Drawings [00~ ~ ] Fig. 1 is an exploded view of the wall plate assembly in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of the top plate portion of the wall plate assembly of the embodiment shown in Fig. I.
[0012] Fig. 3 is a rear elevataonal view of the top plate portion of the wall plate assembly of the present invention.
[0013] Fig. 4 is a front perspective ~riew of the wall plate portion along with a rear perspective view of the top plate portion of the wall plate assembly.
[0014] Fig. 5 is a rear view of the wall plate portion of the wall plate assembly aligned with the rear of the top plate portion for engagement therewith.
[0015] Fig. 6 is an exploded view of tl~e wall plate assembly in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] Fig. 7 shows a top plate baying a flat panel night light according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] Fig. ~ shows a top plate with a switched incandescent night light according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] Fig. 9 shows a top plate inclaxding a combined flat panel night light and air freshener according to a fifth erixbodiment of the present invention.
[0019] Fig. 10 shows a top plate which includes an E:rnergency light according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] Fig. 11 shows a top plate which includes an alarm function for critical applications according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] Fig. 12 shows a top plate having a load detector according to a~~
eighth embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] Fig. 13 shows a top plate having a detector according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] Fig. 14 shows a top plate having a surge protector and telephone/data and video cable connections according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] Fag. 15 shows a top plate having a combination toggle switch and duple outlet according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] Fig. 16 shows a top plate ha~i~.g a~. antenna and amplifier coupling accor ' g to a twelfth embodiment of the present inventio:~.
Detailed Description ~f 'T'he T'referred FJmbodirnents electrical plug are inserted through tl~e prong openings 52, 53 and 54, the prongs touch contacts 55, 56 and 57, thereby supplying electrical poorer to electric circuit 134.
[0031 ] ~rccording to a preferred egnbodirrlent o~ the iinvention, the contacts are thin portion is provided, it is preferable to orient the wall plate 20 so that the embossed portion is arranged on top. Top plate 30 is then secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 with the corresponding debossed portion 59 at the rear surfaa:e of top plate 30, and pressing top plate 30 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 30 snaps into place over wall plate 20. Figs. 4 and 5 are illustrations to facilitate understanding the manner ~of asseanbling top plate 30 to wall plate 2f==.
[0033] In a variation of this embodiment, wall plate 20 includes a debossed portion either in addition to or in place of at least one of embossed portions 21, 23, and top plate 30 includes a correspondingly shaped embossed portion at the rear surface thereof for engaging the debossed portion on wall plate 20.
[0034] When top plate 30 is mounted onto wall plate 20, outlet faces 50, 51 cover outlet socket surfaces 12, 14, with apertures 52, 53 and 54 of the former aligned with apertures 11, I3 and 15, respectively, of duplex outlet sockets I2, 14.
Moreover, as best shown in Fig. 2, a set of electrical contacts 55, 5b and 57, ~~hich are connected to a surge protector circuitry, housed in the upper portion. of top plate 30, extend partially into the apertures 52, 53 and 54, respectively, in at least one of outlet faces 50, 51 in top plate 30;
so as to contact the neutral, live, and ground prongs of an electrical plug inserted into apertures 52, 53, and 54. Electrical contacts 55, 56 and 57 are connected to the surge protector circuitry housed in the upper portion of top plate 30 so that upon inserting the prongs of the plug of an electrical device through the outlet face and into the corresponding outlet socket, the prongs of the plug press against the contacts 55, 56 and [0035] 57, whereby electricity flowing into the prongs from the outlet I0 flows not onYy into the electrical device being powered by the electrical connection, but also into the surge protector circuitry to provide power to operate the surge protection functionality provided in the top plate 30.
[0036] Referring to Figs. b-16, various alternative embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In each of the alternative: described, electrical power is supplied to the device as needed by way of an electrical plug inserted through ope ' gs to be provided adjacent an underlying outlet receptacle. Electrical power is transmitted by prongs on the plug to the device by way of contacts disposed within the openings that contact the plug prongs, as described above.
[0037) 1~ second eanbodin~ent of the present invention is illustrated in Fig.
6, in which top plate 30 having the surge protector incorporated therein is substituted with a top plate 40 having a electrolun~inescent night light incorporated therein.
Specifically, upper portion 32 of top plate 30 containing the electrical circuitry providing the surge protection function, and the surge and ground indicator lights are replaced with an electroiuaninescent panel 42 at the front face 61 of the top plate 40, along with, the corresponding circuitry provided behind electroluminescent panel 42 or at the rear surface of top plate 40. Like top plate 30, however, top plate 40 of the present invention includes outlet faces 50, 51 which cover outlet sockets 12, 14 of the ~watl outlet 10, wherein the outlet faces 50, 51 have apertures 52, 53 and 54 corresponding to outlet socket apertures 11,13 and 15 of outlet 10, and electrical contacts 55, 56 and 57 extend into the apertures 52, 53 and 54, respectively, to contact the prongs of an electrical plug inserted through the outlet face. Top plate 40 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof,, signilarly to in top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate ~:0 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 40, and pressing top plate 40 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 40 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0035) Fig. 7 illustrates a top plate 70 which includes a ilat panel night light according to a third. ernbodirnent of the present W vention. The nightlight housing 71 is preferably n~aade of an injection molded thermoplastic and contains an electroluminescent (EL) lamp 72. The lamp is powered by inserting the prongs of an electrical plug into plug openings 73, 74. Copper contact strips {not shown) positioned with the openings touch the prongs to provide power to the lamp. The contact strips are provided in a manner similar to that described above. Top plate 70 covers one outlet socket while leaving others exposed, with an opening 24 provided by wall plate 20 underneath for the exposed sockets.
Top plate 70 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 70 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 70, and pressing top plate 70 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 70 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0039] Fig. 7 also illustrates another aspect of the present invention which may be incorporated into any of the embodiments described herein. Specifically, top plate 70 is sued to only cover a portion of wall plate 20, so as to leave at least one outlet socket exposed.
[0040] In Fig. ~, a more conventional night light is incorporated into a top plate in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. '~"he night light top plate 75 includes an incandescent bulb 76 enclosed within a clear plastic casing 7?.
'fhe night light can be operated by a slide switch 7S. Electrical power is provided to bulb 76 by way of electrical contact strips (not shown). 'fop plate 75 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 75 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at flee rear surface of top plate 75, and pressing top plate 75 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 75 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[004I] Fig. 9 illustrates a top plate 79 having a combined night light and air freshener according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. An EL
material SO
and a heated air freshener module S 1 receive power from contacts in the plug receptacle openings in the manner described above. Alternatively, instead of an air freshener, an active air purifier may be included, for example. °fop plate 79 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3.
Like top plate 30, top plate 79 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 2I or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 79, and pressing top plate 79 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 79 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0042] Fig. 10 illustrates a sixth embodirnient of the present invention in which a top plate 82 includes an emergency light fixture, such as a lamp powered by a rechargeable battery (not shown). The lamp is configured to light up by the power of the battery, upon loss of power to the outlet. The rechargeable battery receives charging power when an electrical plug is inserted through the openings in the top plate and into the underlying outlet socket so that the prongs of the plug contact the electrical contacts disposed on the top plate as described above. Alternatively, the light shown in Fig. 10 may be provided as a separate light module detachabiy connected to the top plate, for example. Top plate 82 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 82 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 82, and pressing top plate 82 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 82 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0043 Fig. 11 illustrates a top plate 83 having an alarm function for critical applications in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
In particular, the top plate includes an alarm that is activated upon removal of an electrical plug from the outlet. The alarm sound emanates from a grill opening 84 formed in the wall plate housing. A status light 85 indicates whether or not the devgce aS
functioning properly. The alarm can be controlled by a slide switch 86. °Top plate 83 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3.
Like top plate 30, top plate 83 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 83, and pressing top plate 83 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 83 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0044 Fig. 12 illustrates a top plate 87 having a load detection function an accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The top plate houses a load meter 88 which indicates the amperage being drawn from the outlet.
Alternatively, or in addition, a status Lamp and/or alarm may be provided to indicate an overload condition.
Top plate 82 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 87 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with tlxe corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 87, and pressing top plate 87 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 87 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0045] Fig. 13 illustrates top plate 110 having a modem protector according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The housing ixicludes input and output ports 89, 90 for a set of modem input and output connection cables. Indicator lights 91, 92 indicate the protection status or operation mode of the modem. Top plate 110 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3.
Like top plate 30, top plate 110 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 110, and pressing top plate 110 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 110 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0046] Fig. 14 illustrates a top plate 93 having a surge protection function according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. Circuitry for surge protection and filtering, well known in the art, is contained within the top plate housing and is powered by plug prongs by way of contacts in the receptacle openings as described above.
i~'arious plug receptacles 94, 95 are provided for connection with telephone or network devices. Other types of cables, such as for computer networks or antennae, carp be connected to top plate 93 by way of connectors 96, 97, Indicator lights 98, 99 provide status information as determined by the manufacturer or supplier of the electrical circuit providing the surge protection function in top plate 93. Audible alarms may also be included in the device.
Top plate 93 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 93 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 93, and pressing top plate 93 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 93 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0047] Fig. 15 illustrates a top plate 100 having an opening to accommodate a toggle switch in addition to outlet faces 102 according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The top plate is installed around an existing toggle switch 101 and duplex outlet. V6~ithin the housing, surge protection circuitry for a telephone, for example, is provided. Electrical power for the surge protection circuit may be provided by way of tlne plug prongs of the electrical plug attached. to the telephone itself and.
plugged into one of the outlet sockets through an outlet face 102. Top plate 100 also leas a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shov~n in Fig. 3. like top plate 30, top plate 100 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed.
portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 100, and pressing top plate 100 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 100 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0048 J Fig. 16 illustrates a top plate I03 which incorporates an antennae and/or amplifier according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. Cable attachments 104, 105, 106, 107 provide access to a power antenna and/or ~ signal amplifier housed within the top plate 103 and powered by accessing the outlet receptacles with a set of plug prongs as described above. Top plate 103 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. like to;p plate 30, top plate 103 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 103, and pressing top plate 103 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 103 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0049] Electrical circuit devices that can be: powered b~y the present invention include, without limitation, night lights, emergency lights, air fresheners, air purifiers, pest controls, alarms, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, amplifiers, antennae, motion sensors, home security nodules, home automation rr~odules, surge protectors, electronic filters, load indicators, and home-wiring based network connections for telephones or local area networks (LA1~TS). Some of the various applications can utilize a rechargeable battery, as will be apparent to those of skill in th.e art. Other devices can utilize microprocessors or other active devices powered through the connection.
[0050] Although the present invention leas been described in relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is preferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by the specific disclosure herein, but only by the appended claims.
~4
[0008 The present invention includes a wall plate and a top plate having built-in circuitry for performing the desired functions to be incorporated into the assembly. The wall plate is mountable to an electrical wall outlet, and has openings for e~cposing the outlet sockets of the wall outlet, and also includes embossed and/or debossed portions on the top surface thereof: The top plate also includes debossed and/or embossed portions on its bottom surface which matingly fit with the embossed and/or debossed portions on the wall plate. The top plate ftxrther includes two outlet faces which saver the outlet sockets of the wall outlet, wherein at Ieast one of the outlet faces has at least one electrical contact connected to the built-in circuitry and extending at least partially across at least one aperhare of the outlet face through which the prongs of a plug are to be inserted. Upon insertion of a plug of an electrical device ix~to the outlet Ease, the prongs of the plug touch the contacts) so that electricity drawn through rlae prongs of the plug from the outlet flows not only to the electrical device to which the plug is connected, but also to the circuitry built into the top plate, to thereby supply power for operating the function or functions provided by the built-in circuit.
[0009] Constrazcted in this rr~anner, a user can use the assembly with only the wall plate to use the wall outlet in the standard manner, or the user can attach the top plate to the specially designed wall plate to enable operation of the function or functions incorporated in the top plate.
[0010] ~ther features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following descriptioxa of the invention which refer. s to the accompanying drawings.
brief Description of the Drawings [00~ ~ ] Fig. 1 is an exploded view of the wall plate assembly in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention.
Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of the top plate portion of the wall plate assembly of the embodiment shown in Fig. I.
[0012] Fig. 3 is a rear elevataonal view of the top plate portion of the wall plate assembly of the present invention.
[0013] Fig. 4 is a front perspective ~riew of the wall plate portion along with a rear perspective view of the top plate portion of the wall plate assembly.
[0014] Fig. 5 is a rear view of the wall plate portion of the wall plate assembly aligned with the rear of the top plate portion for engagement therewith.
[0015] Fig. 6 is an exploded view of tl~e wall plate assembly in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0016] Fig. 7 shows a top plate baying a flat panel night light according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] Fig. ~ shows a top plate with a switched incandescent night light according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0018] Fig. 9 shows a top plate inclaxding a combined flat panel night light and air freshener according to a fifth erixbodiment of the present invention.
[0019] Fig. 10 shows a top plate which includes an E:rnergency light according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] Fig. 11 shows a top plate which includes an alarm function for critical applications according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0021] Fig. 12 shows a top plate having a load detector according to a~~
eighth embodiment of the present invention.
[0022] Fig. 13 shows a top plate having a detector according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] Fig. 14 shows a top plate having a surge protector and telephone/data and video cable connections according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] Fag. 15 shows a top plate having a combination toggle switch and duple outlet according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] Fig. 16 shows a top plate ha~i~.g a~. antenna and amplifier coupling accor ' g to a twelfth embodiment of the present inventio:~.
Detailed Description ~f 'T'he T'referred FJmbodirnents electrical plug are inserted through tl~e prong openings 52, 53 and 54, the prongs touch contacts 55, 56 and 57, thereby supplying electrical poorer to electric circuit 134.
[0031 ] ~rccording to a preferred egnbodirrlent o~ the iinvention, the contacts are thin portion is provided, it is preferable to orient the wall plate 20 so that the embossed portion is arranged on top. Top plate 30 is then secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 with the corresponding debossed portion 59 at the rear surfaa:e of top plate 30, and pressing top plate 30 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 30 snaps into place over wall plate 20. Figs. 4 and 5 are illustrations to facilitate understanding the manner ~of asseanbling top plate 30 to wall plate 2f==.
[0033] In a variation of this embodiment, wall plate 20 includes a debossed portion either in addition to or in place of at least one of embossed portions 21, 23, and top plate 30 includes a correspondingly shaped embossed portion at the rear surface thereof for engaging the debossed portion on wall plate 20.
[0034] When top plate 30 is mounted onto wall plate 20, outlet faces 50, 51 cover outlet socket surfaces 12, 14, with apertures 52, 53 and 54 of the former aligned with apertures 11, I3 and 15, respectively, of duplex outlet sockets I2, 14.
Moreover, as best shown in Fig. 2, a set of electrical contacts 55, 5b and 57, ~~hich are connected to a surge protector circuitry, housed in the upper portion. of top plate 30, extend partially into the apertures 52, 53 and 54, respectively, in at least one of outlet faces 50, 51 in top plate 30;
so as to contact the neutral, live, and ground prongs of an electrical plug inserted into apertures 52, 53, and 54. Electrical contacts 55, 56 and 57 are connected to the surge protector circuitry housed in the upper portion of top plate 30 so that upon inserting the prongs of the plug of an electrical device through the outlet face and into the corresponding outlet socket, the prongs of the plug press against the contacts 55, 56 and [0035] 57, whereby electricity flowing into the prongs from the outlet I0 flows not onYy into the electrical device being powered by the electrical connection, but also into the surge protector circuitry to provide power to operate the surge protection functionality provided in the top plate 30.
[0036] Referring to Figs. b-16, various alternative embodiments of the present invention will be described below. In each of the alternative: described, electrical power is supplied to the device as needed by way of an electrical plug inserted through ope ' gs to be provided adjacent an underlying outlet receptacle. Electrical power is transmitted by prongs on the plug to the device by way of contacts disposed within the openings that contact the plug prongs, as described above.
[0037) 1~ second eanbodin~ent of the present invention is illustrated in Fig.
6, in which top plate 30 having the surge protector incorporated therein is substituted with a top plate 40 having a electrolun~inescent night light incorporated therein.
Specifically, upper portion 32 of top plate 30 containing the electrical circuitry providing the surge protection function, and the surge and ground indicator lights are replaced with an electroiuaninescent panel 42 at the front face 61 of the top plate 40, along with, the corresponding circuitry provided behind electroluminescent panel 42 or at the rear surface of top plate 40. Like top plate 30, however, top plate 40 of the present invention includes outlet faces 50, 51 which cover outlet sockets 12, 14 of the ~watl outlet 10, wherein the outlet faces 50, 51 have apertures 52, 53 and 54 corresponding to outlet socket apertures 11,13 and 15 of outlet 10, and electrical contacts 55, 56 and 57 extend into the apertures 52, 53 and 54, respectively, to contact the prongs of an electrical plug inserted through the outlet face. Top plate 40 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof,, signilarly to in top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate ~:0 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 40, and pressing top plate 40 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 40 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0035) Fig. 7 illustrates a top plate 70 which includes a ilat panel night light according to a third. ernbodirnent of the present W vention. The nightlight housing 71 is preferably n~aade of an injection molded thermoplastic and contains an electroluminescent (EL) lamp 72. The lamp is powered by inserting the prongs of an electrical plug into plug openings 73, 74. Copper contact strips {not shown) positioned with the openings touch the prongs to provide power to the lamp. The contact strips are provided in a manner similar to that described above. Top plate 70 covers one outlet socket while leaving others exposed, with an opening 24 provided by wall plate 20 underneath for the exposed sockets.
Top plate 70 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 70 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 70, and pressing top plate 70 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 70 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0039] Fig. 7 also illustrates another aspect of the present invention which may be incorporated into any of the embodiments described herein. Specifically, top plate 70 is sued to only cover a portion of wall plate 20, so as to leave at least one outlet socket exposed.
[0040] In Fig. ~, a more conventional night light is incorporated into a top plate in accordance with a fourth embodiment of the present invention. '~"he night light top plate 75 includes an incandescent bulb 76 enclosed within a clear plastic casing 7?.
'fhe night light can be operated by a slide switch 7S. Electrical power is provided to bulb 76 by way of electrical contact strips (not shown). 'fop plate 75 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 75 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at flee rear surface of top plate 75, and pressing top plate 75 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 75 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[004I] Fig. 9 illustrates a top plate 79 having a combined night light and air freshener according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. An EL
material SO
and a heated air freshener module S 1 receive power from contacts in the plug receptacle openings in the manner described above. Alternatively, instead of an air freshener, an active air purifier may be included, for example. °fop plate 79 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3.
Like top plate 30, top plate 79 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 2I or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 79, and pressing top plate 79 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 79 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0042] Fig. 10 illustrates a sixth embodirnient of the present invention in which a top plate 82 includes an emergency light fixture, such as a lamp powered by a rechargeable battery (not shown). The lamp is configured to light up by the power of the battery, upon loss of power to the outlet. The rechargeable battery receives charging power when an electrical plug is inserted through the openings in the top plate and into the underlying outlet socket so that the prongs of the plug contact the electrical contacts disposed on the top plate as described above. Alternatively, the light shown in Fig. 10 may be provided as a separate light module detachabiy connected to the top plate, for example. Top plate 82 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 82 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 82, and pressing top plate 82 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 82 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0043 Fig. 11 illustrates a top plate 83 having an alarm function for critical applications in accordance with a seventh embodiment of the present invention.
In particular, the top plate includes an alarm that is activated upon removal of an electrical plug from the outlet. The alarm sound emanates from a grill opening 84 formed in the wall plate housing. A status light 85 indicates whether or not the devgce aS
functioning properly. The alarm can be controlled by a slide switch 86. °Top plate 83 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3.
Like top plate 30, top plate 83 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 83, and pressing top plate 83 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 83 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0044 Fig. 12 illustrates a top plate 87 having a load detection function an accordance with an eighth embodiment of the present invention. The top plate houses a load meter 88 which indicates the amperage being drawn from the outlet.
Alternatively, or in addition, a status Lamp and/or alarm may be provided to indicate an overload condition.
Top plate 82 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 87 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with tlxe corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 87, and pressing top plate 87 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 87 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0045] Fig. 13 illustrates top plate 110 having a modem protector according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention. The housing ixicludes input and output ports 89, 90 for a set of modem input and output connection cables. Indicator lights 91, 92 indicate the protection status or operation mode of the modem. Top plate 110 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3.
Like top plate 30, top plate 110 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 110, and pressing top plate 110 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 110 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0046] Fig. 14 illustrates a top plate 93 having a surge protection function according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention. Circuitry for surge protection and filtering, well known in the art, is contained within the top plate housing and is powered by plug prongs by way of contacts in the receptacle openings as described above.
i~'arious plug receptacles 94, 95 are provided for connection with telephone or network devices. Other types of cables, such as for computer networks or antennae, carp be connected to top plate 93 by way of connectors 96, 97, Indicator lights 98, 99 provide status information as determined by the manufacturer or supplier of the electrical circuit providing the surge protection function in top plate 93. Audible alarms may also be included in the device.
Top plate 93 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. Like top plate 30, top plate 93 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 93, and pressing top plate 93 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 93 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0047] Fig. 15 illustrates a top plate 100 having an opening to accommodate a toggle switch in addition to outlet faces 102 according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention. The top plate is installed around an existing toggle switch 101 and duplex outlet. V6~ithin the housing, surge protection circuitry for a telephone, for example, is provided. Electrical power for the surge protection circuit may be provided by way of tlne plug prongs of the electrical plug attached. to the telephone itself and.
plugged into one of the outlet sockets through an outlet face 102. Top plate 100 also leas a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shov~n in Fig. 3. like top plate 30, top plate 100 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed.
portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 100, and pressing top plate 100 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 100 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0048 J Fig. 16 illustrates a top plate I03 which incorporates an antennae and/or amplifier according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. Cable attachments 104, 105, 106, 107 provide access to a power antenna and/or ~ signal amplifier housed within the top plate 103 and powered by accessing the outlet receptacles with a set of plug prongs as described above. Top plate 103 also has a debossed portion at the rear surface thereof, similarly to top plate 30 as shown in Fig. 3. like to;p plate 30, top plate 103 is secured to wall plate 20 by aligning embossed portion 21 or 23 of wall plate 20 with the corresponding debossed portion at the rear surface of top plate 103, and pressing top plate 103 onto wall plate 20 until top plate 103 snaps into place over wall plate 20.
[0049] Electrical circuit devices that can be: powered b~y the present invention include, without limitation, night lights, emergency lights, air fresheners, air purifiers, pest controls, alarms, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, amplifiers, antennae, motion sensors, home security nodules, home automation rr~odules, surge protectors, electronic filters, load indicators, and home-wiring based network connections for telephones or local area networks (LA1~TS). Some of the various applications can utilize a rechargeable battery, as will be apparent to those of skill in th.e art. Other devices can utilize microprocessors or other active devices powered through the connection.
[0050] Although the present invention leas been described in relation to particular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modifications and other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It is preferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by the specific disclosure herein, but only by the appended claims.
~4
Claims (8)
1. A wall plate assembly comprising:
a wall plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and having at least one opening for being positioned around an electrical socket of the outlet, the wall plate further having at least one of a debossed region and/or an embossed region; and a top plate including:
an outlet face having a plurality of openings for receiving prongs of an electrical plug, at least one of a debossed region and/or an embossed region correspondingly sized and shaped with at least one of the debossed and/or embossed region of the wall plate to thereby matingly engage the same, an electrical circuit, and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of said outlet face and connecting to said electrical circuit;
whereby when an electrical plug is connected to an electrical socket of the outlet with the prongs of the plug inserted through said openings in said outlet face and into the socket, the prongs of the plug contact each of the contacts, respectively, such that electrical power is supplied to the electrical circuit connected to the contacts.
a wall plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and having at least one opening for being positioned around an electrical socket of the outlet, the wall plate further having at least one of a debossed region and/or an embossed region; and a top plate including:
an outlet face having a plurality of openings for receiving prongs of an electrical plug, at least one of a debossed region and/or an embossed region correspondingly sized and shaped with at least one of the debossed and/or embossed region of the wall plate to thereby matingly engage the same, an electrical circuit, and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of said outlet face and connecting to said electrical circuit;
whereby when an electrical plug is connected to an electrical socket of the outlet with the prongs of the plug inserted through said openings in said outlet face and into the socket, the prongs of the plug contact each of the contacts, respectively, such that electrical power is supplied to the electrical circuit connected to the contacts.
2. The wall plate assembly of claim 1, wherein said top plate is mountable over and onto said wall plate by press-fitting at least one debossed and/or embossed region of the top plate into engagement with the corresponding at least one embossed and/or debossed region of the wall plate.
3. The wall plate assembly of claim 1, wherein the electrical circuit provides at least one function which includes at least one of a night light, an emergency light, an air freshener, an air purifier, a pest control, an alarm, a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector, an amplifier, an antenna, a motion sensor, a home security module, a home automation module, a surge protector, an electronic filter, a load indicator, and a home-wiring based network connection for a telephone or local area network.
4. A method of providing electrical energy to an electrical circuit, the method comprising:
providing a wall plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and which includes at least one opening for being positioned around an electrical outlet socket of the electrical outlet and also having at least one embossed region and/or debossed region; and providing a top plate which includes:
an outlet face having a plurality of openings for receiving prongs of an electrical plug, at least one of a debossed region and/or an embossed region correspondingly sized and shaped with the at least one of the debossed and/or embossed region of the wall plate to thereby matingly engage the same, an electrical circuit, and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of the outlet face and connecting to the electrical circuit;
mounting the wall plate over and onto ara electrical outlet;
mounting the top plate over and onto said wall plate by press-fitting the respective embossed and debossed regions together; and inserting an electrical plug into the outlet receptacle, each of the at least one contact contacting a corresponding prong of the electrical plug, whereby electrical power is provided from the electrical outlet to the electrical circuit connected to the at least one contact.
providing a wall plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and which includes at least one opening for being positioned around an electrical outlet socket of the electrical outlet and also having at least one embossed region and/or debossed region; and providing a top plate which includes:
an outlet face having a plurality of openings for receiving prongs of an electrical plug, at least one of a debossed region and/or an embossed region correspondingly sized and shaped with the at least one of the debossed and/or embossed region of the wall plate to thereby matingly engage the same, an electrical circuit, and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of the outlet face and connecting to the electrical circuit;
mounting the wall plate over and onto ara electrical outlet;
mounting the top plate over and onto said wall plate by press-fitting the respective embossed and debossed regions together; and inserting an electrical plug into the outlet receptacle, each of the at least one contact contacting a corresponding prong of the electrical plug, whereby electrical power is provided from the electrical outlet to the electrical circuit connected to the at least one contact.
5. A power connector for an electrical circuit comprising:
a wall plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and having at least one opening for being positioned around an electrical socket of the outlet; and a top plate including:
an outlet face having a plurality of openings for receiving prongs of an electrical plug, an electrical circuit, and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of said outlet face and connecting to said electrical circuit;
whereby when an electrical plug is connected to an electrical socket of the outlet with the prongs of the plug inserted through said openings in said outlet face and into the socket, the prongs of the plug contact each of the contacts, respectively, such that electrical power is supplied to the electrical circuit connected to the contacts.
a wall plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and having at least one opening for being positioned around an electrical socket of the outlet; and a top plate including:
an outlet face having a plurality of openings for receiving prongs of an electrical plug, an electrical circuit, and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of said outlet face and connecting to said electrical circuit;
whereby when an electrical plug is connected to an electrical socket of the outlet with the prongs of the plug inserted through said openings in said outlet face and into the socket, the prongs of the plug contact each of the contacts, respectively, such that electrical power is supplied to the electrical circuit connected to the contacts.
6. A wall plate comprising a plate which is mountable over an electrical outlet and which includes:
at least one opening for being positioned around an outlet socket of the outlet; and at least one of an embossed region and/or debossed region.
at least one opening for being positioned around an outlet socket of the outlet; and at least one of an embossed region and/or debossed region.
7. A wall plate cover having an integrated electronic function, comprising a plate sized and shaped to cover at least a portion of a wall plate through which an outlet socket of an electrical wall outlet is exposed, said plate including:
at least one of a debossed and an embossed region;
at least one outlet face with a plurality of openings for and receiving prongs of an electrical plug therethrough;
an electrical circuit; and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of at least one of said at least one outlet face, wherein said at least one electrical contact is connected to said electrical circuit.
at least one of a debossed and an embossed region;
at least one outlet face with a plurality of openings for and receiving prongs of an electrical plug therethrough;
an electrical circuit; and at least one electrical contact extending into each opening of at least one of said at least one outlet face, wherein said at least one electrical contact is connected to said electrical circuit.
8. The top plate of claim 7, wherein the electrical circuit provides at least one function which includes at least one of a night light, an emergency light, an air freshener, an air purifier, a pest control, an alarm, a smoke detector, a carbon monoxide detector, an amplifier, an antenna, a motion sensor, a home security module, a home automation module, a surge protector, an electronic filter, a load indicator, and a home-wiring based network connection for a telephone or local area network.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US35836702P | 2002-02-22 | 2002-02-22 | |
| US60/358,367 | 2002-02-22 | ||
| US32156102A | 2002-12-18 | 2002-12-18 | |
| US10/321,561 | 2002-12-18 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2419514A1 true CA2419514A1 (en) | 2003-08-22 |
Family
ID=27807731
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2419514 Abandoned CA2419514A1 (en) | 2002-02-22 | 2003-02-21 | Two piece wallplate meeting ul 514d standard |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JP2003264041A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2419514A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10139790B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2018-11-27 | Vivint, Inc. | Powered faceplate integration |
Families Citing this family (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JP5530717B2 (en) * | 2006-10-27 | 2014-06-25 | アウトスマート・パワー・システムズ・エルエルシー | Mapped node in a wire network that provides power / communication and load identification |
| KR101772467B1 (en) * | 2017-01-04 | 2017-08-30 | 이슬기 | Power Tap with Power Display |
-
2003
- 2003-02-21 CA CA 2419514 patent/CA2419514A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-02-24 JP JP2003045887A patent/JP2003264041A/en active Pending
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US10139790B2 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2018-11-27 | Vivint, Inc. | Powered faceplate integration |
| US10591881B1 (en) | 2015-06-10 | 2020-03-17 | Vivint, Inc. | Powered faceplate integration |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JP2003264041A (en) | 2003-09-19 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| US20040142601A1 (en) | Adapter wall plate assembly with integrated electrical function | |
| US11632844B2 (en) | Active receptacle cover | |
| US5418521A (en) | Power cable with alarm | |
| US6827602B2 (en) | Hospital grade receptacle with power light indicator | |
| US7554033B1 (en) | Environmentally Protected Wiring Device | |
| US5844763A (en) | Electrical outlet assembly having field replaceable transient voltage surge suppression module | |
| US7713084B1 (en) | Protective electrical wiring device and system | |
| US20030201672A1 (en) | Battery connect/disconnect for an uninterruptible power supply | |
| US20200227902A1 (en) | Direct coverplate | |
| US20010046815A1 (en) | Method of providing electrical energy to devices without using prongs | |
| CA2419514A1 (en) | Two piece wallplate meeting ul 514d standard | |
| EP1045354B1 (en) | An alarm device | |
| WO2019179302A1 (en) | Module box, socket module, and modular socket | |
| US6447330B1 (en) | Cord-reel assembly partially mounted within a wall | |
| GB2337640A (en) | An electrical connector | |
| CN201061032Y (en) | Security lengthening line structure | |
| KR200270405Y1 (en) | a plug receptacle | |
| US20240237177A1 (en) | Active receptacle cover | |
| US7133265B2 (en) | Automatic anti-accident electrical outlet | |
| JP3007617U (en) | Multipurpose connector | |
| IES990426A2 (en) | An alarm device | |
| KR101187097B1 (en) | Multiple control outlet | |
| GB2487597A (en) | Electrical device | |
| JPH11250998A (en) | Receptacle strip provided with switch | |
| KR20010019838A (en) | Plug inclnding the fuse installed LED |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Dead |