CA2757124C

CA2757124C - Electrical outlet box with an l-shaped ground strap connected thereto

Info

Publication number: CA2757124C
Application number: CA2757124A
Authority: CA
Inventors: Jagjiwan Singh Mann
Original assignee: Ortech Industries Inc
Current assignee: Ortech Industries Inc
Priority date: 2011-10-31
Filing date: 2011-10-31
Publication date: 2014-05-20
Anticipated expiration: 2031-10-31
Also published as: CA2845101A1; CA2793301A1; CA2757124A1; CA2793301C; CA2793208C; CA2793197C; CA2793197A1; CA2793208A1

Abstract

The present invention relates to an outlet box assembly for retaining and grounding an electrical termination device. The assembly includes an outlet box having a closed end wall and a side wall extending outwards from the end wall. The assembly includes an L-shaped ground strap operatively connectable to the termination device. The ground strap has a first leg abutting the end wall and a second leg abutting the side wall.
The assembly includes a means for connecting the ground strap to the outlet box.

Description

=
Agent's Ref No. 1782P01CA
ELECTRICAL OUTLET BOX WITH AN L-SHAPED
GROUND STRAP CONNECTED THERETO
Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to an electrical outlet box.
In particular, the invention relates to an outlet box with an L-shaped ground strap connected thereto.
Description of the Related Art [0002] It is known to provide an outlet box assembly comprising a non-metallic outlet box and an L-shaped ground strap connected thereto. However, some of such existing, known devices may be relatively complex and expensive to manufacture. Still other known devices may be relatively time consuming to assemble. The ground straps of yet further known devices may not always electrically connect together with the rest of the assembly, including with other grounds straps of the assembly, in the case of assemblies having multiple ground straps. This may lead to reliability and safety concerns when using such devices.

[0003] There is accordingly a need to provide an improved outlet box assembly that overcomes the above disadvantages. There is also a need for an outlet box assembly that provides an alternative in the market place.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0004] The present invention provides an outlet box assembly disclosed herein that overcomes the above and other disadvantages. It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved outlet box assembly.

There is accordingly provided an outlet box assembly for retaining and grounding an electrical termination device. The assembly includes an outlet box having a closed end wall and a side wall extending outwards from the end wall. The assembly includes an L-shaped ground strap operatively connectable to the termination device. The ground strap has a first leg abutting the end wall. The ground strap has a second leg abutting the side wall. The second leg of the ground strap includes a distal end spaced-apart from the first leg of the ground strap. The ground strap has a pair of spaced-apart prong members extending outwards from the distal end of the second leg of the ground strap.
The prong members connect to the box for connecting ground strap to the box thereby.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0005] The invention will be more readily understood from the following description of preferred embodiments thereof given, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a first embodiment, the assembly comprising an outlet box and an L-shaped ground strap connected thereto;
Figure 2 is a rear perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of the ground strap shown in Figure 1, the ground strap having a first leg, a second leg, and an anchoring member for connecting to the outlet box, the anchoring member extending downwards from a distal end of the second leg;
Figure 4 is a perspective view of the outlet box shown in Figure 1, the outlet box being in fragment, the ground strap being removed, and a pair of coupling members of the outlet box being shown in detail;

Figure 5 is an elevation view of the coupling members shown in Figure 4, together with portions of the outlet box and the ground strap shown in cross-section, the ground strap being shown connected to the coupling members;
Figure 6 is a front perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 1, with fasteners further connecting the ground strap to the outlet box;
Figure 7 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a second embodiment, the assembly having an outlet box, a pair of L-shaped ground straps similar to the strap shown in Figure 3, and a connecting strap connecting the ground straps together;
Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 7;
Figure 9 is a perspective view of the connecting strap shown in Figure 7;
Figure 10 is a front perspective view of the outlet box shown in Figure 7 together the connecting strap connected thereto;
Figure 11 is a fragmentary, front perspective view of the outlet box shown in Figure 7, with the ground straps and the connecting strap removed, showing details of coupling members and hook-shaped members of the outlet box;
Figure 12 is an elevation view of the hook-shaped members shown in Figure 11, the hook-shaped members being shown in a retracted position in solid lines and being shown in an extended position in ghost lines;
Figure 13 is an elevation view of the coupling members shown in Figure 11, together with portions of the outlet box and one of the ground straps in cross-section, the ground strap being shown connected to the coupling members;

Figure 14 is a front perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 7, with fasteners further connecting both the ground straps and connecting strap to the outlet box;
Figure 15 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a third embodiment, with an outlet box, three L-shaped ground straps similar to the strap shown in Figure 3, and a connecting strap connecting the ground straps together;
Figure 16 is a rear perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 15;
Figure 17 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a fourth embodiment, the assembly having an outlet box and having an L-shaped ground strap similar to the strap shown in Figure 3, the outlet box having a plurality of inwardly extending access tabs and having a plurality of ridges disposed adjacent to the tabs;
Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 17;
Figure 19 is a front perspective view of the outlet assembly shown in Figure 17, with fasteners further connecting the ground strap to the outlet box;
Figure 20A is a front perspective view of an L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a fifth embodiment, the strap having a pair of spaced-apart prong members extending from a distal end of its second leg;
Figure 20B is a cross-sectional view of the strap of Figure 20A together with a box shown in fragment, the box having a ledge and the prong members of the strap extending around the ledge;
Figure 21 is a front perspective view of an L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a sixth embodiment, the strap being similar to the strap shown in Figure 20A;

Figure 22 is a front perspective view of an L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a seventh embodiment, the strap being similar to the strap shown in Figure 20A;
Figure 23 is a front perspective view of an L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to an eighth embodiment, the strap having prongs that extend adjacent to a distal end of the second leg of the strap;
Figure 24 is a front perspective view of an L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a ninth embodiment, the strap being similar to the strap shown in Figure 23;
Figure 25 is a perspective view of a further L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a tenth embodiment of the assembly, the ground strap having a first leg, a second leg, and an anchoring member disposed adjacent to the first leg and the second leg;
Figure 26 is a front perspective view of an outlet box for the outlet box assembly according to the tenth embodiment, the outlet box having an aperture configured to receive the anchoring member of the ground strap shown in Figure 25;
Figure 27 is a rear perspective view of the outlet box shown in Figure 26;
Figure 28 is a front perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figures 26 and 27, with the ground strap connected to the outlet box;
Figure 29 is a fragmentary, front perspective view of the outlet box assembly shown in Figure 28, showing greater detail of the anchoring member of the ground strap extending into the aperture of the outlet box;

Figure 30 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to an eleventh embodiment, having a connecting strap and a pair of L-shaped ground straps similar to the strap shown in Figure 25;
Figure 31 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to an twelfth embodiment, having a connecting strap and three L-shaped ground straps similar to the strap shown in Figure 25;
Figure 32 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a thirteenth embodiment, the assembly being similar to the shown in Figure 30;
Figure 33 is a front perspective view of an L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a fourteenth embodiment, the strap being similar to the strap shown in Figure 25;
Figure 34 is a perspective view of a yet further L-shaped ground strap for an outlet box assembly according to a fifteenth embodiment of the assembly, the ground strap having a first leg, a second leg, an anchoring member disposed adjacent to the first leg and the second leg, and a further anchoring member extending from a distal end of the first leg;
Figure 35 is a front perspective view of an outlet box for the outlet box assembly according to the fifteenth embodiment, the outlet box having a pair of apertures configured to receive the anchoring members of the ground strap shown in Figure 34;
Figure 36 is a rear perspective view of the outlet box shown in Figure 35;
Figure 37 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a sixteenth embodiment, the assembly including a ground strap similar to the strap shown in Figure 34; and Figure 38 is a front perspective view of an outlet box assembly according to a seventeenth embodiment, the assembly being similar to that shown in Figure 37 and including a ground strap similar to the strap shown in Figure 34.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0006] Referring to the drawings and first to Figure 1, there is shown an outlet box assembly 40. The assembly is configured for retaining and grounding an electrical termination device (not shown), such as a switch or an electrical outlet.
[0007] The assembly 40 includes a non-metallic outlet box 42, which in this example is made of plastic. The box has a closed end wall 44 with a peripheral edge 45 shown in Figure 2. Referring back to Figure 1, the box 42 has a plurality of side walls, in this example comprising a first pair of space-apart side walls 46 and 48 which face each other, and a second pair of spaced-apart side walls 50 and 52 which face each other. The side walls extend outwards from the end wall 44. The box 42 has an open end 54 opposite the closed end wall 44. The box has an interior 56 surrounded by the side walls and the end wall.

[0008] The box 42 has a pair of spaced-apart brackets 58 and 60 extending outwards from and in parallel with wall 52. Fasteners may pass through apertures 62 of the brackets and connect to a wall stud or the like. Brackets 58 and 60 are conventional and will therefore not be described in further detail.

[0009] Side walls 46 and 48 have elongate protrusions, in this example, ears 66 and 64, respectively. Ear 64 extends inwardly from wall 48, in this example, and has a distal end 68 aligned with the open end 54 of the box. Ear 66 extends inwardly from wall 48 in a like manner. As best shown in Figure 4, ear 64 has an aperture, in this example a slot 70, extending inwards from distal end 68 in this example. The ear also has a passageway 72 extending inwards from its distal end and configured to receive a conventional fastener (not shown), such as a screw. An outer bore 73, having a diameter greater than that of the passageway, is in communication with the passageway and is also disposed adjacent to the open end 54 of the box 42.

[0010] Referring to Figure 1, the box 42 has a plurality of coupling members, including a first pair of coupling members 74 and 76 adjacent to ear 64 and a second pair of coupling members 78 and 80 adjacent to ear 66. The coupling members are spaced-apart and are right-angled trapezoids in this example. The coupling members connect to and extend from the end wall 44. Each of the pairs of coupling members is substantially the same and therefore only coupling members 78 and 80, as best shown in Figures 4 and 5, will be described in detail. Referring to Figure 5, the coupling members 78 and 80 have proximal ends 82 and 83 abutting the end wall 44 of the box and distal ends 84 and 85 spaced-apart from their proximal ends. The coupling members 78 and 80 each have inwardly sloped edges 86 and 88, respectively, which face each other. The coupling members at their proximal ends are spaced-apart by a distance di and the coupling members are spaced-apart by a distance d2 at their distal ends 84 and 85, with distance d1 being smaller than distance d2. A space 90 is formed between the edges 86 and 88 of the coupling members 78 and 80. Referring to Figure 1, the coupling members 78 and 80 are also connected to and are supported by the side wall 46 via flanges, as shown by flange 91 for member 78.
[00111 Box 42 has an elevated portion 92 that is centrally disposed upon and which extends outwards from the end wall 44. Portion 92 is aligned with the coupling members 74, 76, 78 and 80 in this example. A pair of threaded apertures, as shown by aperture 93 in Figure 4, extends through portion 92 of end wall 44.
100121 Referring back to Figure 1, the box 42 has a plurality of resilient access tabs, as shown by access tab 94, interposed on either side of the ears 64 and 66, in this example. The access tabs are resilient and are configured to bend inwards towards the interior 56 of the box so as to selectively enable a grounding or electrical wire, such as wire 183 for box 42.3 shown in Figure 17, to pass therethrough and into the box. The access tabs are substantially identical and therefore only tab 94 will be described in detail.
Referring back to Figure 1, access tab 94 has a proximal end 96 connected to and integral with side wall 46. The access tab extends from its proximal end towards the interior 56 of the box and terminates at a distal end 98 which is spaced-apart from the proximal end 96.
The distal end of the access tab 94 is inwardly spaced-apart from the peripheral edge 45 of the end wall 44, extending within interior 56 of the box, as shown with reference to Figures 1 and 2.
[0013] Referring to Figure 1, the assembly 40 includes an L-shaped ground strap 100 connectable to the outlet box 42 and operatively connectable to the termination device (not shown). As best shown in Figure 3, the ground strap has a first leg 102 configured to abut the end wall 44 of the box shown in Figure 1. The ground strap 100 has a second leg 104 perpendicular to leg 102 and configured to abut the side wall 48 and, in particular, ear 64 of the box 42 shown in Figure 1. The second leg is integral with the first leg in this example. As seen in Figure 3, the first leg 102 has a distal end 106 spaced-apart from the second leg. The first leg also has a pair of apertures 108 and 109 spaced-apart from the second leg 104 and shaped to receive fasteners, such as screw 118 shown in Figure 6.
[0014] Referring back to Figure 3, the second leg 104 has a distal end 110 spaced-apart from the first leg 102. An aperture 111 extends through distal end 110.
A circular protrusion 113 extends downwards from the distal end towards the first leg 102. This protrusion is best shown in Figure 25 as protrusion 113.9 for strap 100.9, which shows another embodiment of the strap. Protrusion 113 is configured to snugly fit within and abut outer bore 73 shown in Figure 4, and provides some means for connecting the strap to the box. Referring back to Figure 1, the distal end 110 of the second leg 104 abuts the distal end 68 of ear 64.
[0015] As seen in Figure 3, the ground strap 100 has an anchoring member connected to and extending downwards from the distal end 110 of the second leg 104.
The anchoring member in this example has an elongate portion 114 and an enlarged end portion 116. The anchoring member 112 is configured to fit within the slot 70 of the box 42 shown in Figure 1. The second leg 104 of the ground strap 100 is connected and anchored to the box 42 thereby. However, anchoring member 112 is not strictly required for connecting and anchoring the ground strap 100 to the box 42.
[0016] As seen in Figures 3 and 5, leg 102 of the ground strap 100 has a width w.
Referring to Figure 5, the sloped edges 86 and 88 of the coupling members 78 and 80, respectively, are spaced-apart by a distance d1 at their proximal ends 82 and 83. Distance d1 is equal to less than the width w of the ground strap. The sloped edges are spaced-apart by a distance d2 at the distal ends 84 and 85 of the coupling members 78 and 80, respectively. Distance d2 is equal to greater than the width w of the ground strap 100.
Referring to Figure 1, the first leg 102 of the ground strap is disposed between the coupling members 74, 76, 78, and 80 at locations adjacent to the proximal ends 82 and 83 of the coupling members. The coupling members, as best shown by coupling members 78 and 80 in Figure 5, are thus, advantageously, configured to press-fit with and abut the first leg 102 of the ground strap 100 for connecting the ground strap to the box 42 thereby. The coupling members may be referred to as a means for connecting the ground strap to the outlet box. The anchoring member 112 and slot 70 seen in Figure 1 are also means for connecting the ground strap to the outlet box.
[0017] Referring to Figure 6, screws 118 are further disposable through the apertures 108 and 109 of the first leg 102 of the strap 100 shown in Figure 1 and through apertures 93 of the box 42, as shown in Figure 4, for further connecting the strap 100 to the box.
[0018] Figures 7 to 14 show an outlet box assembly 40.1 according to a second embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6 with the addition of ".1". The assembly 40.1 is similar to assembly 40 shown in Figures 1 to 6 with the following exceptions.
[0019] The assembly 40.1 is configured to receive and ground two electrical termination devices such as switches or electrical outlets (not shown). The assembly 40.1 includes a pair of spaced-apart L-shaped ground straps 100.1 and 120. Ground strap 120 has a first leg 122 abutting end wall 44.1 of the box 42.1 and a second leg 124 abutting side wall 46.1 of the box. Ground strap 120 is substantially the same in parts and functions as strap 100.1. Box 42.1 includes a further pair of ears 126 and 127 and a further pair of coupling members 128 and 130. Ear 126 and coupling members 128 and 130 are substantially the same as ear 64.1 and coupling members 74.1 and 76.1.
Only coupling members 74.1 and 76.1 will therefore be described in detail.
[0020] Referring to Figures 11 and 13, the coupling members 74.1 and 76.1 have a pair of sloped, elongate protrusions 132 and 134, respectively, extending from the proximal ends 82.1 and 83.1 of the coupling members towards the distal ends 84.1 and 85.1 of the coupling members. The protrusions also extend towards each other into space 90.1. The elongate protrusions 132 and 134 are deformable. The first leg 102.1 of the ground strap 100.1 is configured to break through the elongate protrusions, when the leg is pushed towards the distal ends 82.1 and 83.1 of the coupling members 74.1 and 76.1, respectively. The protrusions 132 and 134 are deformed thereby for frictionally and mechanically connecting the ground strap 100.1 to the box 42.1.
[0021] The coupling members 74.1 and 76.1 have a pair of alignment members and 140, respectively, which are triangular in shape, as best shown in Figure 11, and which extend into space 90.1 and along the flanges, such as flange 91.1. The alignment members are interposed between the protrusions 132 and 134, respectively, and ear 64.1.
Referring to Figure 13, the alignment members 138 and 140 act to align the first leg 102.1 of the strap, in this example, within the coupling members 74.1 and 76.1. The alignment members are thus spaced to allow the first leg of the strap to freely pass therebetween. Elongate protrusions 132 and 134 have portions, as shown by portion 136 in Figure 133, which extend inwardly towards each other and relative to the alignment members 138 and 140. Portions 136 of the elongate protrusions are configured to abut the strap.
[0022] As seen in Figure 11, the box 42.1 has a further elevated portion extending from wall 44.1. Portion 142 is spaced-apart from and substantially identical to elevated portion 92.1. Elevated portion 92.1 aligns with coupling members 74.1 and 76.1, and elevated portion 142 aligns with coupling members 128 and 130.
[0023] The box 42.1 has a first pair of spaced-apart hook-shaped members 144 and 146 centrally disposed upon and extending outwards from elevated portion 92.1 of the box 42.1 and end wall 44.1. The box also has a second pair of spaced-apart hook-shaped members 148 and 150 extending from elevated portion 142. As shown in Figure 7, the hook-shaped members 144 and 146, and 148 and 150, are configured to receive and retain respective first legs 102.1 and 122, of the ground straps 100.1 and 120. In particular, the hook-shaped members, as shown by members 144 and 146, are configured to connect with the distal ends of the first legs of the ground straps, as shown by distal end 106.1 of leg 102.1. Each of the pairs of hook-shaped members are substantially the same in parts and functions and therefore only members 144 and 146 will be described in detail. Referring to Figure 12, hook-shaped members 144 and 146 have elongate portions 147 and 149 that are resilient and bendable outwards for receiving the first leg of the ground strap. A gap 152 is formed between the hook-shaped members. The hook-shaped members 144 and 146 have inwardly facing spaced-apart catches 154 and 156, respectively, which extend towards gap 152. The catches are triangular in cross-section in this example, with sloped top surfaces, as shown by surface 157 for catch 154 in Figure 12. The space within the gap 152 between the catches and portion 92.1 is equal to or greater in cross-section than the width of the strap for readily receiving the strap therewithin.
[0024] As shown in Figure 12, the hook-shaped members 144 and 146 have a retracted position, shown by numeral 158, in which the catches are spaced-apart at a distance d3 less than that of the width of the ground strap and an extended position, shown in ghost lines and numeral 160, in which the catches 154 and 156 are spaced-apart by a distance d4 equal to or greater than the width of the ground strap.
Referring to Figure 7, the distal end 106.1 of the strap 100.1 thus connects to the box 42.1 by pushing the strap past the sloped top surfaces 157 of the catches 154 and 156, causing the catches to bend outwards until the hook-shaped members are in the extended position 160.
The strap then is able to move between and past the catches. The hook-shaped members 144 and 146 return to the retracted position 158 and retain the strap in place.
100251 The assembly 40.1 includes a connecting strap 162. The connecting strap is disposed along the end wall 44.1 of the box 42.1. The connecting strap 162 is configured to connect together ground straps 100.1 and 120. Referring to Figure 9, the strap 162 has a pair of rectangular ends 164 and 166, each having an aperture, as shown by aperture 168 for end 166. An elongate strip 170 connects ends 164 and 166 together, with the ends being slightly raised relative to the strip. As shown in Figure 10, ends 164 and 166 are configured to overlay and abut with elevated portions 142 and 92.1, respectively, of the wall 44.1 and strip 170 is configured to overly and abut end wall 44.1 between the raised portions. The connecting strap 162 is shaped such that the apertures 168 align with the apertures 93.1 extending through end wall 44.1 of the box shown in Figure 11.
Spaced-apart tabs, as shown by tabs 172 and 174 for end 166, and similar tabs for end 164, extend upwards from the elevated portions 92.1 and 142 of the box. The tabs act to hold the ends of the strap 162. Ends 164 and 166 so configured are disposed adjacent to the hook-shaped members, as shown by hook-shaped members 144 and 146 for end 166 and similar hook-shaped members on elevated portions 142 for end 164.
[0026] Referring to Figures 7 and 10, the ground straps 100.1 and 120 overlay the ends 166 and 166 of the connecting strap 162, with the apertures 108.1 of the ground straps aligning with the apertures 168 and 93.1 of the connecting strap and box, respectively.
[0027] As shown in Figure 14, a pair of fasteners, screws 176 and 178 in this example, pass through the above mentioned apertures, and threadably connect and link together the connecting strap 162 and the ground straps 100.1 and 120.1, respectively.
[0028] The connecting strap 162 and L-shaped ground straps 100.1 and 120 are thus configured to intersect with screws extending through both straps at their points of intersection for electrically connecting the straps 100.1, 120 and 162 together. This may result in an outlet box assembly that is more reliable in its ground connection compared to outlet boxes of the known prior art. Situating the screws at the point of intersection between the L-shaped straps and connecting straps may also provide the advantage of enabling the assembly 40.1 to requiring fewer additional coupling or anchoring members.
In short, the box 42.1 as herein described, with its screws intersecting the connecting straps and L-shaped straps, may be more robust and easier to assemble at less cost compared to prior art devices. In this embodiment the means for connecting the straps to the box thus further includes the hook-shaped members 144, 146, 148 and 150 and also the screws 176 and 178 so situated.
[0029] As seen in Figure 10, box 42.1 includes a pair of inner, spaced-apart protrusions 171 and 173 that extend from wall 52.1, in this example, towards interior 56.1 of the box. The protrusions are generally half-round in section, and have sloped, top surfaces 175 and 177. The protrusions 171 and 173 extend from bottom 44.1 of the box to half way up wall 52.1 in this example. A pair of apertures 179 and 181 extend through the top surfaces 175 and 177, respectively, and are configured to receive fasteners, which may pass therethrough for further connecting the box to a wall stud for example. There are a pair of slot-shaped recesses, as shown by slot-shaped recess 185 in Figure 8, on the other side of wall 52.1 in communication with apertures 179 and 181, respectively. The slot-shaped recesses extend from adjacent to the apertures to adjacent to bottom 44.1 of the box, and each recess is configured to enable a respective fastener to pass therethrough and into the stud.
[0030] Figures 15 and 16 show an outlet box assembly 40.2 according to a third embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 14 with decimal extension ".2" replacing decimal extension ".1"
and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 40.2 is substantially the same as assembly 40.1 shown in Figures 7 to 14 with the exception that assembly 40.2 is configured to receive and ground three electrical termination devices (not shown). The assembly accordingly has three ground straps 100.2, 120.2, and 180 and a connecting strap 162.2 configured to extend between and electrically connect together each of the ground straps.
[0031] Figures 17 to 19 show an outlet box assembly 40.3 according to a fourth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6 with the addition of ".3". Assembly 40.3 is similar to assembly 40 shown in Figures 1 to 6 with one exception being that that the box has side walls 46.3, 48.3, 50.3, and 52.3 that form a generally round, cylindrical shape. Also, assembly 40.3 does not have coupling members or hook-shaped members configured to connect strap 100.3 to the box 42.3. Rather, as seen in Figure 19, strap 100.3 is connected to the box 42.3 solely via screws 118.3 and anchoring member 112.3 disposed within slot 70.3.
[0032] Referring to Figure 17, the box includes a plurality of spaced-apart, toothed ridges, as shown by ridge 182. The ridges extend upwards from the end wall 44.3 of the box 42.3 adjacent each of the access tabs. The ridges 182 are disposed adjacent to the peripheral edge 45.3, shown in Figure 18, of the end wall 44.3. Referring back to Figure 17, the toothed ridges 182 are configured to engage with grounding or electrical wire 183 so disposed through the access tab. This structure, with its inwardly extending access tabs 94.3 and toothed ridges disposed adjacent to the peripheral edge 45.3, may better promote retention of the wire 183, thereby inhibiting dislodging of the wire's positioning within the box.
[0033] Figures 20A and 20B show an L-shaped ground strap 100.4 for an outlet box assembly 40.4 according to a fifth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.4 and assembly 40.4 of the embodiment shown in Figures 7 to 14 with the decimal extension ".4" replacing decimal extension ".1" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. Strap 100.4 and assembly 40.4 are substantially similar to strap 100.1 and assembly 40.1 shown in Figures 7 to 14 with the exception that, instead of an anchoring member, the means for connecting the strap to the box includes a pair of spaced-apart prong members 192 and 194 connected adjacent to and extending outwards from the distal end 110.4 of the second leg 104.4 of the ground strap. The prong members are generally triangular in shape and have pointed ends extending downwards towards the closed end wall of the box. The prong members 192 and 194 connect to the box for connecting ground strap to the box thereby. This may be via placing the prong members into an aperture adjacent to the side wall of the box, such as side wall 48 and slot 70 shown in Figure 1.
Alternatively, this may be by disposing the prong members 192 and 194 against and along a side wall adjacent to the open end of the box, such as side wall 48 shown in Figure 1.
In this manner, the prong members may abut and engage with portions of the box adjacent to the open end. The prong members 192 and 194 so disposed may abut and frictionally engage with portions of the box adjacent to the side wall of the box, with the strap connecting to the box thereby. As a yet further alternative, the box may have ledges or tabs 197 seen in Figure 20B adjacent to its open end 54.4 onto which the prong members, as shown by prong member 194, may be folded for connecting the strap 100.4 to the box 42.4.
[0034] Figure 21 shows an L-shaped ground strap 100.5 for an outlet box assembly 40.5 according to a sixth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.4 of the embodiment shown in Figure 20A with the decimal extension ".5" replacing decimal extension ".4" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. In this case, prong members 192.5 and 194.5 have pointed ends, as shown by end 196 for prong 192.5. Also, the prong members are angled relative to second leg 104.5 and may be formed, for example, by bending downwards exterior corners of the distal end 110.5 of the second leg 104.5 of the strap.
100351 Figure 22 shows an L-shaped ground strap 100.6 for an outlet box assembly 40.6 according to a seventh embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.4 of the embodiment shown in Figure 20A with the decimal extension ".6" replacing decimal extension ".4" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. In this case, prong members 192.6 and 194.6 are generally rectangular in shape. Strap 100.6 has a pair of spaced-apart edges 198 and 200, and the prong members extend downwards from the edges for extending within apertures of the box, in one example. Alternatively, the prong members may abut and frictionally engage with surrounding edges of an ear such as, for example, ear 64 shown in Figure 1.
Figure 23 shows an L-shaped ground strap 100.7 for an outlet box assembly 40.7 according to an eighth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.4 of the embodiment shown in Figure 20A with the decimal extension ".7" replacing decimal extension ".4" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. In this case, the prong members 192.7 and 194.7 are elongate strips 202 and 204 cut-out from the second leg 104.7 of the ground strap 100.7. The elongate strips 202 and 204 are generally triangular in shape in this example. Each of the elongate strips has a pointed end, as shown by end 206 for strip 202, and is bent outwards perpendicular to the rest of the second leg 104.7. In this example, the strips 202 and 204 are cut from portions of the second leg disposed below the distal end 110.7 of the second leg and the strips are bent upwards. The prong members may be inserted within apertures of the box, or bent into ledges, for example, as described above, for securing the strap and, in particular, the second leg 104.7 of the ground strap 100.7 to the box.
[0036] Figure 24 shows an L-shaped ground strap 100.8 for an outlet box assembly 40.8 according to a ninth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.7 of the embodiment shown in Figure 23 with the decimal extension ".8" replacing decimal extension ".7" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. In this case, elongate strip 202.8 is cut-out from a portion of the second leg 104.8 disposed below the distal end 110.8 of the second leg and elongate strip 204.8 is cut-out from a portion of the second leg disposed adjacent to the distal end of the second leg. As before, the prong members may be inserted within apertures of the box, or bent into ledges of the box, for example, as described above, for securing the strap and, in particular, the second leg 104.8 of the ground strap 100.8 to the box.
[0037] Figures 25 to 29 show an outlet box assembly 40.9 according to a tenth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6 with the addition of ".9". Assembly 40.9 is similar to assembly 40 shown in Figures 1 to 6 with one exception being that the means for connecting the strap to the box includes an outwardly projecting anchoring member 184 extending from the ground strap 100.9 adjacent to the first leg 102.9 of the ground strap and the second leg 104.9 of the ground strap.
100381 The anchoring member is a generally rectangular portion 186 of the ground strap cut-out from the second leg 104.9 of the ground strap in this example.
The rectangular portion is bent outwards relative to the rest of the second leg such that it extends in parallel with the second leg in this example. The anchoring member extends adjacent and perpendicular to the first leg 102.9 of the strap in this example. The anchoring member has serrated peripheral edges 188.
10039] Referring to Figure 26, the box 42.9 does not have coupling members or hook-shaped members configured to connect the strap to the box nor does the box have an elevated portion extending from its end wall 44.9. Rather, as seen in Figure 26 and 27, the box has a slot-like aperture 190 in this example extending through end wall 44.9 of the box. The aperture is disposed adjacent to the end wall and ear 64.9 in this example.
Aperture 190 is also a part of the means for connecting the strap to the box.
100401 Referring to Figures 28 and 29, the anchoring member 184 is disposable through the aperture of the box 42.9 for connecting the strap 100.9 to the box. As shown in Figure 28, distal end 106.9 of the first leg 102.9 of the strap 100.9 abuts ear 66.9, in this example, when the strap is so connected to the box. The strap may also connect to the box via screws as described for the embodiment of Figures 1 to 6 and as, for example, shown by screw 118 in Figure 6. Referring to Figures 25 and 29, the serrated peripheral edges 188 of the anchoring member 184 engage with portions of the box 42.9 surrounding the aperture 190 of the box and thus further facilitates connection of the strap to the box. Assembly 40.9 as herein described thus provides the advantage of providing a cost-effective means for connecting the strap to the box that may require relatively few manufacturing steps and costs.
[0041] Figure 30 shows an outlet box assembly 40.10 according to an eleventh embodiment. Like parts of the box 42.10 have like numbers and functions as the box 42.1 shown in Figures 7 to 14 with decimal extension ".10" replacing decimal extension ".1"
and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension.
Assembly 40.10 is substantially the same as assembly 40.1 shown in Figures 7 to 14 with the exception that it does not include the elevated portions 92.1 and 142 nor does the assembly include the slots 70.1 shown in Figure 7. Furthermore, box 42.10 does not include coupling members, such as coupling members which abut and press-fit with the straps 100.10 and 120.10, such as coupling members 74.1 and 76.1 for box 42.1 in Figure 7.
[0042] Box 42.10 has an aperture 190.10 for strap 100.10 that is substantially similar to aperture 190 shown in Figures 28 and 29 for box 42.9, and the box has a substantially similar aperture for strap 120.10. The assembly 40.10 has a pair of ground straps 100.10 and 120.10 each of which is substantially the same as ground strap 100.9 shown in Figure 25, with the anchor members including the additional decimal extension ".10", as shown by anchor member 184.10 for strap 100.10. Connecting member 162.10 is flat in this example and thus simpler to manufacture, with ends 164.10 and 166.10 and elongate strip 170.10 aligning and extending along end wall 44.10.
[0043] Figure 31 shows an outlet box assembly 40.11 according to a twelfth embodiment. Like parts of the box 42.11 have like numbers and functions as the box 42.10 shown in Figure 30 with decimal extension ".11" replacing decimal extension ".10"
and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension.
Assembly 40.11 is substantially the same as assembly 40.10 shown in Figure 30 with the exception that it is adapted for three electrical termination devices and thus has a connecting member 162.11 that connects together three, spaced-apart ground straps.
[0044] Figure 32 shows an outlet box assembly 40.12 according to a thirteenth embodiment. Like parts of the box 42.12 have like numbers and functions as the box 42.10 shown in Figure 30 with decimal extension ".12" replacing decimal extension ".10"
and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension.
Assembly 40.12 is substantially the same as assembly 40.10 shown in Figure 30 with the exception that the hook-shaped members are offset with respect to each other. Hook-shaped members 144.12 and 146.12 are configured such that end 166.12 of connecting strap 162.12 is between members 144.12 and 146.12 and, likewise, hook-shaped members 148.12 and 150.12 are configured such that end 164.12 of strap 162.12 is between members 148.12 and 150.12. The hook-shaped members situate and retain the position of the connecting strap thereby, while also, at the same time, situating and retaining ground straps 104.12 and 120.12 in place.
[0045] In particular, each of the ends of the connecting strap has a pair of first edges facing its corresponding ground strap, as shown by edges 187 and 189 for end 164.12 facing the strap 120.12. Each of the ends of the connecting strap 162.12 has a pair of second edges spaced-apart from and aligned with its corresponding ground strap, as shown by edges 193 and 195 aligning with strap 120.12. Hook-shaped members 148.12 and 150.12 abut edges 187 and 189, respectively, and also align with and are positioned adjacent to the pair of second edges 193 and 195 in this example, for situating and retaining strap 162.12 in place, as well as for further retaining strap 120.12 in place. The other hook-shaped members are positioned in a like manner.
[0046] Thus, the hook-shaped members 148.12 and 150.12 abut rectangular end 164.12 of connecting strap 120.12 adjacent to opposing corners 211 and 213 of end 164.12 and hook-shaped members 144.12 and 146.12 abut rectangular end 166.12 of connecting strap 120.12 adjacent to opposing corners 215 and 217 of end 166.12.
[0047] Figure 33 shows an L-shaped ground strap 100.13 for an outlet box assembly 40.13 according to a fourteenth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.9 and assembly 40.9 of the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the decimal extension ".13" replacing decimal extension ".9" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. Strap 100.13 and assembly 40.13 are substantially similar to strap 100.9 and assembly 40.9 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the exception that anchoring member 184.13 has a smooth exterior edge 191 rather than the serrated peripheral edges 188 shown in Figure 25.

100481 Figures 34 to 36 show an outlet box assembly 40.14 according to a fifteenth embodiment. Like parts have like numbers and functions as the ground strap 100.9 and assembly 40.9 of the embodiment shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the decimal extension ".14" replacing decimal extension ".9" and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. Strap 100.14 and assembly 40.14 are substantially similar to strap 100.9 and assembly 40.9 shown in Figures 25 to 29 with the exception that the means for connecting the strap to the box includes a further anchoring member extending downwards from the distal end 106.14 of the first leg 102.14 of the strap 100.14. Anchoring member 208 is similar in shape to anchoring member 112 shown in Figure 3 in this example. Referring to Figures 35 and 36, box 42.14 has a further aperture 210 extending through end wall 44.14 adjacent to ear 64.14 in this example.
Anchoring member 208 is configured to extend through aperture 210 and abut portions of the box surrounding the aperture. Aperture 210 thus is also a part of the means for connecting the strap to the box. Anchoring member 208 enables distal end 106.14 of the strap 100.14 to connect to box 42.14 when leg 102.14 overlays and abuts end wall 44.14, thereby further securing the strap to the box. As shown in Figure 35, assembly 40.14 further includes a gasket 209 extending about the side walls of the box 42.14 adjacent to the open end 54.14 of the box. Any of the assemblies as herein described may also include such gaskets.
[0049] Figure 37 shows an outlet box assembly 40.15 according to a sixteenth embodiment. Like parts of the box 42.15 have like numbers and functions as the assembly 40.12 shown in Figure 32 and assembly 40.14 shown in Figure 34 to 36, with decimal extension ".15" replacing decimal extension ".12" and ".14", respectively, and being added to numerals not previously having a decimal extension. Assembly 40.15 is substantially the same as assembly 40.14 shown in Figure 32 adapted to include the features of assembly 40.12 shown in Figures 34 to 26, with the exception that the means for connecting the straps to the box includes a pair of stops, in this example in the form of raised angled L-shaped bracket members 212 and 214. The bracket members extend outwards from end wall 44.15 and are positioned to situate connecting strap 162.15.
Bracket member 212 abuts both edge 193.15 and edge 187.15 of end 164.15 of the connecting strap. Bracket member 214 likewise situates adjacent edges of end 166.15 of the connecting strap 162.15. Thus, bracket member 212 abuts corner 213.15 of rectangular end 164.15 of the connecting strap and bracket member 214 abuts corner 215.15 of rectangular end 166.15 of the connecting strap.
[0050] Figure 38 shows an assembly 40.16 substantially the same as assembly 40.15 of Figure 37, with the like parts having like numbers and functions as the assembly shown in Figure 37, with decimal extension ".16" replacing ".15" and being added to numerals not previously having decimal extensions. Figure 38 is configured for three electrical termination devices. Connecting strap 162.16 has a central portion situated between ends 164.16 and 166.16 and aligning with strap 120.16. Box 42.16 includes a central pair of opposing bracket members 216 and 218 configured to situate and snugly abut with central portion 220 of connecting strap 162.16. As seen in Figure 38, portion 220 is rectangular in this example and bracket members 216 and 218 abut opposing ones of its corners.
[0051] It will be appreciated that yet more variations are possible within the scope of the invention described herein. For example, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the assembly 40.11 shown in Figure 31 for three electrical termination devices may be readily adapted to include offset hook-shaped members substantially similar to those shown in Figure 32 for situating its connecting strap and ground straps.
[0052] Also, it will be understood by someone skilled in the art that many of the details provided above are by way of example only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention which is to be determined with reference to at least the following claims.

Claims

1. An outlet box assembly for retaining and grounding an electrical termination device, the assembly comprising:
an outlet box having a closed end wall, a side wall extending outwards from the end wall, a first aperture and a second aperture; and an L-shaped ground strap operatively connectable to the termination device, the ground strap having a first leg abutting the end wall, a second leg abutting the side wall, an outwardly projecting first anchoring member extending from the ground strap, the first anchoring member being adjacent to both the first leg of the ground strap and the second leg of the ground strap and being positionable through the first aperture of the box for connecting the strap to the box, and a second anchoring member extending outwards from the first leg, the second anchoring member being positionable through the second aperture of the box for further connecting the strap to the box.

2. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein at least one of the anchoring members has a serrated peripheral edge, said serrated peripheral edge engaging with portions of the box surrounding one of said apertures of the box.

3. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein at least one of the anchoring members is a generally rectangular portion of the ground strap cut-out from one of the first leg of the ground strap and the second leg of the ground strap, the rectangular portion being bent outwards relative to the rest of said one of the first leg of the ground strap and the second leg of the ground strap.

4. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first aperture of the box extends through the end wall of the box and is disposed adjacent to said side wall.

5. The assembly as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first leg of the ground strap has a distal end spaced-apart from the second leg of the ground strap, and the second anchoring member extends outwards from said distal end.

6. The assembly as claimed in claim 5, wherein the box has a further side wall and wherein the second aperture of the box extends through the end wall and is disposed adjacent to said further side wall.

7. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first anchoring member is located adjacent to an intersection of the first and second legs of the ground strap.

8. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the box includes a pair of spaced-apart hook-shaped members centrally disposed upon and extending outwards from the end wall of the box, the hook-shaped members being configured to receive and retain the first leg of the ground strap.

9. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second leg of the ground strap has a distal end, and the assembly further includes a pair of spaced-apart prong members extending outwards from the distal end of the second leg of the ground strap, the prong members connecting to the box for connecting ground strap to the box thereby.

10. The assembly as claimed in any one of claim 9, wherein the prong members are configured to abut and frictionally engage with portions of the box adjacent to the side wall of the box.

11. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein the prong members are elongate strips cut-out from the second leg of the ground strap, the elongate strips being bent outwards relative to the rest of the second leg.

12. The assembly as claimed in claim 9, wherein the box has an open end upon which the distal end of the second leg of the ground strap abuts and wherein the prong members abut and engage with portions of the box adjacent to said open end.

13. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 7, further including a pair of coupling members connected to and extending from said end wall of the box, the coupling members having edges inwardly sloped towards the end wall and being configured to press-fit with and abut the first leg of the ground strap for connecting the ground strap to the box.

14. The assembly as claimed in claim 13 wherein the coupling members have proximal ends abutting said end wall of the box and distal ends spaced-apart from said proximal ends, the sloped edges of the coupling members at the proximal ends of the coupling members being spaced-apart by a distance less than the width of the ground strap, and the sloped edges of the coupling members at the distal ends of the coupling members being spaced-apart by a distance equal to greater than the width of the ground strap, the first leg of the ground strap being disposed between the coupling members at a location adjacent to the proximal ends of the coupling members.

15. The assembly as claimed in claim 13, wherein a space is formed between the coupling members, and wherein the coupling members have proximal ends abutting said end wall of the box, distal ends spaced-apart from the proximal ends, and a pair of sloped, elongate protrusions extending from said proximal ends towards said distal ends and extending into said space, the elongate protrusions being deformable, and the ground strap being configured to press-fit with said elongate protrusions.

16. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, further including a further ground strap, a connecting strap disposed along the end wall and connecting together the ground straps, and a pair of fasteners, each intersecting with and connecting together the connecting strap with a respective one of the grounds straps.

17. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 8, further including a further ground strap, a connecting strap disposed along the end wall and connecting together the ground straps, and a plurality of stops, the stops being configured to situate and retain the connecting strap in place.

18. The assembly as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 17 wherein the anchoring members are integrally connected to and formed with the ground strap.