GB2593213A - Pre-wired electrical assemblies - Google Patents

Abstract

An electrical fitting assembly 10 comprises a back box suitable for attaching to a mounting surface or securing to a recess. The back box includes a terminal block 20 connectable to conductors suitable for carrying a live feed, where the terminal block 20 has at least one connector pin receiver 24. The assembly 10 comprises a fascia plate 1 adapted to present an electrical fitting 5 on an outer face, and disposed on the inner surface is a connector block (figure 3, 10) having at least one connector pin 14 adapted to align and engage with the at least one receiver 24 of the terminal block20. The assembly 10 further comprises guide elements (figure 3, 12) to align and locate the connector pin 14 in its respective receiver 24. The invention further relates to a method of electrical installation utilising the pre-wired electrical assemblies disclosed. A kit of parts for an electrical installation is also disclosed. A method of changing an electrical fitting is taught, as is a terminal block adapted to be fit into a back box.

Description

PRE-WIRED ELECTRICAL ASSEMBLIES

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to assemblies for electrical fittings for general and domestic use, assemblies that facilitate pre-wiring and assemblies allowing for safe replacement of electrical fittings, including blanks and fascia plates. The invention particularly relates to a method of installation of electrical fittings for improved safety during construction, renovation and decorating.

The invention is most particularly directed to the provision of pre-wired electrical assemblies for wall-mounted electrical fittings, having an outlet, switch or like component which is electrically connects to a terminal block within a back box via at least one male connector and includes guide means either for the connectors or to locate the front facing component with respect to the back box.

The present invention is also particularly concerned with the provision of finished electrical installations during building construction, renovation or decoration of an existing property and facilitating safe replacement of outlets, switches and other fittings, particularly by persons other than qualified installers or electricians.

Although generally associated with electrical installations in domestic residences, the same fittings are also used in office environments and in many industrial applications where single phase electrical supply is used. It will be understood that the invention as described herein may be applied to low voltage applications, signal and data communications, such as alarm systems, USB charging points and Ethernet or LAN connections, as well as three-phase and high-voltage applications without departing from the spirit of the invention.

It will be understood by the skilled addressee that the term 'electrical fitting' is not intended to be limiting and, as demonstrated below, the uses to which the assemblies of the invention may be applied reach far beyond the standard mains power outlets and light switches to which the preponderance of the prior art refers.

It will also be appreciated that electrical installations about the domestic and business environments are no Longer as limited as they once were and that data and signal transmission within such environments is more common now both within the wired and wireless environment. This is particularly relevant to so-called 'smart homes' and where data is transmitted to and from devices within either environment The following terms are used throughout the description and, in order to appreciate the invention and the relevance of the prior art, are set out in detail below: Back box Generally fixed within a wall cavity and through which cabling for connection wires are fed. Should be considered synonymous with a pattress box which serves the same purpose but is often surface mounted to a wall or skirting board. In specialised trunking the back box elements are occasionally integrally formed with the trunking. In each case, the back box is normally provided with threaded lugs or receivers for fixing screws.

A plate presenting the user face or interface for user control. Most often comprises a light switch or switched socket outlet but can also be presented as a fused isolator switch or a blanking plate. In each case, normally has screw holes which align with the threaded Lugs or receivers of the back box for securing thereto.

Fascia plate TerminaE block Normally fixed to the inner surface of the fascia plate and having terminals for secure in connection wires fed through the back box.

Connector block NormaEly integrally formed with the terminal block and providing electrical connection from the terminals of the terminal block to the eFectrical controk, switches or outlets presented on the user face of the fascia plate.

In the present invention and the most relevant prior art, the terminal block and connector block are formed separately, with the terminal block being mounted to the back box and the connector block being mounted to the inner or rearward facing surface of the fascia plate.

In the description that follows any reference to walls, including cavity walls, includes any surface used for the intended purpose, including skirting boards, door frames, work surfaces and trunking. Notably the above applies equally to ceiling fittings and particularly to ceiling roses.

As the preponderance of the prior art refers to electrical connection for mains voltages and does not consider low voltage feeds, data or signal feeds, the term live feed' is used hereinafter to indicate an active connection for use or control by a user at the fascia interface.

Reference is also made generally to domestic properties and residences, however, the skilled addressee will appreciate that this is simply the most common location to which the present invention may be applied and should not be considered limiting.

Background to the Invention

As noted above, conventional fittings, including electrical sockets, light switches and ceiling roses comprise a back box for securing the fittings to a mounting surface and a removable fascia plate, which includes a terminal block for connecting to an electrical supply. It is well-appreciated that for the installation and replacement of such fittings, a properly qualified electrician is required (by law in many jurisdictions).

Although in most instances where in the fascia plate is installed or replaced, for example, during initial installation or rewiring, an electrician will be employed, however, there is a number of occasions where non-qualified persons will be tempted to remove the fascia plate.

Generally speaking it is only safe to remove the fascia plate when the electrical supply has been isolated from the fitting, as Live connections will otherwise be exposed. Most common of such occasions is where a room is being decorated. Where existing wallpaper is trapped behind the fascia plate there is a significant risk of electrical shock if a scraper blade touches the exposed contacts on the inner side of the removed fascia plate. Similarly, where wallpaper, adhesive or paint is being applied, inadvertent touching of the contact terminals can be harmful or fatal.

Furthermore, once a room has been decorated, the existing electrical fittings may no longer be in keeping with the decor but due to the expense of having an electrician or having to take vacation time to accommodate a visit, the decoration remains unfinished or an unskilled person will attempt to install replacement fittings. Additionally, it is well-appreciated that there are limited variations in the available finishes or colours of fittings available due, in major part, to the complications associated with the replacement. Ease of replacement may in due course create a market for a wide variety of fitting colours and finishes.

Another regular decorative embellishment that requires a replacement electrical fitting is the substitution of a light fitting. Most problematic of these is the ceiling light where a ceiling rose comprises a back plate for securing to the ceiling and a fascia plate to which the bulb sockets attach or through which a length of wire depends to a bulb socket assembly. In many light fittings, a terminal block is attached to the inner surface of the fascia plate and it is to these fittings that the common disadvantages noted herein apply.

It is well-appreciated that the current methods of electrical system installation for domestic, business and industrial buildings is flawed, in that it is unnecessarily time-consuming creates significant scheduling delays which can cause severe knock-on delays (often exposing a contractor to fines) and requires numerous attendances by the installing electrician.

Furthermore, scheduling an inspector who may have to liaise with the electrician can cause Logistical challenges and further delays affecting other contractors.

Minor disadvantages, such as the lack of available power within a building until relatively Late in the build hampers progress and adds to overall cost Internal combustion engine generators produce fumes and are noisy, potentially limiting the times within which they can be used on site.

The disadvantages noted above can apply to relatively small jobs, such as single room, garage or conservatory extensions to domestic properties. Even replacement of worn, cracked or damaged fascia plates may require the services of a qualified electrician due to the risk of a shock from exposed wires or terminal connections.

The most significant disadvantage discussed in the prior art referenced below are the delays and complications associated with new builds and extensions to or repurposing of existing properties. During construction, the electrical installation requires a minimum of two distinct stages, the first being the positioning of back boxes for electrical outlets, wall switches and any additional fittings required, together with ceiling light fixing plates, at their respective required positions, and all the connecting cabling running back to the mains consumer unit or appropriate distribution points. In most instances, any excess cable is simply pushed back into the wall cavity or curled into the back boxes, as the consumer unit is either not made Live or power is isolated from the feeds to the various outlets.

Notably, no power is available at the outlets for the other construction professionals or contractors who may follow.

At this point, the electrical installer Leaves the site to allow walls to be rendered, plastered, papered or painted until the next installation stage is required. Where excess render or plaster has accumulated in the back boxes, this must be removed before the electrical installer goes about connecting the wires to the required socket outlets, switches, etc., trimming excess wires as required or pushing excess cable into the wall cavity behind the back box. A small amount of cable may be folded into the back box to allow for future convenient disconnection of the wires from the terminal block.

After all the connections are made and the installation is tested, it must be 'signed-off' as meeting Local, national or regional regulations. As legislation surrounding both domestic, business and industrial installations becomes increasingly strict with attendant fines or civil and criminal remedies available, it is often a requirement that any installation, including any modifications or adaptations to existing installations, be approved by an independent inspector.

Should the inspector fail the installation on any point, the contracting installer or electrician will have to return to attend to the failures. Additionally, after the build is completed, any "snagging" (remedying of minor faults and imperfections) or alterations requested may involve a further site visit.

United Kingdom Patent Publication No. 2 345 806 to AntiLl discloses an electrical accessory in the form of a socket outlet, electrical socket, light fitting or switch comprising a connecting part connectable to an electrical supply and an operable part removably mountable on the connecting part to provide electrical connections therewith. The connecting part is formed so that upon removal of the operable part from the connecting part inadvertent access to the electrical connections is prevented by a shutter.

United States Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0185296 to Schultz et al. describes a power distribution system for use in a building comprising a junction box, a hub, a junction device and a cover plate. The hub is retained within the junction box and connected to the building wiring. The junction device, comprising the functional user socket or light switch, plugs into the hub and a cover pLate (which optionally may be integraLly formed with the junction device) finishes the power distribution point and prevents inadvertent access to the Live connections.

In United Kingdom Patent Application Publication No. 2 404 097 to Richardson an electrical connector module for use in conjunction with a back box as shown. The connector module is configured to Locate in the back box and define at least one wire determinator (terminal) to which an individual wire of a cable may be connected. ALso provided for is a socket having at least one rearwardly-directed conductor pin adapted to connect directly to the connector module.

European Patent Application Publication No. 2 367 242 to Jeans describes a modified back box having a terminal block integralLy formed therewith, the electricaL screw terminals being accessed from the rear of the back box so that once the back box is fixed to a wall recess, neither the feed wires nor the terminals are accessible. Connection receivers are provided in the front of the terminal block to accept rearwardly facing connectors disposed on the fascia plate which may comprise an electrical socket or switch.

United States Patent Application Publication No. 2002/0052139 to Gorman describes an electrical outlet and switch system allowing snap-in installation and snap-out removal of outlet and switch modules without exposure to mains voltage conductors. The system comprises an electrical box, a wiring panel, an outlet or switch module and a corresponding faceplate. The wiring panel is adapted to sit within the electrical box and is connected to a mains voltage feed via terminals at the rearward side thereof. Raised connector receivers are disposed at the front of the wiring panel to receive the rearwardly facing connectors of the outlet or switch module.

As will be readily appreciated from the patent literature, there are many different approaches taken to solving some of the technicaL disadvantages and safety issues associated with eLectrical system installation. Each area presents specific concerns; however, many aspects are common and will be addressed hereinafter.

Primary of these disadvantages are that many of the installations require fitting during the building of a property or, if retrofitted, involve significant labour costs and restitution to various elements of the building and often considerable redecoration.

It will be appreciated by the reader and, more particularly, by the installers of such systems that even with the advantages suggested by the prior art, the time involvement for the electrician and liaison with the appointed inspector is not significantly Lessened. Furthermore, the advantage of being able to easily replace fittings wilL firstly require the wholesale exchange of fittings to those specifically designed in accordance with the requirements of the prior art. Therefore to be easily retrofittable the back box of existing standard configuration must be adaptable.

Turning now to the realistic installation of any of the prior art devices in a modern house or apartment, it will be appreciated that any fitting and method of installation will have to either conform to the locaL regulations or being capable of passing standard safety and conductivity tests. The disadvantage of each of the prior art arrangement is that two

B

separate site visits will still be required by the installing electrician before the appointed inspector can conduct the required assessment It is an object of the present invention to seek to alleviate the primary disadvantages associated with prior art electrical fittings and methods of electrical system installation.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus that is easily retrofittable, which is not Labour-intensive and includes elements which may be replaced by unqualified individuals.

It is the further object of the present invention to provide a simplified method of installation of an electrical system for domestic, business and industrial premises.

It is a yet further object of the invention to reduce significantly the labour and time overhead of tasks associated with the installation of electrical fittings in a building.

The variants of the fittings of the invention and the uses to which they are applied are not intended to be taken as limiting merely illustrative of the typical scenarios within which the fittings and methods of installation of the invention are adapted for use.

Summary of the Invention

Accordingly, the present invention provides an electrical fitting assembly comprising: a back box suitable for attaching to a mounting surface or securing to a recess formed therein, the back box including a terminal block connectable to conductors for carrying a Live feed, the terminal block having at least one connector pin receiver; a fascia plate comprising or adapted to present a user controlled or accessed electrical fitting on an outer face thereof and disposed on the inner surface thereof includes a connector block having at least one connector pin adapted to align and engage with the at Least one receiver of the terminal block; and guide elements to align and locate the or each connector pin in its respective receiver.

Advantageously, the terminal block is removably secured to the back box so that wires from the feed cable may be connected with ease and any excess cable or wiring may be fed back into a wall cavity before securing the block to the back box.

Ideally, the terminal block includes means to facilitate its securing to any standard back box, so that existing installations may be retrofitted with new fittings without removal or substitution of a back box.

Conveniently, a retrofittable terminal block includes securing means which allow the block to be push-fit into an existing back box. Ideally, screw fixing of the terminal block to the back box is obviated.

In a preferred construction, terminal connectors for feed wires are provided with over-lever securing elements having lever elements formed of an insulation material, so that no live terminals are exposed once the terminal block is secured within the back box.

In a most preferred arrangement, the terminal block presents a plurality of connector pin receivers, ideally disposed in an arrangement identical to the standard socket fitting of the relevant jurisdiction, for example, the 3-pin, 13 Amp, 220V configuration, used extensively in the UK and Ireland (Type G) and up to Soother countries worldwide, or the corresponding 15A, 125V configuration used predominantly in the US, Canada and Japan (Type B). Modifications to accommodate the European (Type F) configuration used extensively across Europe and former Soviet states are also considered.

The above arrangement allows for the terminal block to be connected to a mains feed and tested at a first site visit. A disposable or interim terminal block cover may then be removed either by an installation inspector and tested using conventional plug-in test equipment or conveniently by a contractor who now has access to power on site at a much earlier stage in the build.

Where the terminal block is designed for receipt of data or a signal feed, the connector receiver is modified accordingly.

Optionally, the terminal block includes guide elements extending outwardly and adapted to receive corresponding guide elements disposed on the connector block.

Conveniently, the fascia plate presents the required user interface on its outer face and a connector block appropriate to the designated user function of the fitting on its inner face. Where the fitting is an outlet socket (single or dual), fused switch or light switch, the or each connector pin is configured to align with the corresponding receiver in the terminal block.

Ideally, the connector pins are provided in an arrangement identical to that of a standard plug fitting of the relevant jurisdiction so as to engage in a manner compliant with all the rules and regulations of that jurisdiction and to facilitate ease of use and market acceptance.

The present invention further provides a method of electrical system installation that follows recognised and accepted guidelines but that obviates excessive site visits by a qualified installer or electrician, the method including: connecting a terminal block to exposed wires from a feed cable operably connectable to a distribution point or consumer unit; fixing the terminal block within the back box; testing the connection to ensure feed to the terminal block meets with requirements; providing a blanking plate for preventing inadvertent access to the terminal block and accumulation of dust, debris or decorating materials within the back box; and mounting and securing a fascia place to the back box to provide the required electrical fitting or user interface.

The invention also relates to the use of the fittings according to the invention to improve construction scheduling and provide ready alternatives during the re-styling or decoration of a home or office.

The method of installation provides numerous advantages over the prior art in that the electrical or data feed can be made live at the first site visit and facilitates early inspection of the installation. By configuring the terminal block receivers to conform to the standard electrical socket Layout or type for the relevant jurisdiction, the fascia plate need not be installed until Later and can be fitted by an unqualified person. Where the fascia plate includes a user interface which is delicate, for example, includes a touch-screen, or is decorative, protecting from construction debris, dust and accidental impact is advantageous. More significantly, by ready removal of an interim reusable or disposable blanking plate, the terminal Mock may be accessed by an inspector who may assess the connections, earthing and fault conditions without waiting for the fascia plate to be installed and a contractor may access a power feed without utilising a site generator at a much earlier stage in the build.

The invention thus additionally provides a method for rapidly changing an electrical fitting for repair or decorative purposes without the need to make contact with electrical wires or feed connectors, the method comprising no more than: releasing securing screws fixing a fascia plate to a back box; sliding the fascia plate connector pins and guide elements from within the back box; and reversing the above steps to install a new or replacement fascia plate.

The invention also provides a terminal block adapted to fit a standard electrical fitting back box, the terminal block comprising: means for retaining the terminal block within the back box; means for connecting and securing exposed wires from a feed cable; a configuration of connector pin receivers corresponding to the required outlet type to facilitate rapid connection; and retaining elements to engage with guide or gripping elements of a fascia plate.

Conveniently, the terminal block includes over-lever wire securing elements to facilitate rapid connection of the terminal block and that the over-lever elements comprise insulating materials so that no live connections are accessible once the terminal block is secured within a back box.

The invention yet further provides a kit of parts for an electrical installation 20 comprising: at least one back box suitable for receiving a feed cable; at least one terminal block adapted to fit within a back box; at least one blanking plate for fitting to or within a back box; and at least one fascia plate comprising one or more connector pins to couple to the terminal block and a user interface to provide electrical function, data input/output or information display.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be described more particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings which show, by way of example only, an exemplifying embodiment of electrical fitting and refers to method of installation in accordance with the invention. In the drawings: Figure 1a is a perspective front elevation of a fascia plate defining a user interface comprising a Type G, switched double socket outlet; Figure lb is a perspective rear elevation of the fascia plate of Figure la, showing the connector block thereof having a terminal block attached thereto (for illustration purposes only); Figure 2 is a detailed perspective view of the terminal block; Figure 3 is a perspective rear elevation similar to that of Figure lb, showing the connector block and connector pins in a Type G plug configuration; Figure 4 is an exploded perspective elevation of the fascia plate, connector block and terminal block of the invention presented as a Type G switched double socket outlet; and Figures 5a, 5b illustrate a ceiling fitment arrangement for a light fitting.

Detailed Description of the Drawings

Referring to the drawings and initially to Figure la and lb, a preferred embodiment of electrical fitting in accordance with the invention comprises a fascia plate 1 presenting a standard 13A, Type G switched double outlet socket having screw fixings 3 for securing the fascia plate 1 to a back box of standard size and shape (not illustrated). The front face of the fascia plate can present any user interface, including Eight switches, fused switches for cooker and immersion heater isolation, audio/visual or satellite connectors and interfaces and control panels for alarm systems or appliance control in a wired or wireless 'smart home' environment The ubiquitous switched double socket outlet is represented here as the most common user interface and comprises plug pin receivers 5 and individual power switches 7 for each socket.

On the rearward facing side of the fascia plate, a connector block 10 is disposed and has connector pins 14 for engaging a terminal block 20 as will be described in more detail with reference to Figure 3. The terminal block 20, normally fixed within the back box but shown in Figure lb engaged with the connector block 10 for illustration, is normally secured to the back box after exposed feed wires from an installation cable have been secured to terminals, which are shown here as screw-fixed terminals 22. Ideally, insulated, over-lever, normally-closed, spring-loaded terminal push-tabs are preferred. This means that after connection, no Live connectors will be accessible once the terminal block 20 is secured to the back box. Guide arms 12 of the connector block 10 align the terminal block 20 with the fascia plate 1 and releasingly secure it thereto.

Figure 2 is a detailed elevation of the terminal block 20 of the invention formed as an open frame having four connector receivers 24, each having associated therewith screw terminals 22 for securing feed wires. Each of the receivers has fixed therein a spring terminal connector 25 biased to grippingly receive the connector pins 14 of the connector block and electrically connecting the feed wires to the respective connector pins 14 of the connector block 10. As noted above, the screw terminals 22 may be replaced by over-lever or push-connect terminals so that no connections are left exposed once the terminal block is screwed or otherwise fixed to the back box. As will be observed, three of the four receivers 24 are disposed in the configuration of a 13A, Type G socket so that at an interim installation stage power may be drawn using a conventional Type G plug before the final fascia plate is fixed in place. The fourth connector receiver 24' may be provided as a live feed for a separate circuit, a ring main terminal or a data or signal connector receiver. Advantageously, the fourth connector receiver 24' may comprise an Ethernet socket for connecting via a LAN (local area network) to the Internet or for data transfer for smart devices within the building.

Alternatively, the connection may be utilised for an alarm system or a USB charging point The terminal block includes at Least one ridge element 27 provided on the Lateral lands thereof to provide a grip for the connector block 10.

In some embodiments, the connector receiver 26 is omitted without impairing the function or safety of the fitting. The connector receivers 24 include spring connectors in this embodiment.

Figure 3 shows the rearward side of the fascia plate 1 on which the connector block 10 is provided. The connector block 10 encapsulates aft of the connections required for the user interface and in the case of a switched socket outlet, includes the electrical connections actuated by the switch rockers 7 and the earth bar for the fixing screws 3. Most significantly, however, the connector block 10 includes rearwardly facing connector pins 14 adapted to engage the corresponding receivers 24 in the terminal block when the fascia plate is mounted for connection to the back box. To help align the pins and receivers, the connector block is provided with spring-biased guide arms 12 each having a slit 17 or detent therein adapted to engage with the ridges 27 provided on the lateral lands of the terminal block. When the terminal block 20 is secured to the back box, the engagement of the ridges 27 with the guide arm slits 17 and engagement of the connector pins 14 within the receivers 24 hold the fascia plate 1 in position so that fixing screws 3 are more easily aligned and screwed into retaining Lugs in the back box side walls than heretofore.

Figure 4 is an exploded view of a fascia plate, connector block and terminal block showing each of the respective components and the alignment of the connector pins 14 with respective receivers 24, guide arms 12 with the Lateral walls of the terminal block and the arm slits 17with the Lateral wall ridges 27. As noted above, the alignment and retention of the connector block 10 with the terminal block not only facilitates alignment of the fixing screws with the respective threaded lugs in a back box but also allows for the screw fixing of the fascia plate to the back box without having to hold the fascia plate in position against accumulated or excess cable coiled within the back box.

Figure 5a illustrates a ceiling fitment for a Eight bulb or the like. The fitment comprises 2 main parts. First, a terminal block 50 which is secured to the ceiling by conventional means.

The wiring necessary, including the loop, passes through the ceiling and is secured to the terminal block 50. The fascia 51 is detachably attached to the terminal block 50. The fascia 51 has connections for the live and the neutral wires 52, 53 and supports a wire 54 from which depends a light source 55. A two-part decorative cover 56 can be secured into position about the fitment, the two parts typically being screwed together. One of the parts can additionally be formed integral with the terminal block 50.

The known disadvantages of existing methods of electrical system installation are discussed in the preamble hereinabove and highlight the labour-intensive nature and the numerous site visits required for a standard installation where self-certification of work may satisfy legislative or regulatory requirements. Where an independent assessment of the installation is required and/or 'snagging work' is required before completion or isign-off, the time involved increases. As much installation work requires coordination with other contractors, scheduling problems and knock-on deiays are frequent and often involve a financial penalty.

By obviating one or more steps in the system installation method and/or by facilitating others, for example, by aliowing system testing or regulatory inspection prior to final installation of electrical fittings, providing power points to other contractors at an earlier stage in the build and facilitating the use of unqualified Labourers or homeowners to fix the fascia plates after decoration, significant savings can be made.

The majority of the skilied work required for electrical system installation happens at the first stage where a consumer unit or distribution box is installed and cabling is fed to selected points throughout a building in accordance with a wiring plan. Where the points are socket outlets, a back box is fixed to a mounting surface or within a recess formed therein. A working length of cable is drawn through the back box for wiring work, that is, exposing connecting wires within the cable and securing them to the corresponding terminals of the terminal block. Similarly, where light fittings are required, a feed is provided to a wall mounted switch (having a back box and a working Length of cable for connection, installed in the same manner as a socket outlet) to a ceiling rose or similar element defining the back box. Cable drawn through the back box may be connected directly to a terminal [Mock. In standard installation, a length of cable may be used as a fall from which the bulb socket depends.

Fused switches, cooker and immersion heater switch points are all points to which cable is fed from the consumer unit or distribution box prior to wiring up the terminal blocks.

Advantageously, concurrent with or immediately after the cabling, any additional wiring for alarm systems, LAN (such as Ethernet), "smart-home" cabling or audio/visual feeds may be installed. Associated back boxes, terminal blocks or outlet connectors may then be provided. Ideally, the back boxes are of identical dimensions, so that interim blanking plates can be used to protect the terminal blocks during final build stages, plastering and decorating.

Once the installer is satisfied that connections to each of the terminal blocks conforms to the wiring plan and the legislative or regulatory requirements, interim blanking plates are fitted to each of the back boxes. The interim blanking plates are reusable or disposable plates adapted ideally to fit into the back boxes (but can fit over the back boxes without departing from the spirit of the invention) to prevent material ingress and to obviate accidental exposure to Live electrical connections during remaining stages of the build. As noted above, the blanking plates ideally engage the terminal blocks in a manner similar to the more aesthetic and functional fascia plates which provide user interface. The blanking plates need not be screwed into position as either the resilience of the push-fit guide elements and retaining ridges or the grip provided by the conductor receivers will ensure they remain in position.

An independent inspector or installation assessor may gain ready access to each terminal block by removing the interim blanking plate and test the connection using standard test equipment or via a provided interface should a modified terminal block be installed. The time advantage of providing connector pin receivers on the terminal block in an identical configuration to a standard plug for the relevant jurisdiction will be ready apparent.

After inspection, decoration or additional build stages have been completed, there is unlikely to be excessive dust present or accidental damage incurred, and the fascia plates may be simply push-fitted and screw-fixed by anyone, without engaging a qualified installer or electrician, as no Live terminals will be exposed and there is no need to touch the terminal block within the back box.

It will of course be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details described herein, which are given by way of example only, and that various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

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Claims (14)

1. CLAIMS: 1. An electrical fitting assembly comprising: a back box suitable for attaching to a mounting surface or securing to a recess formed therein, the back box including a terminal block connectable to conductors for carrying a Live feed, the terminal block having at Least one connector pin receiver; a fascia plate comprising or adapted to present a user controlled or accessed electrical fitting on an outer face thereof and disposed on the inner surface thereof includes a connector block having at Least one connector pin adapted to align and engage with the at least one receiver of the terminal block; and guide elements to align and locate the or each connector pin in its respective /5 receiver.
2. 2. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in Claim 1, in which the terminal block is removably secured to the back box so that wires from a feed cable may be connected with ease and any excess cable or wiring may be fed back into a wall cavity before securing the zo block to the back box.
3. 3. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2, in which the terminal block includes means to facilitate its securing to any standard back box, so that existing installations may be retrofitted with new fittings without removal or substitution of a back 25 boxes.
4. 4. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 3, in which a retrofittable terminal block includes securing means which allow the block to be push-fit into an existing back box, whereby the screw fixing of the terminal block to the back box is 30 obviated.
5. 5. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 4 in which terminal connectors for feed wires are provided with over-Lever securing elements having lever elements formed of an insulation material, so that no live terminals are exposed once the terminal block is secured within the back box.
6. 6. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in any one of Claims 1 to 5, in which the terminal block presents a plurality of connector pin receivers, disposed in an arrangement identical to the standard socket fitting of the relevant jurisdiction.
7. 7. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the terminal block includes guide elements extending outwardly and adapted to receive corresponding guide elements disposed on the connector block.
8. 8. An eLectrical fitting assembLy as claimed in any one of the preceding daims, in which the fascia plate presents the required user interface on its outer face and a connector block appropriate to the designated user function of the fitting on its inner face.
9. 9. An electrical fitting assembly as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in which the connector pins are provided in an arrangement identical. to that of a standard plug fitting of the relevant jurisdiction so as to engage in a manner compliant with all the rules and regulations of that jurisdiction and to facilitate ease of use and market acceptance.
10. 10. A method of electrical system installation that follows recognised and accepted guideLines but that obviates excessive site visits by a qualified instalier or electrician, the method including: connecting a terminaL block to exposed wires from a feed cable operably connectable to a distribution point or consumer unit; fixings the terminal block within the back box; testing the connection to ensure feed to the terminal [Mock meets with requirements; providing a blanking plate for preventing inadvertent access to the terminal block and accumulation of dust, debris or decorating materials within the back box; and mounting and securing a fascia [Apace to the back box to provide the required electrical fitting or user interface.
11. 11. A method of installation for rapidly changing an electrical fitting for repair or decorative purposes without the need to make contact with electrical wires or feed connectors, the method comprising no more than: releasing securing screws fixing a fascia plate to a back box; sliding the fascia plate connector pins and guide elements from within the back box; and reversing the above steps to install a new or replacement fascia plate.
12. 12. A terminal block adapted to fit a standard electrical fitting back box, the terminal block comprising: means for retaining the terminal block within the back box; means for connecting and securing exposed wires from a feed cable; a configuration of connector pin receivers corresponding to the required outlet type to facilitate rapid connection; and retaining elements to engage with guide or gripping elements of a fascia plate.
13. 13. A terminal Nock as claimed in Claim 12, in which the terminai block includes over-lever wire securing elements to facilitate rapid connection of the terminal block and that the over-Lever elements comprise insulating materials so that no live connections are accessible once the terminal Mock is secured within a back box.
14. 14. A kit of parts for an electrical installation comprising: at least one back box suitable for receiving a feed cable; at least one terminal block adapted to fit within a back box; at least one blanking plate for fitting to or within a back box; and at least one fascia plate comprising one or more connected pins to couple to the terminal Mock and a user interface to provide eiectrical. function, data input/output or information display.