CA2996012A1 - An enclosure for a connection formed between coupled connectors - Google Patents

Abstract

An enclosure for a connection formed between coupled connectors, the enclosure comprising an elongate housing having an internal volume configured for receiving the coupled connectors therein, and at least one conduit member in communication with the internal volume, the at least one conduit member configured for receiving a lead, cable or tube of at least one of the coupled connectors.

Description

2 PCT/AU2015/050475 AN ENCLOSURE FOR A CONNECTION FORMED BETWEEN COUPLED
CONNECTORS
Field of the Invention [0001] The present invention relates to protective enclosures and in particular to an enclosure for a connection formed between coupled connectors.
[0002] The invention has been developed primarily for use in protecting an electrical connection formed between coupled connectors from moisture and will be described hereinafter with reference to this application. However, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to this particular field of use.
Background of the Invention

[0003] The use of electrically powered devices in areas where water may pose a problem raises several safety concerns, in particular, the possibility of an electrocution hazard. Such a problem may arise when powered devices are used outdoors during wet conditions or in a household, commercial or industrial setting where there is a risk of exposure to water.

[0004] The likelihood of an electrocution hazard occurring can further be raised in the event that the coupled connectors forming the electrical connection between the source of mains electricity and the powered device are accidentally partially or fully disconnected during use, resulting in the live conducting elements in the connectors being exposed.

[0005] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art.
Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

Object of the Invention

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide an enclosure for a connection formed between coupled connectors, which will overcome or ameliorate at least some of the deficiencies of the prior art, or to at least provide an alternative.
Summary of the Invention

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an enclosure for a connection formed between coupled connectors, the enclosure comprising: an elongate housing having an internal volume configured for receiving the coupled connectors therein; and at least one conduit member in communication with the internal volume, the at least one conduit member configured for receiving a lead, cable or tube of at least one of the coupled connectors.

[0008] Preferably, the at least one conduit member is smaller in dimension than the at least one coupled connector to prevent the at least one coupled connector passing through the at least one conduit member.

[0009] Preferably, the at least one conduit member extends from an external surface of the housing.

[0010] Preferably, the enclosure comprises two conduit members, each conduit member extending from an opposing side portion of the housing.

[0011] Preferably, the housing comprises an open end and a lid adapted to sealingly engage the open end for at least partially sealing the housing.

[0012] Preferably, the housing has a generally tapered cylindrical shape.

[0013] Preferably, the open end is located at a base portion of the tapered cylinder.
Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

[0014] Preferably, the lid comprises a skirt portion, the open end of the housing and the skirt portion each comprising a complementary threaded portion.

[0015] Preferably, the enclosure further comprises sealing means for providing a sealing engagement between the open end of the housing and the lid.

[0016] Preferably, the lid comprises a mating portion disposed around a periphery thereof, the sealing means comprising at least one gasket member for lining the mating portion of the lid.

[0017] Preferably, the lid comprises at least one aperture for receiving the lead, cable or tube of at least one of the coupled connectors therethough.

[0018] Preferably, the at least one aperture is smaller in dimension than the at least one coupled connector to prevent the at least one coupled connector passing through the at least one aperture when the lid is sealingly engaged with the open end of the housing.

[0019] Preferably, the housing comprises at least one flange extending from an upper portion thereof, the at least one upper flange defining mounting means for mounting the enclosure to a support structure.

[0020] Preferably, the housing further comprises at least one flange extending from a side portion thereof, the at least one upper flange and the at least one side flange defining the mounting means.

[0021] Preferably, the upper portion of the housing comprises an opening for receiving at least a portion of an elongate support device adapted for engaging the ground.

[0022] Preferably, the housing is adapted to receive at least a portion of a housing of another enclosure at the open end thereof.
Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

[0023] Preferably, the housing comprises an external surface adapted for receiving indicia thereon.

[0024] Preferably, the housing comprises at least one transparent or translucent portion such that the connection within the housing is visible from outside the housing.

[0025] Preferably, the enclosure further comprises means for draining a fluid from the internal volume of the housing.

[0026] Preferably, the draining means comprises at least one drainage aperture in the housing at a base portion thereof and/or in a lid.

[0027] Preferably, the housing comprises first and second housing portions adapted for coupling to each other to allow the housing to transition between an open configuration for receiving the coupled connectors within the internal volume of the housing and a closed configuration for at least partially sealing the coupled connectors within the internal volume of the housing.

[0028] Preferably, the at least one conduit member is smaller in dimension than the at least one coupled connector to prevent the at least one coupled connector passing through the at least one conduit member when the housing is in the closed configuration.

[0029] Preferably, the enclosure further comprises sealing means for providing a sealing engagement between the first and second housing portions and the lid when the housing is in the closed configuration.

[0030] Preferably, the enclosure further comprises locking means for securing the first and second housing portions to one another when the housing is in the closed configuration.

[0031] Preferably, the base portion defines a flared opening at the open end of the housing to allow the enclosure to stand on the ground in a generally upright Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

orientation.

[0032] Preferably, the flared opening is adapted to receive the lid substantially therein to sealingly engage the open end.

[0033] Preferably, the housing comprising at least one support rib for strengthening the housing.

[0034] Preferably, the at least one support rib is disposed around a periphery of the housing.

[0035] Other features and/or aspects of the invention are also disclosed herein.
Brief Descriotion of the Drawinas

[0036] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0037] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an enclosure for an electrical connection formed between coupled connectors in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0038] Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of the enclosure of Fig. 1 fitted with a lid;

[0039] Fig. 3 shows (i) a front view of the enclosure of Fig. 2 and (ii) a cross sectional view of the enclosure of Fig. 3(i) taken along B - B;

[0040] Fig. 4 shows (i) a top view, (ii) a side view, and (iii) a bottom view of the lid of Fig. 2;

[0041] Fig. 5 shows the cross sectional view of the enclosure of Fig. 3(i) complete with a pair of electrical connections formed between corresponding Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

pairs of coupled connectors; and

[0042] Fig. 6 shows (i) a side view, and (ii) a front view of the enclosure of Fig. 1 mounted to a support device (iii) for elevating the enclosure above the ground;

[0043] Fig. 7 shows (i) a front view, and (ii) a side view of a plurality of enclosures of Fig. 1 in a stacking arrangement;

[0044] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of an enclosure for an electrical connection formed between coupled connectors in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Fig. 9 shows (i) a front view, (ii) a side view, and (iii) a bottom view (fitted with lid) of the enclosure of Fig. 8; and

[0046] Fig. 10 shows perspective views of the enclosure of Fig. 8 (i) fitted with a lid and (ii) without a lid.
Detailed Descriotion of Soecific Embodiments

[0047] It should be noted in the following description that like or the same reference numerals in different embodiments denote the same or similar features.

[0048] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described in terms of an enclosure 10 provided for shielding an electrical connection formed between coupled connectors (not shown) from exposure to the weather, and in particular, exposure to water.

[0049] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the enclosure 10 is provided in the form of an elongate housing 20 having a wall 25 that defines a generally cylindrical hollow body that is capped at an upper portion 30 and it tapers from a base portion 40 to the upper portion 30. Located at the base portion 40 of the Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

housing 20 is an open end 50 that extends into an internal volume 60 of the housing 20 into which coupled connectors of an electrical connection can be received.

[0050] The wall 25 further defines two elongate hollow conduits 70, 80 that project outwardly from a corresponding side portion of the generally tapered cylindrical shape of the housing 20. The hollow conduits 70, 80 extend substantially along a length of the housing 20 from a respective shoulder portion 90A, 90B, located a short distance down from the upper portion 30, to the base portion 40. The two conduits 70, 80 each have an internal volume (not shown) that is accessible at the base portion 40 of the housing 20 from a respective open end 75, 85 thereof. The two conduits 70, 80, which are disposed on opposing sides of the housing 20, are each configured to receive a corresponding electrical lead or cable (not shown) of one of the coupled connectors in use. The internal dimensions of the conduits 70, 80 are ideally smaller than the dimensions of the corresponding connector to prevent the connector passing therethrough.

[0051] The two conduits 70, 80 are in complete communication with the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 along the entire length of the conduits 70, 80. In this respect, the internal volume 60 also includes the respective volumes of the two conduits 70, 80, as defined by the wall 25 of the housing 20. By virtue of this arrangement each of the electrical leads of two coupled connectors may locate in a corresponding one of the conduits 70, 80. In the case of an electrical connection formed between industrial connectors, it will be appreciated that the limited flexibility of the industrial leads of such connectors will ensure that the leads remain within the corresponding conduit 70, 80 in use.

[0052] As shown in Fig. 2, the enclosure 10 further comprises a lid 100 adapted to sealingly engage the open end 50 of the housing 20. The lid 100 is generally circular in shape having a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the open end 50 of the housing 20.

[0053] As shown in Fig. 3, the lid 100 comprises an elongate handle portion Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

protruding from an outer surface 105 of the lid 100, with the handle portion 110 being centrally located thereon. The lid 100 further comprises a skirt portion 120 extending from an opposing inner surface 107 of the lid 100. The lid 100 also comprises two slots 130, 140 disposed on either side of the elongate handle portion 110 at the periphery of the lid 100.

[0054] As shown in Figs. 1 and 3, the open end 50 of the housing 20 comprises an internal threaded portion 45 at the base portion 40, and as shown in Figs 3 and 4, the skirt portion 120 of the lid 100 comprises a complementary external threaded portion 125 to allow the lid 100 to sealingly engage the open end 50 of the housing 20 via screw threaded engagement.

[0055] The two slots 130, 140 of the lid 100 are configured to receive an electrical lead of one of the coupled connectors therethough when the coupled connectors are housed within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 and the lid 100 is sealingly engaged with the open end 50 of the housing 20. It will be appreciated that the slots 130, 140 are large enough to receive the electrical leads or cables, but small enough to prevent the corresponding connector from passing through the slot 130, 140.

[0056] As shown in Fig. 4, the enclosure 10 comprises means for draining any adventitious fluid from the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 by virtue of two drainage apertures 110A, 11013 located in the handle portion 110 of the lid 100.

[0057] The enclosure 10 also comprises means for mounting the housing 20 to a support structure (not shown) to elevate the enclosure 10 above the ground.

[0058] As shown in Figs. 1 and 2, the mounting means is provided in the form of a flange 150 protruding from the upper portion 30 of the housing 20.
The upper flange 150 comprises three spaced apart apertures 150A, 15013, 150C, any one or more of which may be used to receive a corresponding protuberance such as a hook, nail or the like (not shown) of the support structure to support the housing 20 in a substantially upright orientation and thereby elevate the enclosure 10 above the ground in use.
Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

[0059] The upper flange 150 also comprises two arm portions 155, 157 that project down opposing sides of the upper portion 30, following the general profile of the upper portion 30. The two arm portions 155, 157 can be used as hooks to hook onto a ledge, hook (not shown) or the like of the support structure to support the housing 20 in a substantially upright orientation and thereby elevate the enclosure 10 above the ground in use. In one example, the support structure is a reinforcing mesh (not shown) used to line the walls of a mine, and one or both of the arm portions 155, 157 can be used to hook onto the mesh to elevate and support the enclosure 10 above the ground in use.

[0060] Extending upwardly from each of the two conduits 70, 80 at the opposing shoulder portions 90A, 90B of the housing 20 is a respective side flange 160, 170. The side flanges 160, 170 each comprise a respective arm portion 165, 175 that projects upwards, following the general profile of the upper portion 30 of the housing 20, but stops short of abutting the corresponding arm portion 155, 157 of the upper flange 150 so as to define an open slot 180, 190 on either side of the upper portion 30. The slots 180, 190 may serve a number of purposes. In one example, the slots 180, 190 can be used as handles for carrying the enclosure 10. In another example, the slots 180, 190 can be used to receive one or more leads of the coupled connectors as a means to guide and/or secure the leads in use.

[0061] As shown in Figs, 1 to 3, 6(i), the enclosure 10 comprises a further means by which to elevate the enclosure 10 above the ground. In this case, the housing 20 comprises a generally rectangular shaped conduit 200 which is closed at a first end thereof, and which is located at the upper portion 30 of the housing 20, which extends outwardly from the external surface of the housing 20 and projects downwardly away from the closed first end toward the base portion 40 of the housing 20 to define a generally rectangular shaped opening 210 at an opposing end of the conduit 200. In this respect, the enclosure 10 can be mounted to an upwardly projecting object (not shown) such as a tree branch, fence post, or the like, via the opening 210 so that the enclosure 10 is in a substantially upright orientation and elevated above the Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

ground.

[0062] In situations where a suitable upwardly projecting object is not available, then to this end, the enclosure 10 is preferably supplied with a support device configured to engage the opening 210. An example of one such support device 300 is shown specifically in Fig. 6(iii).

[0063] The support device 300 is provided in the form of an elongate body 310 comprising a ground-engaging portion 320 disposed at a first end thereof and an arm 330 located distal to the ground-engaging portion 320 and extends at an obtuse angle relative to the body 310. The ground-engaging portion 320 is shaped to form a spike to aid penetration into the ground.

[0064] As shown specifically in Fig. 6(i) and (ii), in use, the opening 210 of the conduit 200 is configured to receive an end portion of the arm 330. It will be appreciated that the body 310 of the support device 300 is of a length that is significantly greater than the height of the enclosure 10 to ensure that the enclosure 10 can be elevated to a reasonable distance above the ground to avoid contact with any groundwater.

[0065] Fig. 5 shows a cross sectional view of the enclosure 10 and lid 100 comprising a pair of electrical connections formed between corresponding pairs of coupled connectors 220, 230 and 240, 255 in use. In the case of the first pair of coupled connectors 220, 230, the electrical lead 225 of the first connector 220 passes through conduit 70, while the electrical lead 235 of the second connector 230 passes through conduit 80. In the case of the second pair of coupled connectors 240, 250, the electrical lead 245 of the first connector 240 passes through slot 130 of the lid 100, while the electrical lead 255 of the second connector 250 passes through slot 140 of the lid 100. In this arrangement, the electrical leads 225, 235 of the first pair of coupled connectors 220, 230 can be separated from the electrical leads 245, 255 of the second pair of coupled connectors 240, 250.

[0066] As shown in Fig. 7, the upper flange 150 and the two side flanges 160, Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

170, as well as the generally tapered cylindrically shape of the housing 20 and the two conduits 70, 80 are all of suitable dimensions to allow one housing 2013 to be inserted at least part-way into the internal volume 60 of another housing 20A, thereby realising a stacking arrangement (as shown by enclosures 10A to 10G) that reduces packaging, storage and shipping costs.
The housing 20 of the preferred embodiment is manufactured as a unitary product using a suitable non-conductive material such as a plastic. Typical manufacturing processes used to produce such a product include blow molding and the like. The external surfaces of the housing 20, the conduits 70, 80, the protrusion 200, the upper flange 150 and the two side flanges 160, 170, as well as the outer surface 105 of the lid 100, all provide useful vantage points for applying indicia thereon. Such indicia may include advertising information, safety instructions, and even high visibility or reflective strips to allow the enclosure 10 to be visible, particularly in poor lighting.

[0067] In accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the housing 20 is formed from two housing portions (not shown), which are adapted for coupling to each other along mating portions disposed around their respective peripheries. In this respect, the manufacturing process may be expanded to include cheaper alternative methods. It will be appreciated that the two housing portions may be coupled together using either a hinge assembly or a snap-fit type arrangement to form a sealing engagement between the two portions. The sealing between the two housing portions may be further enhanced with the addition of a seal or gasket to line one or both mating portions.

[0068] In either arrangement, the housing 20 according to this embodiment can transition between an open configuration for receiving the coupled connectors within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 and a closed configuration for partially sealing the coupled connectors within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20.

[0069] For safety or security reasons, it may be prudent to introduce locking means in the form of a clasp and lock arrangement or the like to secure the two Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

housing portions to one another when the housing 20 is in the closed configuration.
Advantaaes

[0070] The enclosure 10 as defined according to the preferred embodiments of the present invention provide a number of advantages.

[0071] By virtue of being able to suspend the enclosure 10 from a support structure (not shown) or elevate it above the ground via the support device 300, it is possible to elevate the electrical connection formed between the coupled connectors above the ground, thereby reducing the likelihood of the electrical connection being exposed to, for example, damp grass or puddles of water during use.

[0072] In addition, by virtue of the apertures 75, 85 in the conduits 70, 80 and the slots 130, 140 and drainage apertures 110A, 110B in the lid 100 all facing in a generally downwards direction when the housing 20 of the enclosure is oriented in a substantially upright orientation in use, any adventitious water such as rain, that may be present in the internal volume 60 of the housing may drain away.

[0073] Further, providing that the enclosure 10 is suspended or elevated above the ground, then by virtue of the lid 100 being threadingly engaged with the open end 50 of the housing 20 in use, the likelihood of the live elements of the connectors being exposed to water or moisture as a result of the coupled connectors being partially or fully disconnected connectors accidently is significantly reduced as the partially or fully disconnected connectors will remain within the suspended or elevated enclosure 10.

[0074] By virtue of being able to provide multiple conduits (not shown) around the body of the housing 20 and multiple apertures (not shown) within the lid 100, it is possible to incorporate several coupled connectors (not shown) or even a multisocket electrical board (not shown) with several Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

connectors connected thereto, within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20, thereby reducing the likelihood of the corresponding electrical connections being exposed to moisture or water during use.

[0075] In addition, by virtue of being able to separate the electrical leads of one pair of connectors from the electrical leads of another pair of coupled connectors allows not only for better organisation, but also aids users in identifying which electrical leads belong to which pair of coupled connectors, particularly when the electrical leads of both pairs of coupled connectors have the same appearance.

[0076] Figs. 8 to 11_ show an enclosure 400 according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. The enclosure 400 comprises the same features as enclosure 10 described above, but with the added benefit that the open end 450 of the housing 420 at the base portion 440 of the enclosure 400 is flared. The various features at the upper portion 30 of the enclosure share the same reference numerals as enclosure 10, while the remaining features, including the elongate housing (420), the wall 425 of the housing 420, and the two conduits (470, 480) disposed either side thereof, have been afforded different reference numerals for ease of identification.

[0077] Referring specifically to Figs. 8 and 9, the flared open end (hereinafter termed a flared opening 450) of the enclosure 400 is defined by the wall 425 of the housing 420 being shaped to define a skirt portion 460 that extends outwardly from the external surface of the housing 420. The two conduits 470, 480, at a respective lower open end 475, 485 thereof, blend seamlessly with an upper surface 465 of the skirt portion 460.

[0078] As shown in Fig. 10 (ii), access to the internal volume of conduit 470 via the flared opening 450 is not compromised. It will be appreciated that access to the internal volume of conduit 480 via the flared opening 450 is also not compromised.

[0079] As shown in Fig. 10(i), the lid 100 is sealingly engaged with the flared Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

open end 450 of the housing 420 by virtue of a screw threaded engagement between the external threaded portion 125 (Fig. 4(ii)) of the skirt portion of the lid 100 and the internal threaded portion 445 (see Fig. 10(ii)) of the base portion 440.

[0080] As is shown in Fig. 10(i), by virtue of the flared opening 450 of the enclosure 400 having a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the lid 100 enables the lid 100 to be received substantially within the flared opening 450 in use. Indeed, given that the length of the skirt portion 460 extends below the handle portion 110 of the lid 100, the lid 100 is completely recessed within the flared opening 450.

[0081] In this arrangement, the skirt portion 460 can engage the ground in use, such that the enclosure 400 is able to stand in a generally upright orientation, both with and without the lid 100 being sealingly engaged with the flared opening 450 of the housing 420.

[0082] As shown in Fig 11, the enclosure 400 includes locking means 500 such that the lid 100 can be lockingly secured to the flared open end 450 of the housing 420. In a preferred embodiment, the locking means is a padlock, which is inserted into a locking aperture 505 located in both the flared open end 450 of the housing 420 and in a corresponding position on the lid 100.

[0083] As shown in Figs. 8 to 11, the housing 420 comprises two support ribs disposed around the periphery of the housing 420 for the purpose of strengthening the housing 420. Each support rib is made up of two parts. The upper support rib has a first part 490A that spans between the two conduits 470 and 480 on a front section of the housing 420 (see Figs. 8, 9(i), 10(i) and 10(ii)), and a second part 490B that spans between the two conduits 470 and 480 on a back section of the housing 420 (see Fig. 9(ii)). The lower support rib is spilt into two parts 495A and 495B in a similar manner. It will be appreciated that the enclosure 400 is not limited to just two support ribs, but may comprise one or more than two ribs as required. Similarly, the orientation of the support ribs is not limited to simply being horizontal relative to the longitudinal Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

axis of the elongate housing 420, as is shown in Figs. 8 to 11 but may extend parallel to, or diagonally to, the longitudinal axis as required or desired.
Other Embodiments

[0084] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the enclosures 10, are not limited to shielding electrical connections as described above, but could equally be applied across a wide range of non-electrical applications, including for example, protecting a hose pipe connection (not shown) formed between coupled hose pipe connectors. In this respect, the corresponding tube of each of the coupled connectors may be channelled through either a conduit 70, 80 or a slot 130, 140 in the lid 100.

[0085] In the other embodiments that follow, the examples will be described in terms of enclosure 10. However, it will be appreciated that these examples are equally applicable to enclosure 400.

[0086] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the housing 20 is not limited to having two conduits 70, 80 on opposing sides of the housing 20 as shown in, for example, Fig. 1 For example, the housing 20 may comprise a single conduit (not shown) or more than two conduits (not shown) disposed around the housing 20. In the latter example, multiple conduits would not only afford the housing 20 with increased structural rigidity, it will also open up the possibility of allowing multiple pairs of coupled connectors to be located within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20, such that each connector lead can be located in a separate conduit 70, 80.

[0087] Multiple conduits also opens up the possibility of allowing a multisocket electrical board (not shown) to be located within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 such that several connectors, that is, electrical plugs, can connect to the electrical board and their respective electrical leads or cables channelled along a separate conduit.
Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

[0088] In other embodiments, the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 may not be in complete communication with the respective volumes of the conduits 70, 80 along their entire length as defined above. Rather, the internal volume 60 may be partly separated from the respective volumes of the conduits 70, 80 by virtue of one or more lip portions or other protuberances (not shown) located at some point along the length of the corresponding conduit 70, 80 between the respective shoulder portion 90A, 90B and the base portion 40 of the housing 20.
It will be appreciated that each lip portion or portions can act as a restraint or guide to keep an electrical lead of a corresponding connector within the respective conduit 70, 80, thereby separating it from the electrical lead of the other connector located within the internal volume 60 of the housing 20, which may instead be passed through one of the two slots 130, 140 in the lid 100.

[0089] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the enclosure 10 may further comprise sealing means in the form of a seal or gasket (not shown) for providing a more watertight sealing engagement between the open end 50 of the housing 20 and the lid 100 to prevent the ingress of water into the internal volume 60 of the housing 20. In one such arrangement, the seal or gasket may be of a generally circular shape for lining the inner surface 107 of the lid between the periphery and the outer circumference of the skirt portion 120. It will be appreciated that the seal or gasket will have cut-out portions on opposing sides thereof, such that when the seal or gasket is mounted to the inner surface 107 of the lid 100, the cut-out portions substantially align with a corresponding one of the slots 130, 140 in the lid 100.

[0090] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 may comprise one or more support ribs, fins or the like (not shown) to enhance the structural integrity of the housing 20.

[0091] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the means for draining the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 is not limited to the drainage apertures 110A, 110B in the handle portion 110 of the lid 100, but may be provided in the form of drainage apertures (not shown) formed in the wall 25 of the housing Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

20 and/or one or both of the two conduits 70, 80. It will be appreciated that the drainage apertures would be located toward the base portion 40 of the housing 20 to allow the fluid to drain by gravity flow when the housing 20 is oriented in a substantially upright orientation.

[0092] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the internal volume 60 of the housing 20 may comprise one or more retaining members (not shown) to restrict the movement of the coupled connectors within the housing 20 and reduce the likelihood of the coupled connectors becoming accidentally partially or fully disconnected during use. The retaining members may take the form of flanges that are formed as part of the housing 20 itself and which are shaped to conform to the general outline of the connectors.

[0093] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the support device used to support the enclosure 10 as described above, is not limited to comprising a ground- engaging portion 320 shaped in the form of a spike, but it, may instead define a support plate (not shown) of suitable dimensions that rests on the ground in use to provide the necessary support to allow the enclosure 10 to be supported unaided when it is mounted to the support device 300. The support plate may also comprise apertures that allow the support plate to be affixed temporarily or permanently to the ground using either bolts or pegs to provide even further support in use.

[0094] In other embodiments, the length of the body 310 of the support device 300 may be adjustable, for example, telescopically adjustable, to allow the enclosure 10 to be raised and lowered as required.

[0095] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that it is not necessary to have the entire housing 20 manufactured from a transparent or translucent plastic. Rather, it is only necessary to have a portion or portions of the housing 20 manufactured in transparent or translucent plastic. The remaining parts of the housing 20 may then be manufactured from either a different plastic or another material entirely. For example, if the enclosure 10 is configured for non-electrical applications, then the housing 20 can be manufactured from a Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

metal, metal alloy or other conductive material.

[0096] In other embodiments, it will be appreciated that the locking mechanism 500 as shown in Fig. 11, is not limited to a padlock but may include other suitable mechanical and indeed electronic locking devices.
INTERPRETATION

[0097] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may.
Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0098] Similarly it should be appreciated that in the above description of example embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description of Specific Embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[0099] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art.
For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0100] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

[0101] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth. However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[00102] In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity.
However, the invention is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as "forward", "rearward", "radially", "peripherally", "upwardly", "downwardly", and the like are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

[00103] In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" are used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

[00104] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention.

[00105] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms.

[00106] It is apparent from the above, that the arrangements described are applicable to industries in which the use of connections require protection, in particular, the present invention is applicable to the use of electrical connections in areas where water will present a problem, including, but not limited to: the building and construction industries, mining, showers and bathrooms, swimming pools and other water-themed recreational facilities, caravan parks, gardens, as well as indoor and outdoor illuminations.
Substitute Sheet (Rule 26) RO/AU

Claims (24)

Claims

1. An enclosure for a connection formed between coupled connectors, the enclosure comprising:
an elongate housing having an internal volume configured for receiving the coupled connectors therein; and at least one conduit member in communication with the internal volume, the at least one conduit member configured for receiving a lead, cable or tube of at least one of the coupled connectors.

2. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one conduit member is smaller in dimension than the at least one coupled connector to prevent the at least one coupled connector passing through the at least one conduit member.

3. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one conduit member extends from an external surface of the housing.

4. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, comprising two conduit members, each conduit member extending from an opposing side portion of the housing.

5. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprises an open end and a lid adapted to sealingly engage the open end for at least partially sealing the housing.

6. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing has a generally tapered cylindrical shape.

7. An enclosure as claimed in claim 6, wherein the open end is located at a base portion of the tapered cylinder.

8. An enclosure as claimed in claim 5, wherein the lid comprises a skirt portion, the open end of the housing and the skirt portion each comprising a complementary threaded portion.

9. An enclosure as claimed in claim 5, wherein the lid comprises at least one aperture for receiving the lead, cable or tube of at least one of the coupled connectors therethough.

10. An enclosure as claimed in claim 9, wherein the at least one aperture is smaller in dimension than the at least one coupled connector to prevent the at least one coupled connector passing through the at least one aperture when the lid is sealingly engaged with the open end of the housing.

11. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprises at least one flange extending from an upper portion thereof, the at least one upper flange defining mounting means for mounting the enclosure to a support structure.

12. An enclosure as claimed in claim 11, wherein the housing further comprises at least one flange extending from a side portion thereof, the at least one upper flange and the at least one side flange defining the mounting means.

13. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprises an opening for receiving at least a portion of an elongate support device adapted for engaging the ground.

14. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing is adapted to receive at least a portion of a housing of another enclosure at the open end thereof.

15. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprises at least one transparent or translucent portion such that the connection within the housing is visible from outside the housing.

16. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, further comprising means for draining a fluid from the internal volume of the housing.

17. An enclosure as claimed in claim 16, wherein the draining means comprises at least one drainage aperture in the housing at a base portion thereof and/or in a lid.

18. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprises first and second housing portions adapted for coupling to each other to allow the housing to transition between an open configuration for receiving the coupled connectors within the internal volume of the housing and a closed configuration for at least partially sealing the coupled connectors within the internal volume of the housing.

19. An enclosure as claimed in claim 18, further comprising sealing means for providing a sealing engagement between the first and second housing portions and the lid when the housing is in the closed configuration.

20. An enclosure as claimed in claim 19, wherein the first and second housing portions each comprise a complementary mating portion disposed around a periphery thereof, the sealing means comprising at least one gasket member for lining the mating portion of at least one of the first and second housing portions.

21. An enclosure as claimed in claim 7, wherein the base portion defines a flared opening at the open end of the housing to allow the enclosure to stand on the ground in a generally upright orientation.

22. An enclosure as claimed in claim 21, wherein the flared opening is adapted to receive the lid substantially therein to sealingly engage the open end.

23. An enclosure as claimed in claim 1, wherein the housing comprising at least one support rib for strengthening the housing.

24. An enclosure as claimed in claim 23, wherein the at least one support rib is disposed around a periphery of the housing.