GB2513201A

GB2513201A - A Wiring Connection

Info

Publication number: GB2513201A
Application number: GB201307180A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lee Webb
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2013-04-19
Filing date: 2013-04-19
Publication date: 2014-10-22
Anticipated expiration: 2033-04-19
Also published as: GB201307180D0; GB2513201B

Abstract

An electrical back-box 1 for insertion into a structure (e.g. wall) includes an insert 3 with a connection outlet (e.g. a socket), wherein the insert 3 is push-fitted into the back-box 1. The back-box 1 may include a cylindrical lacuna 5 for receiving the insert 3. The insert 3 may be fitted into the lacuna 5 via a twist-lock mechanism, wherein a sprung nub of the insert is received in a slot 10 of the lacuna 5 when the insert 3 is pushed into the lacuna 5 and twisted so as to lock the insert 3 in position in the back-box 1. The back-box 1 may include a fascia 2 which acts as a lid over the back-box 1. A fitment-consolidating ring, lid or device may 4 be incorporated in order to limit return and/or rotation of the insert 3. The fitment-consolidating device may be provided by the fascia 2 or by a separate device 4 (e.g. a peripheral ring). The fascia 2 may comprise a lip 7 and the fitment-consolidating device 4 may be screwed along a thread 9 of the insert 3 and tighten over and against the lip 7.

Description

A WIRING CONNECTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a wiring connection and more particular but not exclusively a wiring connection capable of acting as a power outlet.

Background

There are various outlets in all residential and commercial premises, for example power outlets and network outlets. Typically said outlets provide a wiring or network attachment point at which items can be connected and thereby have access to the outlet network, for example electricity.

Commonly such outlets are in the form of a female socket which accepts a male plug. Standardised plugs and sockets are provided in most countries to enable electrical items to be powered, and international standards exist for network and communication wiring to be linked to devices such as desktop, tablet or laptop computers and cellphones.

Said sockets are covered *in use by fasciae, which may in some embodiments comprise aesthetic options.

However standardised fasciae are not widely available which are standard between different wiring networks, wherein appearance of each socket differs so a household may include various sockets arranged in multiple locations which can be unsightly.

Furthermore some sockets may be made redundant if wiring requirements change, requiring removal or changing to perform a different wiring function.

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Prior Art 5..

Accordingly a number of patent applications have been filed in an attempt to resolve the problem or similar, including the following:

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Granted United States patent US 7 394 019 (GESUE) discloses a compact flush-mount self contained receptacle for installation into a pre-drilled hole in a solid material wall or hollow framed window sill, comprising: a two-piece housing including an open-ended cylindrical enclosure and attachable cylindrical cover plate having a frontal surface, said cover plate being formed with a rectangular aperture in said frontal surface, and a pair of outwardly-angled bore-holes on opposing sides of said aperture to allow fixation by screws into sidewalls of the pre-drilled hole in said window sill; and a snap-in receptacle for insertion into the aperture of said cover plate said receptacle being thereby suspended within the cylindrical enclosure, and a face of said receptacle remaining flush with said cover plate front surface and with said window sill, and remaining accessible for insertion of a plug.

German patent application DE 20 217 322 (WOERNER) discloses a cylindrical mounting sleeve inserted into a hole in a wall. Formed on the inner surface are bosses that have threaded screws that can be turned to cause latch elements to grip the sides. A switch socket is inserted and is secured using screws that fit intO holes in the sleeve.

United States patent application US 3 885 852 (GROVE) discloses an electrical wall unit assembly comprising: a housing having a generally symetrical periphery and mounting means disposed for mounting said housing in the wall of a building; a core unit having a periphery mated to the periphery of said housing for insertion and rotation therein, said core unit periphery having a plurality alternately disposed of lands and channels; a plurality of engaging fingers interconnected with said housing and disposed to engage said lanth on said core unit when said core unit is inserted into said housing with said fingers aligned with said lands, and to disengage from said lands when said core unit is rotated with respect to said housing to align said fingers with said channels; and a face plate on said core unit disposed to form a flange extending radially outward from said core unit to close said housing when said core unit is inserted into said housing.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided a wiring connection comprising a * 35 backbox comprising a connection inlet, and an insert comprising a connection outlet; wherein the backbox is arranged in use to be embedded into a structure and said insert is arranged in use to be pushfitted into the backbox.

The backbox may first be embedded into the structure and the insert may be subsequently pushfitted into the backbox. In some embodiments the backbox may not need replacement in order to avoid regulations relating to oversight, wherein for example the backbox is inserted into an existing back shell.

In preferred embodiments the insert may be pushfitted into the backbox by a movement of rotation.

Advantageously a further fitment-consolidating ring, lid or device is comprised in the connection, wherein said device is arranged in use to limit return and/or rotation of the insert. The device therefore minimises safety hazards created by possibilities of unauthorised removal of the insert. Said device may be screwed to consolidate the fitment.

Said device is ideally separably displaceable in order that a plurality of devices may be used on any one connection, allowing for aesthetic choices at manufacture or retail.

Said device may comprise a fascia for the backbox, but in preferred embodiments comprises a device arranged in use subsequent to said fascia.

Said device in preferred embodiments comprises a peripheral ring adapted to be arranged over the insert and backbox so as to consolidate the insert's position and minimise rotation and/or return.

In preferred embodiments the insert is circular in cross section, or more particularly a *:** 30 cylindrical format situated within the backbox, wherein the backbox is square or rectangular presenting an embedded cuboid. S... *5*

The backbox may thereby include a cylindrical lacuna into where the insert is fitted, and wherein the lacuna comprises a fitment mechanism.

In preferred embodiments the backbox is provided with a fascia arranged with an aperture for acceptance of the insert, and attached in use over the lacuna. In embodiments for use with more than one insert the fascia comprises an equal number of apertures and the backbox an equal number of Iacunae.

Said fascia is in some embodiments may be attached over the backbox subsequent to the insert fitment, with the device fitted subsequent, or the device may be fitted subsequent to the insert fitment into the backbox with fascia attached.

The connection may thereby comprise: a backbox capable of accepting removable, interchangeable inserts, wherein said insert is arranged in use to be received within the backbox, and wherein the backbox is arranged in use with a fascia which is shaped and dimensioned to fit about the insert and wherein interchangeable device formed as annular rings are arranged around the insert so as to consolidate the insert placement and maintain the insert in place in the backbox.

Preferably the connection is arranged for mounting on or within a wall wherein at least the insert face is accessible so as to be able to insert a plug. Advantageously as the insert is smaller than the back box, and a visible portion of the connection is less than in standard arrangements, allowing the connection to be more discrete and better concealed in decoration schemes.

Advantageously the visible portion is typically smaller than standard sockets; therefore more may be arranged across a property whilst still being discreet, in particular creating smaller visible interruptions of existing or surrounding wall coverings. Plastering in some embodiments may be possible around the insert or over parts of the backbox.

The connection is ideally accomplished at the insert's rear wherein the insert can be * r * 30 displaced to allow greater freedomof connection.

Preferably the backbox is a substantially square box comprising a base and four sides, therefore having one open side. Advantageously the backbox may be the same size as standard backboxes soas to use existing locations on walls therefore * . * * " 35 meeting current legal requirements. *. . S * * * S.

Typically in use the backbox is recessed into the wall, positioned over or near to wiring so that the wires may be accepted into the backbox through apertures on one or more of the sides or the base in standard formats and wherein wires are exposed, accessible and connected within the backbox so that they may be connected to the insert before the insert is secured into position in the backbox. In further embodiments the backbox comprises a wiring solution and the insert plugs into said solution.

In preferred embodiments the backbox includes a moulded lacuna for receiving the insert, positioned centrally in the backbox. In alternative embodiments for example comprising plural connection points or two inserts, the Iacuna(e) may be offset providing more space on one side of the backbox for access/wiring. Ideally the lacuna is dimensioned according to the plug that will be accepted by the insert, wherein different inserts are used in backboxes, for example according to!ocal characteristics or preferences.

In preferred embodiments various inserts may be provided depending upon the connection required For example the insert may be adapted for a three pin plug, a universal serial bus (USB) cable, a network cable or phone line. In this way international sockets and adapters may also be provided as inserts subject to appropriate adjustment of power supply, for example by a transformed if required.

Additionally in some embodiments a waterproof wiring connections may be provided for outdoor use or in areas subject to moisture such as bathrooms, For example a waterproof insert may be accepted into the backbox to provide the waterproof wiring connection.

Preferably the lacuna is tubular so as to receive a cylindrical insert. In this way the lacuna is dimensioned to receive the insert and the insert is secured into the lacuna : 30 at least partly for use, wherein part of the insert may stand proud of the lacuna. It * may be envisaged that the lacuna may be adapted to fit different shaped inserts for ** example wherein the insert may befrusto-conical or cuboid.

Ideally the insert is fitted into the lacuna by means of a twist lock mechanism * 35 comprising male studs and females slots wherein the insert is inserted into the lacuna and twisted so as to be locked in position within the backbox. Said studs may be sprung biased and the slots may comprise a plurality of incremental receiving notches. In this way the insert is further prevented from moving when in use and the insert can be positioned at the preferred orientation.

S In other embodiments the insert may be accepted to the lacuna by means of a snap fitting, friction fitting or detent mechanism for example wherein a engagement portion may be arranged on the backbox rear or side wall so as to be suspended in or projecting from the backbox.

Ideally the depth of the backbox may be varied in different designs so as to provide space which may be required to house additional components such as wiring or transformers wherein for example a deeper box enables the lacuna for the insert to be deeper and therefore provides space for the transformer to be included behind where the plug is inserted in use, if required.

Therefore it may be envisaged that the insert type may be varied/changed depending upon the requirement. For example a three pin insert may be exchanged for the USB insert subject to the appropriate wiring being available. Advantageously changing of the insert involves no disruption to walls as only the insert is replaced within the same backbox, therefore future maintenance or aesthetic changes are minimal and simple as the insert can be readily replaced without requirement to alter the backbox.

Furthermore the inserts may be upgraded to comply with future law changes without requirement for the backbox to be removed and changed.

Typically the orientation of each insert when filled is determined by the notches used in the twist lock mechanism, therefore each insert may have notches specifically located so as to optimally position the plug entry point. For example wherein the.

*.,: 30 USB insert is arranged for the plug to be accepted in a horizontal alignment.

Typically part of the insert projects fromthe backbox so as to project from the wall even where the backbox is recessed into a wall and allow easier decoration.

Preferably the fascia includes an aperture arranged according to the insert so that 35 the fascia may be positioned in use on or in the backbox entrance, keeping the lacuna accessible. In this way the fascia serves as a lid over the backbox.

In some embodiments the fascia accepts screws to connect to the backbox.

Alternatively or additionally the fascia may be fitted by a clip or detent mechanism and said fitting may be consolidated or defined by the insert wherein for example the insert includes a reduced diameter under the fascia.

In some embodiments the aperture in the fascia includes a raised lip so that the lip serves as a barrier about the insert to which the wall may be plastered up to thereby concealing the mounting plate, protecting the insert and leaving the lacuna accessible for the insert to be changed. In this way the backbox and fascia may be covered by plaster when recessed in the wall leaving only the insert projecting from the aperture.

Advantageously the insert may be readily removed from the lacuna in the backbox without requirement for removal of the fascia.

Ideally when the insert and fascia are fitted to the backbox at least a portion of the insert may project from the wall.

Preferably therefore at least one section of the insert projects beyond the fascia.

Said section is preferably arranged with an attachment mechanism for the consolidating device. Said mechanism typically comprises screwthreading or in other embodiments a resiliently deformable detent mechanism or friction or tolerance fit mechanism. In this way the insert is enabled to receive the interchangeable devices.

The device preferably serves to cover any gaps between the insert and fascia, for example to include slots arranged to allow passage of studs, insert, and may also serve as decorative means. *L 30 * .

Preferably various devices may be available so as to suit particular designs, locations flfl or colours schemes, such as rings or squares formed from or designed to have the appearance of chrome, gold, silver, bronze, Swarovski Crystal (Trade Mark), stainless steel, wood or synthetic plastic.

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Furthermore the devices may be coloured to match or contrast surrounding or the devices may include fluorescing properties so as to glow in the dark thereby helping to identify the insert in low light or dark conditions. In other embodiments the insert and/or fascia may include permanent or activatable electrical energy draw from the backbox's electrical network, for example to provide a light to aid with locating the wiring connection in low light or dark conditions. For example the wiring connection may include a light emitting diode (LED).

In some embodiments the backbox may provide electricity to at least one feature local to the insert and/or backbox, for example voice recognition hardware, a burglar or smoke alarm, wireless signal booster, communication system, air freshener. Said features are ideally incorporated in the insert, wherein the backbox may include an activation switch, transformer and/or dedicated wiring for said electrical draw, for example to be accomplished alongside a standard electrical outlet. The insert in such embodiments may comprise a displaceable part for adjustments as required without exposing electrical wiring.

In some embodiments a child proof interchangeable device may be provided wherein access to the insert is limited, and/or wherein the interchangeable device includes a locking mechanism so as to prevent unauthorised removal.

Preferably the interchangeable devices are dimensioned to enable them to be readily cleaned without scratching, for example the interchangeable devices may have smooth finishes so as to enable them to be readily cleaned with a cloth.

Typically the devices may be lightweight, durable accessory to the connection that can be readily changed in order to change the appearance of the connection.

In preferred embodiments the backbox and mounting plate may be formed from : 30 strong, durable lightweight materials such as synthetic plastics, for example urea-* * formaldehyde or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene). o.. 0S*

In some embodiments the insert may comprise an activation switch. In some embodiments this may be provided in addition to the insert, in other embodiments the . 35 switch may be provided instead of the insert, wherein for example the insert *. * comprises a light switch.

Typically the switch may be activation by depression of the switch. In other embodiments the switch may include a sensor so as to be activated by presence or a user or Sound, for example voice command.

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric exploded view of a preferred embodiment of the wiring Connection; Figure 2 shows an isometric view of a backbox for use with the embodiment shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an isometric view of an insert for use with a backbox as shown in Figure 2; Figure 4 shows a reverse isometric view of the backbox embodiment shown in Figure 2; Figure 5 shows an isometric view of a fascia for use with the embodiment shown in Figure 1; Figure 6 shows an isometric view of an insert for use with a backbox as shown in Figure 2; Figure 7 shows an isometric view of a consolidator for use with a backbox as shown *.* inFigure2; and fl.

Figure 8 shows an isometric view of a second embodiment in use.

Detailed Description of Figures S.

With reference to the figures the backbox 1 includes a lacuna 5 dimensioned to accept the insert 3.

The insert includes sprung flubs 6 arranged to interface with the lacuna 5, or more particularly slot 10.

The fascia 2 is placed over the backbox 1 leaving an aperture 8 for receipt of the insert 3 and the device 4 comprises an annular ring arranged to be screwed onto the insert 3.

The fascia 2 comprises a lip 7, wherein in some embodiments the device 4 as screwed along a screwthread 9 into the insert 3, will tighten over and against the lip 7.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned enibodiments without departing from the scope of invention.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realised that the optimum dimensional relationships for the pads of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one ékilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described* in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. * . **** * *.** * * * * e * * * * **

Claims

Claims 1. A wiring connection comprising a backbox comprising a connection inlet, and an insert comprising a connection outlet; wherein the backbox is arranged in use to be embedded into a structure and said insert is arranged in use to be pushfitted into the backbox.
2. A wiring connection according to claim 1 wherein the insert arranged in use to be rotatably fitted to the backbox.
3. A wiring connection according to either of claims 1 and 2 further comprising a fascia.
4. A wiring connection according to any preceding claim further comprising a fitment consolidator.
5. A wiring connection according to claim 4 wherein the fitment consolidator is provided by a fascia.
6. A wiring connection according to claim 4 wherein the fitment consolidator is a separate part.
7. A wiring connector substantially as described herein and with reference to the figures. * . * * * * * * * ** ** * * .