Electrical plug and socket securement system

An electrical plug fastener or retention mechanism comprising a system of binding or securing electrical plugs or other connectors to avoid unintentional or accidental disconnection. The retention mechanism comprises a base for connecting to a first cord and a clamp for connecting to a second cord. The clamp and base may be connected via at least one extension bar. The base may be two separate halves with means for connecting to one of the power cords and the clamp may comprise a fixed half and a moveable half enabled to lock to the fixed half.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The field of invention is electrical devices, plugs, retention mechanisms, securement systems, clamps, locks or fasteners, more specifically electrical devices or electrical plugs that prevent unintentional disconnection with a clamp, lock or fastener.

In the field of electric devices and power cords there are many devices such as electric mowers, weed whackers, brush saws, masonry saws, power drills, etc. These devices requite power from an electrical outlet by way of an electrical cord. A typical three pronged 120 volt alternating current (AC) plug (male) is attached by power cord to a device requiring power. A power cord is used to connect the male plug on the device to an outlet requiring that a female plug be connected to the male cord on the device. In some cases, where the device must be used further away from an outlet another cord (extension) may be required to allow for the distance. At each connection toward the outlet, a male and female three-pronged plugs are conjoined. It is important both for work and safety perspectives that the plugged connection remain connected, however, too often plugs may accidentally be disconnected immediately cutting power from a device being used and possible leading to an injury.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a device, fastener, lock, retention mechanism, or clamp for preventing electrical plugs from becoming unintentionally disconnected. Electrical plugs often become unintentionally disconnected when powering mobile equipment, including but not limited to, power tools and outdoor lawn maintenance equipment.

The inventor knows of a mechanism by which two conjoining plugs may be clamped together, which is described in a U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/450,303, filed on Aug. 4, 2014, the disclosure of which is incorporated in its entirety by reference. Ser. No. 14/450,303 references a plug securing system that utilizes a base cylinder that may fit over the power cord on one side (powered device) of a cord plug connection, and a cord clamp on the opposite side (power cord to outlet) of the connection. The base cylinder of the system is attached to the cord clamp via a pair of extensions or bars.

The base cylinder of the mechanism may be physically positioned close to or immediately adjacent to the male plug on the device cord whereby the opposite end of the device may be swung up into a position to effect clamping over the power cord presenting the female plug. The inventor knows of a few differing implementations of the securing mechanism, but a challenge with the system is that it may be difficult to adjust it to a correct distance for securing the plugs together in a manner that they could not still be compromised. Therefore, what is clearly needed is a plug connection securing apparatus that may be adjusted on both sides of the plug connection and that may be implemented onto a connection with less work by the user.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

A purpose of the devices and securement systems described herein is to prevent unintentional separation of two connectors, each of which is attached to a cord. The devices also allow a secure connection between connectors, which remain connected even under significant amounts of force. The devices and securement systems described herein fasten the two connectors together so that accidental disconnection does not occur.

A connector or connecters may be mean any connector, including, but not limited to, plug, socket, jack, electrical plug, electrical connector, cable connecter, male plug, female plug, hermaphrodite connector, video connector, audio connector, pin header connecter, temporary connector, RCA connecter, mount, ethernet connector, electrical power connector, USB connector, power connector, DC connector, phone connector, hybrid connecter, adapter, clip, modular connector, or any other connector know in the art.

A cord or cords may mean any cord or cable, including, but not limited to, electrical cord, power cord, electrical cable, ethernet cord, audio cable, video cable, extension cord, or any other cord or cable known in the art.

Another purpose of the devices and securement systems described herein is primarily to prevent unintentional separation of disconnectable electrical plugs that connect to electrically powered devices or power cords. The devices and securement systems described herein fasten electrical plugs together so that accidental disconnection does not occur. Each device is designed to secure the electrical plugs together in a manner such that they will remain connected until intentionally disconnected. The devices also allow a secure connection between electrical plugs, which remain connected even under significant amounts of force. The devices may be easily engaged or disengaged, yet when engaged, the connection is secure.

Another advantage of the devices and securement systems and described herein is that the systems can be used with connectors and plugs of varying shapes and sizes, so that specially designed plugs are unnecessary for the device to operate. Thus, the securement systems and devices described herein can be used to facilitate and maintain connections between any standard plugs or connectors, and many non-standard plugs or connectors.

Securement system is sometimes referred to herein as a system of securing a connector, or simply a device.

A first side, comprises a base. The base may be any type of hollow base that allows a cord to run through an opening in the middle. Herein, a base may be called a tubular base, a screw base, or a twisting base, as described in further detail herein. The first side can be used interchangeably with any base.

An additional embodiment is disclosed including an electrical connection secure clamp system, comprising a base having a length and a diameter securely connected around a first electrical cord, at least one extension bar, one end rotatably attached to a receptacle on one side of the base and a distal end extending past the first connector and a second connector, enabled to securely attach to a clamp secured around a second power cord attached to the second connector. The extension bar and clamp enabling locking the connectors in an engaged position or disengaging the distal end from the clamp, enabling translation of the extension bar allowing disengagement of the connectors from an engaged position.

The base may be cylindrical, surrounding the first power cord just behind the first connector and includes a locking assembly. The locking assembly may comprise a linear tooth array on an outside surface of the base, aligned with a longitudinal center of the base, an open ended cylindrical jacket installed over the base by fitting the base into a cutout in the jacket. In this embodiment the extension bar is rotatably attached to a receptacle on the jacket, and the jacket is tapered in a direction of the first power cord. The jacket also has at least one groove on an inside surface accommodating one or more teeth arranged parallel with and opposite to the linear tooth array.

A thread nut is provided having threads on an inner surface matching threads on an outer surface of the jacket, wherein the thread nut moves up the threads of the jacket towards the first connector creating pressure enabling engagement between the linear tooth array and the one or more teeth, thereby locking the jacket in place.

The clamp, in this embodiment, may include a moveable half and a fixed half fabricated from a tensile material, the fixed half forming a semi-circle with a first and second end. The extension bar may connect to the fixed half, and the moveable half may connect to the fixed half via a hinge at the first end and a lock and release at the second end. The moveable half may lift off of the fixed half from the second end creating an opening to receive the second power cord enabling the moveable half to close on the second power cord and lock.

In one embodiment, the moveable half consists of a clamp bar, the clamp bar may include a distal threaded end incorporating a threaded nut enabled to translate up and down the threaded end. The threaded nut may have two opposing pins that engage opposing pin receptacles at two spherical ends of a lever enabling the lever to rotate about the pins and translate up and down the threads at the threaded end thereby enabling accommodation of different sized second power cords.

In this embodiment, the fixed half also includes two divots at an outside edge of the semi-circle below the second end. The divots may be positioned to accept the spherical ends of the lever in a closed position and the pin receptacles are offset from a center of the two spherical ends away from a surface of the two spherical ends that engage the divots. With this arrangement, as the lever is pulled down in a closed position against the fixed half, an amount of pressure against the divots increases reaching a maximum amount of pressure immediately before the clamp is fully closed decreasing the distance between the first end and the second end of the fixed half thereby securely locking the clamp bar in place over the second power cord.

An additional embodiment provides that the moveable half may comprise a loop having two ends attached, one end each, at opposing sides of a lever connected at a base end to the second end of the fixed half via a hinge. The loop may be enabled to engage one of a plurality of anchor points fixedly attached to the outside edge of the fixed half in a linear array, thereby replacing position of the divots in the previous embodiment. After engagement of the loop with one of the anchors, the lever is pushed down applying a maximum amount of pressure against the power cord immediately prior to the lever closing in a locked position, thereby decreasing a dimension between the first and second ends of the fixed half. One with skill in the art understands that selection of an anchor to engage the loop defines a size of power cord that is secured within the fixed half.

In most embodiments presented, herein, an additional extension bar may be attached at a second receptacle on an opposing side of the jacket, the additional extension bar enabled to fixedly attach to the fixed half of the clamp.

In one embodiment, a clamp is provided including a fixed half and a moveable half fabricated from a tensile material, the fixed half forming a semi-circle with a first and second end creating an opening for accepting a power cord next to a first electrical connector. At least one extension bar is provided having one bar end fixedly connected to one side of the fixed half and a second distal bar end may extend past a second electrical connector and may rotatably attached to a receptacle on one of two opposing sides of a base surrounding a second power cord connected to the second electrical connector.

With this embodiment, the base is comprised of two equal opposing sides with means to connect the bases together around the second power cord forming a cylinder having a circular cylinder base. In additional embodiment, the two cylinder bases are ellipses and the means for connection enables tightening of the two sides around a variety of power cords having a smaller circumference than the cylinder having circular bases. Additionally, a second extension bar is may be rotatably attached at a second distal end to a second one of the two opposing sides and fixedly attached at a second bar end at a second side of the fixed half opposite the one side.

In this embodiment, the moveable half connects to the fixed half via a hinge at the first end and a lock and release at the second end, wherein the moveable half lifts off of the fixed half from the second end creating an opening to receive the second power cord enabling the moveable half to close on the second power cord and lock. An additional aspect of this embodiment may include a clamp bar fixed to the moveable half at one end, the clamp bar including a distal threaded end incorporating a threaded nut enabled to translate up and down the threaded end, the threaded nut having two opposing pins that engage opposing pin receptacles at two spherical ends of a lever enabling the lever to rotate about the pins and translate up and down the threads at the threaded end thereby enabling accommodation of different sized second power cords.

Additionally, in this embodiment, the fixed half includes two divots at an outside edge of the semi-circle below the second end, the divots may be positioned to accept the spherical ends of the lever in a closed position and the pin receptacles are offset from a center of the two spherical ends away from a surface of the two spherical ends that engage the divots, wherein as the lever is pulled down in a closed position against the fixed half, an amount of pressure against the divots increases reaching a maximum amount of pressure immediately before the clamp is fully closed decreasing the distance between the first end and the second end of the fixed half thereby securely locking the clamp bar in place over the second power cord.

In yet another embodiment a secure clamp system is provided that may include a clamp including a fixed half fabricated from a tensile material, the fixed half forming a semi-circle with a first and second end creating an opening for accepting a power cord next to a first connector. This embodiment includes the loop having two ends attached, one end each at opposing sides of a lever connected at a base end to the second end of the fixed half via a hinge.

An extension bar may be fixedly attached to the fixed half having a distal end extending past the first connector and a second connector rotatably attaching to a base securing a second power cord connected to the second connector. The loop may enabled to engage one of a plurality of anchor points fixedly attached to an outside edge of the fixed half in a linear array below the second end as in the previous embodiment described above, wherein when the loop is engaged with one of the anchors, the lever may be pushed down applying a maximum amount of pressure against the power cord immediately prior to the lever closing in a locked position thereby decreasing a dimension between the first and second ends of the fixed half. In this embodiment selection of a specific anchor to engage the loop defines a size of power cord that is secured within the fixed half.

In this embodiment, the base is comprised of two equal opposing sides with means to connect around the second power cord forming a cylinder having circular cylinder bases. In another embodiment two cylinder bases are ellipses and the means for connection enables tightening of the two sides around a variety of power cords having a smaller circumference than the cylinder having circular bases.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In various embodiments described in enabling detail herein, the inventor provides a unique apparatus for securing an electric plug connection to prevent unintended disconnection. The present invention is described using the following examples, which may describe more than one relevant embodiment falling within the scope of the present invention.

FIG. 1illustrates one embodiment of the securement system or device.FIG. 1shows a first side of the device, which comprises tubular base1. Tubular base1further comprises a hollow cylinder with first opening19, hinge receptacle2aand hinge receptacle2b(not shown), and track3aand track3b. Hinge receptacles2aand2b(not shown) attach to tubular base1via tracks3aand3b, respectively. Hinge receptacles2aand2b(not shown) move slidably forward and backwards on tubular base1via tracks3aand3b, respectively. Tracks3aand3bcan be rails attached to tubular base1, grooves carved into base1, recessed tracks, or any other similar means. A proximal end of bar4aand a proximal end of bar4bconnect to tubular base1through hinge receptacles2aand2b(not shown), and a distal end of bar4aand a distal end of bar4bconnect with clamp5, defining the second side of the device. The second side of the device comprises clamp5, having movable half43and fixed half44. The distal end of bar4aand the distal end of bar4bare connected to movable half43. Clamp5further comprises second opening6, hinge7, pin release9, clip10, and grip13. Clamp5closes with hinge7, which may be any type of hinge, including a ratcheting hinge or any other hinge typically used in clamps. Hinge7closes clamp5securely around different gauges of cords. Hinge7includes rod23and can be released by pin release9. Grip13is permanently attached to movable half43and is located on the opposite side of clamp5as hinge7. Grip13may help a user close clamp5with greater ease, simply grasp the device, or in any other way that is helpful to a user.

When in use, the device may connect any two conjoining connectors, and any cord attached to each connector. In one embodiment, the device may connect to a first plug, which may be a male conjoining plug or female conjoining plug, to a second plug, which may be a male or female conjoining plug. The first plug may be connected to a first power cord, and the second plug may be connected to a second power cord. The first power cord runs through first opening19, and the second power cord runs through opening6. Opening6may be comprised of any durable material, but is more preferably made of rubber or another material with grip that could adhere to the second power cord, thereby holding the second power cord in place. Clip10secures clamp5to the first power cord running through opening19, such that the first power cord may be held in a fixed position. Clip10may also be used to hold either the first power cord, the second power cord, or any other cord at any time for the convenience of the user.

Hinge receptacles2aand2b(not shown) may optionally be able to slide forward and backwards on tubular base1via tracks3aand3b, respectively, so that clamp5can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes of connectors, and so that clamp5is directly behind a second plug. A benefit of clamp5landing directly behind the second plug is that it may provide an additional means to prevent accidental disconnection between a first plug and a second plug, or any two conjoining connectors.

FIG. 2illustrates a side view of an embodiment of the device in a disengaged position and an outline of bar4a. Tubular base1is attached to first cord12arunning through first opening19. First plug11amay be permanently or removably affixed to power cord12aand is directly adjacent to tubular base1. In this illustration, first plug11ais a male plug, and is not attached to a conjoining female plug. Hinge receptacle2aand hinge receptacle2b(not shown) connect with bars4aand4b(not shown), and enables bars4aand4b(not shown) to pivot clamp5(not shown) to an engaged or disengaged position. In this view, the device is disengaged, and bars4aand4b(not shown), are substantially perpendicular to tubular base1, first plug11a, and first cord12a. Dotted outline of bars4aand4b(not shown) and the second side of the device show that bars4aand4b(not shown) pivot via hinge receptacles2aand2b(not shown), such that bars4aand4b(not shown) are substantially parallel to tubular base1, first plug11a, and first cord12a.FIG. 2further illustrates a dotted outline of bars4aand4b(not shown) and the second side of the device when in line with the first side of the device; in this position, the second side of the device and clamp are in an engaged position, such that they can stabilize the connectors and prevent disconnection. The dotted outline illustrates that devices can be moved into an engaged position.

FIG. 3shows a top down view of an embodiment of the device in an engaged position. Bars4aand4bare substantially parallel to tubular base1, such that second opening6of clamp5is substantially aligned with first opening19of tubular base1. First power cord12aruns through first opening19, and second power cord12bruns through second opening6. First plug11amay be permanently, semi-permanently, or removably attached to first power cord12a, and is detachably fixed to second plug11b, which may be permanently, semi-permanently, or removably attached to second power cord12b. First plug11amay be a male plug or female plug, and second plug11bis a conjoining plug that mates with either the male or female plug of11a. Clamp5is butted up against second plug11b, which provides additional stability and may further prevent accidental disconnection between11aand11b. Base1is butted up against first plug11a, which also provides additional stability.

FIG. 4Ais a top view of the device in an engaged position, with one only connector11a. It shows clamp5when it is substantially in line with connector11a.

FIG. 4Bshows a cross-section of one embodiment of clamp5revealing an internal mechanism for one embodiment of clamp5. Here, clamp5comprises movable half43and fixed half44. Grip13is attached to movable half43, and serves as a grip for closing clamp5, or otherwise adjusting the position of movable half43. Dotted outline of movable half43shows clamp5in the open position. Clip10is attached to fixed half44. Clip10may be used to hold the device in a disengaged position when clamp5is not in use, by engaging a first cord (not shown). Clip10may also be used to hold any cord for any reason. The portion of clamp5surrounding opening6may make contact with, and preferably grips, a second cord. Hinge7as illustrated here is a ratcheting hinge. Pin8, and pin release9are also illustrated. When pin release9is depressed, hinge7is released, and clamp5may open and disengage the device, such that conjoining connectors can be disconnected and disengaged with the device. This embodiment is illustrated in more detail inFIG. 5.

FIG. 5is a close-up view of clamp5as shown inFIG. 4B, further illustrating details of this embodiment of hinge7. The hub of hinge7surrounds rod23. Movable half43pivots from rod23to open or close clamp5. Ratcheting teeth22interlock with pin8. When pin8engages ratcheting teeth22, movable half43can only move towards fixed half44(not shown), closing or tightening clamp5. This is because pin8can only move over ratcheting teeth22, not against them. Spring21is connected to pin8at anchor point28b, and is connected to movable half43at28a. Spring21provides tension that holds pin8in an engaged position with ratcheting teeth22. Pin release9is linked to pin8. When pin release9is depressed, clamp5opens. When depressed, pin release9pushes pin8and pin8disengages from ratcheting teeth22, as shown by dotted outline of pin8. When pin8is disengaged, movable half43can move away from fixed half44(not shown) allowing clamp5to open.

A user may open an embodiment of clamp5as shown inFIG. 4AandFIG. 5by depressing pin release9and grasping grip13or movable half43to pull away fixed half44. With the clamp open, the user could remove or add a cord and connecter to the device. A user may close this embodiment of clamp5by simply applying pressure to movable half43or grip13, such that movable half43moves towards fixed half44. Pin8would automatically catch or engage with ratcheting teeth22.

FIG. 6is a top view of the device shown inFIG. 3, with two connectors, first plug11aand second plug11b. Here, dotted outline of bars and second side illustrate that hinge receptacles2aand2bare able to slide back and forth along tubular base1, thereby moving the second side of the device. The second side may be moved, such that clamp5lands directly adjacent to second plug11b. The juxtaposition of clamp5and second plug11bmay ensure a more secure connection between first plug11aand second plug11b, thus further preventing unintentional disconnection between plugs11aand11b, or any two conjoining connectors. The dotted outline of bars and the second side show that clamp5may be pulled away from plug11b.

FIG. 7shows a side view of an embodiment of tubular base1. This embodiment shows that track3may be lined with grooved teeth14. The proximal end of bar4arests in hinge receptacle2, and rests against grooved teeth14. Pawl15is fixed to the proximal end of bar4a. Pawl15can be a pin, catch, tooth, or similar component. Bar4ais perpendicular to tubular base1. In this position, pawl15is disengaged from groove teeth14, which allows bar4ato slide back and forth along track3. Bar4ais not shown in its entirety because it is not necessary to show the second side of the device.

FIG. 8shows an embodiment of tubular base1as illustrated inFIG. 7when bars4aand4b(not shown) have pivoted around hinge receptacle2, such that bar4ais in line with tubular base1. When bar4ais parallel to tubular base1, pawl15pivots, such that it now engages groove teeth14, and bar4ais locked in the desired position. This locking mechanism may provide additional stability to the second side, and may further help to prevent disengagement of connectors.

FIG. 9Ais a top view of another embodiment of first side. This embodiment illustrates the first side comprising conical encasement17and tubular encasement20. First power cord12aruns through the center of conical encasement17and tubular encasement20. Conical encasement17is attached to a screw top or twist top, such that when tightened a screw top or twist top may lock bars4aand4binto a particular position, preventing them from moving back and forth. Encasement20encloses moving parts of the locking mechanism as depicted inFIG. 10.

FIG. 9Bis a side view of the devices ofFIG. 9Aturned 90 degrees. The dotted line illustrates the cross-sectional view shown inFIG. 10,FIG. 11, andFIG. 12.

FIG. 10is a cross-section showing how the depicted embodiment of the invention may function. First cord12aruns through the first side, which comprises screw top30, base screw16, and flexible side body42. Base screw16has multiple threads which engage threads at the proximal end of screw top30. Screw top30engages base screw16, such that when screw top30is turned, the distal end of screw top30applies inward pressure to flexible side body42. Flexible side body42is comprised of a slightly flexible material, including but not limited to plastic, rubber, metal alloy, aluminum, tin, steel or any other suitable material. Exterior teeth18(not shown) are attached to flexible side body42. Interior teeth40(not shown) are attached to bars4aand4band are in close proximity to exterior teeth18(not shown). When the distal end of screw top30applies enough pressure to flexible side body42, exterior teeth18(not shown) interlock with interior teeth40(not shown), such that bars4aand4bare fixed in position and will not slide forward or backwards.

When using an embodiment ofFIGS. 9A and 9B, as further illustrated inFIG. 10, a user may slide bars4aand4bback and forth to adjust the location of the second side to determine a desired position. After determining a desired position, a user may lock bars4aand4binto position by grasping and twisting conical encasement17, which is attached to and turns screw top30until screw top30applies enough pressure to flexible side body42to cause exterior teeth18to interlock with interior teeth40.

FIG. 11is another embodiment of the first side in a locked position. Here, base screw16and screw top30ofFIG. 10are replaced with twisting base34having single groove26, twisting top24, and notch25. Twisting top24moves notch25along groove26. As notch25travels down groove26, twisting top24moves downward, which causes the distal end of24to apply increasing pressure to flexible side body42. Here, notch25is in a locked position, and the distal end of twisting top24applies enough pressure to flexible side body42to cause exterior teeth18to interlock with interior teeth40. Thus, bars4aand4bare fixed in position and will not slide forward or backwards. This embodiment may allow bars4aand4bto become engaged and disengaged more efficiently than the embodiment shown inFIG. 10B, because doing so requires less motion to lock exterior teeth18with interior teeth40.

FIG. 12shows the device ofFIG. 11in an unlocked position. Notch25is at the top endpoint of groove26. This position releases pressure on flexible side body42such that exterior teeth18are disengaged from interior teeth40.

FIG. 13shows a view of the twisting base34unrolled as groove pattern35. Notch25of twisting top24is depicted, and interlocks with groove26. Groove pattern35is an unrolled view of the full circumference of groove26illustrating an incline and divot27. Notch25slides along groove26, and in relation, moves twisting top24into, or out of, an engaged position. Divot27at the top of groove26holds notch25in an engaged position.

When using an embodiment ofFIGS. 9A and 9B, as further illustrated inFIGS. 11, 12 and 13, a user may slide bars4aand4bback and forth to adjust the location of the second side to determine a desired position. After determining a desired position, a user may lock bars4aand4binto position by grasping and twisting conical encasement17, which is attached to and turns twisting top24until twisting top24applies enough pressure to flexible side body42to cause exterior teeth18to interlock with interior teeth40. This typically occurs when notch25is in a locked position. In some embodiments, a user may engage or disengage with as little as an approximately 90 degree turn of conical encasement17, as much as a 360 degree turn of conical encasement17, and preferably a180turn of conical encasement17.

FIG. 14shows another embodiment similar to the device shown inFIG. 1. In this embodiment, tubular base1further comprises split37and screws36aand36bthat hold tubular base1together. Split37and screws36aand36bmay also allow the device to be applied as an aftermarket application. While this embodiment shows two screws, other embodiments could have as few as one screw and as many as five screws to enable aftermarket application to a cord. Additionally, split37could also be secured in a closed position by one or more magnets, one or more loops, one or more clasps, one or more fasteners, or any other means known in the art.

FIG. 15is a front view of tubular base1similar to the one depicted inFIG. 14. In this case, only one screw holds split37. Here, split37is on one side of tubular base1, which further comprises a loop or other means to attach screw36b. Screw36bis held in place with nut39, and holds split37together.

FIG. 16illustrates a semi-permanently applicable embodiment where the first side comprises clamp5a, which further comprises second opening6, hinge7, pin release9, clip10, and grip13. Clamp5aalso illustrates movable half43and fixed half44. Clamp5bmay comprise the same components of clamp5a, and further comprises hinge receptacles2aand2b. Clamp5bis optionally a means to enable bars4aand4bto move in relation to clamp5a, such that clamp5acan be adjusted forwards and backwards, as to accommodate connectors of varying sizes. Any means of enabling bars4aand4bto move back and forth in relation to the second side as described herein are also applicable to this embodiment.

FIG. 17is a perspective view of a plug connection securing clamp system100according to an embodiment of the present invention. Plug securing clamp system100is provided to secure the connection of a male and female plug, depicted herein as a first male plug48aand a second female plug48b. Plug securing clamp system100may be referred to hereinafter in this specification as clamp system100or simply as clamp system100.

Clamp system100includes a base point locking assembly41on one side (powered appliance) and a cam clamp assembly on the opposite side (power cord to outlet). An appliance or device may include power tools (drills, saws, blowers), service nodes (candy machines, slot machines, information kiosks), utilities (washer, Dryer, heater, refrigerator). Base point locking assembly41and cam clamp57are connected by a first extension bar46aand a second extension bar46b. Extension bars46aand46bmay be fabricated from aluminum, or another metal bar or may be a resilient molded product made of a durable polymer without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In one embodiment extension bars46aand46bare metal rods formed or bent (segmental) to clear the plug connection comprising plug48aand plug48b. In another embodiment extension bars46aand46bmay be accurate or parabolic in form without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Base locking assembly41includes a base cylinder50having an inner diameter that is just larger than the outer diameter of the first power cord47a(device side) such that it may be installed over the power cord at the time of production or as an aftermarket application with some modification that will be detailed later in this specification. Base cylinder50includes a first stop flange45aand a second stop flange45bformed or otherwise fabricated at each end of the cylinder body. Stop flanges45aand45bfunction to prevent a tapered cylinder jacket53from sliding off the base cylinder after installation of the jacket over the cylinder.

Tapered cylinder jacket53may be installed over base cylinder50such that it may freely slide over the cylinder but be stopped from sliding off the cylinder by the stop flanges as described immediately above. Cylinder jacket53may be somewhat conical in form being of a larger outer diameter at the forward side (facing plug) and smaller in diameter at the rearward side. In a preferred embodiment, the outer periphery of cylinder jacket53may be threaded to accept a turn nut56. Cylinder jacket53and has a longitudinal cutout sufficiently large enough to enable installation of the jacket over and onto the base cylinder by expanding the jacket and snapping in onto the cylinder between the stop flanges at either end of the base cylinder. Once installed it may freely slide back and forth over the cylinder between the flange stops.

In this implementation base cylinder jacket has extension bar receptacles49aand49blocated in a fixed position, one each on opposite sides of the base cylinder jacket53. Receptacles49aand49bfunction to accept ends of extension bars46aand46bso they may pivot freely.

Base cylinder50includes a first linear tooth array51astrategically aligned with longitudinal center of the cylinder. Base cylinder50has a second linear tooth array51bstrategically located opposite of tooth array51aand in alignment with longitudinal center of the cylinder. Cylinder jacket53includes a pair opposing longitudinal grooves (not depicted here)

formed on the inside wall of the jacket. The grooves may be aligned over the tooth arrays when installing cylinder jacket53over base cylinder50. The grooves may include one or more teeth symmetrically aligned relative to both grooves that may be urged inward relative to the inner diameter of the jacket to catch onto tooth arrays51a(visible) and51b(not visible). Turn nut56has threading about its inner wall that matches the outer threading on jacket53. The inner diameter of turn nut56at the small end is sufficiently large enough to clear the first stop flange45aso that the turn nut56may be installed over and engaged to jacket53.

In this implementation, jacket53may be urged inward by advancing turn nut56such that the grooves and tooth pattern on the inside wall of jacket53closes over tooth arrays51aand51bto cause opposing tooth engagement and lock of jacket53in a desired position on base cylinder50. Extension bars46aand46bare pivotally attached to jacket53and therefore adjustment of the jacket over the base cylinder determines the distance of cam clamp57relative to second plug48b. This feature accommodates plugs of differing lengths a provides an incremental method of setting a proper distance for cam clamp57on the distal end of the apparatus. Extension bars46aand46bmay or may not pivotally attach to cam clamp main clamp ring58. In one implementation, extension bars46aand46bmay be bridged together by one or more cross members such that they both may swing or pivot down in tandem and back up relative to base mechanism41.

Cam clamp57includes a main clamp ring58. Clamp ring58is open at the top and at both ends. Clamp ring58may be fabricated of a resilient but flexible metal or other material having the ability to flex inward somewhat and then spring back out to an original state. Clamp ring58may have an inner component or cord grip material70. Material70may be a rubber material, a cork material or a similar material that may expand and contract under clamp operation. Cord material70may be in the form of an insert that is annular and has an inner diameter that is large enough to accept power cord47b. In one implementation, material70may be a thick coating of material adhered to the inside wall of clamp ring58whereby a passage through which power cord47bmay pass through may be formed. In this implementation, there is a cutout portion that provides enough relief area to accept the diameter of cord47binto its center.

Cam clamp57includes a clamp bar59. Clamp bar59may be provided of a steel material, an aluminum material or another durable material that may hold a thread. In this implementation, clamp bar59has a length that exceeds the overall width of cam clamp57and has external threads60proximal to one end. Clamp bar59may be attached to main clamp ring58via a hinge pin (not visible). Clamp57includes a cam lever62. Cam lever62is strategically shaped to interface with a pair of divots provided at the lever interfacing side of main clamp ring58. Clamp lever62may be installed onto clamp bar59via a threaded lever nut65having external mounted pins (not visible) for insertion into openings provided on the inside surface of the lever. Lever62includes a cut out relief portion to enable the lever to clear the clamp bar in operation.

Cam clamp lever62may be threaded onto threading60at the free end of clamp bar59via lever nut65and may be advanced or retracted along the threading60in order to adjust the resistance of the lever against main clamp ring58to affect a tighter or looser clamping of power cord47bin operation. Lever62has rounded base parts that fit radially into divots provided in main clamp ring58through forming or machining. In this embodiment

FIG. 18is an end view of lever-controlled cam clamp57ofFIG. 1depicting a closed and an open position. Cam clamp57is viewed from one end in this example and includes a power cord grip that has been discussed in one or more parent specifications to this specification. Referring now toFIG. 1included herein at least by reference cord clip10is depicted and described and therefore shall retain the same element number and serves the same function previously described. Cam lever62includes a rounded top surface or interfacing bulb63that fits radially into a divot67on the interface portion of main clamp ring58. Interfacing bulb63is circular and may or may not be symmetrical. Additionally, Cord grip material70may be of a larger or smaller inner diameter without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In a preferred embodiment, a power cord such as cord47bwill have an outer diameter just small enough to enable the cord to pass through the inner diameter of cord grip material70when cam clamp57is in the open position. Threaded lever nut65(broken Boundary) enables a user to adjust the clamping force of clamp57via threading60on clamp bar59. Clamp bar59is attached via hinge pin64(broken boundary).

A user may lift up on cam lever62in the direction of the adjacent directional arrow (broken line) to loosen clamp57. Clamp bar59and lever62may be lifted up and off of main clamp ring58to the elevated position as denoted herein by a second directional arrow and broken boundary lines representing lever62disengaged with the clamp and the second directional arrow indicating pivot about hinge pin64. Cord grip material70may be a permanent of semi-permanent material adhered to the inside of main clamp ring58via a glue. In one implementation, cord grip material70may be an insert that may be one of one or more available inserts of differing inside diameters for accepting and gripping power cords of different diameters.

FIG. 19depicts a left side view and a right end view of base clamp turn nut56ofFIG. 17. Turn nut56may be manufactured of a durable polymer or a metal that accepts threading. Turn nut56is somewhat conical or having taper from a larger diameter to a smaller diameter. Turn nut56has internal threading88about the inside wall. Internal threading88matches external threading66depicted inFIG. 21for cylinder jacket53. In the end view, surface of internal threading88is visible. Threading may be tapered and course for the purpose of advancing the turn nut onto the threaded exteriors of the cylinder jacket whereby the cylinder jacket may be urged inward to lock the jacket in a linear position over the base cylinder depicted inFIG. 20and to clamp the assembly over a power cord on the appliance side of the lager apparatus.

In one embodiment turn nut56may be installed over a power cord before a power plug is installed on the cord. In another embodiment turn nut56may include a cutout along its length of sufficient width to enable installment of the nut onto a power cord that already has a plug connected. In another embodiment, turn nut56may comprise two pieces that are connected by a hinge whereby the nut may be opened and then closed over the power cord snapping shut to provide the annular nut for threading one the jacket53.

FIG. 20depicts a left side view and a right end view of base cylinder50ofFIG. 17. Base cylinder50includes opposing linear tooth arrays51aand51band stop flanges45aand45b. In one implementation for aftermarket appliances and devices, cylinder50includes a slit or linear cut89through one cylinder wall to enable cylinder50to be expanded for aftermarket installation over a power cord having a plug on the end. Through slit or linear cut89may be relatively wide such that the cylinder may be expanded to cause the cut to attain a width just larger than a power cord over which the cylinder may be installed. In this case, the cylinder may be manufactured of a spring steel so that it may be expanded and may retract of its own accord once over the power cord. In one embodiment, cylinder50may be a two-piece cylinder that is hinged and that includes a snap lock hardware so that it may be unlocked, opened via hinge and then closed over a power cord and locked such that it remains firmly on the cord.

Cylinder50may be manufactured with an inside diameter that is just smaller than the outside diameter of the power cord so that it has sufficient frictional contact with the power cord so as not to slide without force applied. In one implementation, the inside diameter of cylinder50may be coated with rubber or another material to make gripping the power cord easier. Other architectures for cylinder50may be considered without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention such as two-piece assembly that may be bolted or snapped together over the power cord.

FIG. 21depicts a left side view and a right end view of base clamp cylinder jacket53ofFIG. 17. Jacket53may be tapered or somewhat conical with reference to the outer wall profile. The tapered external wall may be threaded with threads66that match the internal threads88on the inner wall of turn nut56. Therefore, advancing the turn nut causes the jacket to contract over the base cylinder is its aligned position. One end of jacket53is fitted with stopper68to prevent the turn nut from coming off the jacket. If Jacket53is tapered stopper68is situated at the tapered end of jacket53.

Jacket53may be manufactured of a resilient material that may be expanded physically to install it over the base cylinder wherein the jacket resumes its original dimensions after release over the cylinder. Jacket53includes a cutout69through the outer wall breaking out into the center of the piece enabling the expansion. Cutout69enables jacket53to be expanded over the base cylinder.

Jacket53includes opposing grooves85a(first groove) and85b(second groove) that may be aligned over first tooth array51aand second tooth array51bof cylinder50ofFIG. 20. In one implementation, grooves85aand85balign with tooth arrays of the base cylinder and the grooves are slightly larger in width than the width of the tooth arrays enabling such alignment when the jacket is installed over the base cylinder.

In the same implementation, grooves85aand85bmay contain one or more teeth or apertures that may make contact with the tooth arrays when the turn nut is advanced a certain distance over the jacket causing the jacket to lock in its linear position over the base cylinder. In one embodiment, the bottoms of groves85aand85bcontain a ridge pattern so that when the jacket is urged inward via advancing the turn nut there over, the ridges make contact with the tooth arrays to lock the jacket into its linear position on the base cylinder.

It will be apparent to one with shill in the art that tapers and angles may vary relative to threaded surfaces of the jacket and turn nut without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. It will also be apparent to one with skill in the art hat cutout69may extend only partially along the jacket and does not have to extend the total length of the jacket. Moreover, in such an implementation there may be more than one cut out in jacket53to ease closing of the jacket over the tooth arrays on the base cylinder wherein those cutouts do not extend the entire length of the jacket so as not to split the piece into two or more pieces. For example, one or more cutouts69may extend only to the flange portion of the jacket so that the jacket is held together.

FIG. 22is a process flow chart depicting steps for installing the plug and socket securing system ofFIG. 17onto conjoined male and female plugs according to an embodiment of the present invention. At step201a user may install threaded turn nut over a power cord connected to a powered appliance with the wide end facing the plug. In one embodiment, the user may install the nut before installing a plug to the power cord. In another embodiment, the architecture of the nut allows for opening the nut and then closing it over a power cord via hinge and snap lock or via a longitudinal cutout provided in the nut in order to clear the diameter of the cord that already has a plug installed in an aftermarket application.

At step202the use may install or place a base cylinder over the power cord of the powered appliance or device such as base cylinder50ofFIG. 20. The base cylinder may be designed with a through slot running its length to enable expansion out of the cylinder to overcome the diameter of the power cord. A solid cylinder with no through slot or cutout may be installed before a plug is installed in an OEM embodiment. In one embodiment, a user may install the based cylinder and turn nut over the power cord before adding a plug at the end.

At step203the user may place the cylinder jacket over the base cylinder. The cylinder jacket may include a cutout that allows it to be physically expanded to accept a standard power cord by way of a longitudinal cutout for example physically pressing the cord through the gap left by the through slot. There may be more than one longitudinal cutout along the length of the cut out as long as the rest of the jacket is connected at one end. At step204, the user may connect the male and female plugs together before making adjustments to form the base lock assembly. A this point the first and second plugs may be engaged at step204.

At step205, the user may position the base cylinder with the cylinder jacket installed there over proximal to or adjacent to the first plug. At this juncture, the jacket is freely slidable over the base cylinder so the user may gauge distance relative to the cam clamp at the distal end of the apparatus to determine where the jacket should be on the base cylinder before proceeding. The extension bars46aand46bconnected to the cam clamp will freely pivot at the connections to the cylinder jacket.

At step206, the user may start the threaded turn nut onto the cylinder jacket and advance the nut some distance onto the assembly but shy of locking the parts together relative to linear relationship.

At step207, the user may pivot the rest of the apparatus namely the extension bars and open cam clamp into position over the power cord leading to outlet and then may close the cam clamp over the other power cord locking the connected plugs together preventing them from being unintentionally disconnected. Here the cylinder jacket is still slidable over the base cylinder so that fine tune adjustment may be made.

At step208, the user may visually select a linear position of the cylinder jacket over the base cylinder and may advance the turn nut at step209until the cylinder jacket is locked onto the teeth of the base cylinder. At this point the user may gauge distance relative to where the cam clamp is connected on the other side of the plug connection and make subsequent adjustments if necessary by backing the turn nut off and repositioning the cylinder jacket relative to the base cylinder and re-advancing the turn nut to lock the components together. The user may at any time readjust the linear position of the cylinder jacket over the base cylinder by loosening the turn nut and re-positioning the cylinder jacket and then re-advancing the turn nut to lock it down over the base cylinder. The process ends at step210. Reverse procedure may be unlocking the cam clamp by lifting up the cam lever to disconnect the female plug (second plug).

The user may leave the apparatus connected to the power cord of the appliance until next use. In one embodiment where the components are designed for aftermarket application, the user may remove them and store or use for another appliance.

FIG. 23is a perspective view of components of cam clamp57ofFIG. 17. Cam clamp57includes a clamp ring58with cord grip material70positioned to accept a power cord. Clamp ring58includes a mounting post for mounting clamp bar59to the clamp ring via hinge pin64. Openings provided at least on the inside walls of the mounting post may be through holes or blind holes without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The openings are sufficiently large in diameter to enable free rotation of the clamp bar at the pivot point or hinge pin64.

Cam lever62mounts to threaded lever nut65. Lever nut65may be threaded back and forth along threading at the end of the bar clamp. Adjusting the lever nut may be performed with lever62mounted or not. Lever62includes round or radial interfacing spherical bulbs63that fit into divots67on the interfacing side of the posts on main clamp ring58. The divots are positioned to accept the spherical ends of the lever in a closed position and the pin receptacles are offset from a center of the two spherical ends away from a surface of the two spherical ends that engage the divots, wherein as the lever is pulled down in a closed position against the fixed half, an amount of pressure against the divots increases reaching a maximum amount of pressure immediately before the clamp is fully closed decreasing the distance between the first end and the second end of the fixed half thereby securely locking the clamp bar in place over the second power cord.

In one embodiment hinge pin64and lever nut65may be spring loaded assemblies whereby an internal spring mechanism enables the pins to be collapsed for installation of clamp bar59onto main clamp ring58and lever62. Lever62has a relief area of material removed for the purpose of clearance of the threaded end of bar59when opening and closing the clamp. The interfacing lever posts include a rounded or radial top surface71that interfaces with the top round surface of spherical bulb63on lever62.

Cord grip material70may be in the form of an insert that may be stuck onto the inner wall of clamp ring58via catch posts (not visible) to hold it in place within the clamp ring. In one implementation, material70may be glued permanently to the inner wall of clamp ring58.

FIG. 24is an end view of a grip-adjustable cam clamp86set to a minimum grip state according to an embodiment of the present invention. Cam clamp86utilizes a catch ring72in place of a clamp cross bar analogous to bar59ofFIG. 23.FIG. 25is an end view of cam clamp86ofFIG. 24set to a maximum grip state. Referring now toFIG. 25, catch ring72is in the form of an elongate ring or hook (overhead depiction) that may be pivotally attached to cam clamp lever87via a catch ring hinge pin74.

Referring toFIG. 24, catch posts73may be manufactured of steel pin stock with a hook effect or feature at the catch end of the pin. The mounting end of the pin may be press fit into suitable opening provided in clamp ring. Catch posts73may be equally spaced apart in a linear array. There are four catch posts73in this example however, there may be fewer or more catch posts provided.

Catch ring72may be manufactured of steel wire material or another durable material that may be formed and that may hold a formed shape or profile such as the loop profile of this example. Catch ring72may be more or less annular than the elliptical profile depicted here without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Other shapes may be emulated such as rectangular. The only requirement is that the inner portion of the ring be sufficiently wide to clear the width of the catch post array.

In this example, clamp86is closed and catch ring72is latched onto the most proximal catch post available in the linear array. Cam clamp lever87is rotatably attached to mounting posts of main clamp ring58via lever hinge pin75. This is indicative of a minimum setting in adjustment of the clamp for the force needed to close the clamp using lever87. At this setting the cam lever can be used (minimum force required) to clamp onto a power cord.

FIG. 25is an end view of cam clamp86ofFIG. 24set to a maximum grip state. Clamp86is in in a closed state with catch ring72hooked onto the most distal catch post73in the array. In this position, it requires the most force by the user to open and close the clamp over a power cord. The cam mechanics of the lever and clamp ring (radial surfaces and divot interfaces) reduce the friction and resistance of operating the lever.

In this example, it may be seen that several different diameters of power cords may be clamped on to without requiring an adjustment between opening and closing the cam clamp. In one implementation in place of catch ring hinge pin74, there may instead be two opposing ring posts that catch ring72may mount two at either side of lever87.

FIG. 26is an overhead view of a plug connection securing apparatus200according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus200includes clamp57. In this view clamp57is closed over second power cord47b. In one implementation using clamp57, the opposite side of apparatus200may include a one-piece base cylinder93. Base cylinder93may be somewhat analogous in basic construction to base cylinder1ofFIG. 3in this specification with an exception that a stop bolt90is provided to stop the cylinder from sliding over the power cord once clamp57is in a closed state.

Stop bolt90has external threading that may match to internal threading provided in a through bolt housing91. Housing91may be installed onto either track88aor88bin this example to provide the stop function. The width of tracks88aand88bare just larger than the diameter of threaded bolt90so the bolt may freely slide through the tracks when the bolt is not tightened against the bottom of the instant track, which is the stop function in this implementation.

Tracks88aand88bmight extend the entire length of base cylinder93breaking out at both ends of the cylinder. In another embodiment, the tracks may be blind to one side of the cylinder, typically the rear side opposite of plug48a. Base cylinder93may be installed over first power cord47abefore plug48ais wired to the cord. In another implementation base cylinder93may include a longitudinal through slot that enables expansion of the cylinder over the power cord whereby the cylinder springs back to its original diameter once release over the cord.

Base cylinder93may be urged to abut against the back face of first plug (male)48abefore clamp57is pivoted up to power cord47band closed or clamped over the cord. Once clamp57is closed extension bars46aand46bmay not slide within tracks88aand88bdue to clamp57being clamped tightly over power cord47b. In this case, stop bolt through housing91may be urged to abut against extension bar46aand extension receptacle49a. Without stop bolt90cylinder93may slide away from the back face of plug48a. A user may hold base cylinder93against the back face of plug48aand allowing the ends of first bar46aand second bar46bto rest in the tracks at that position. To then stop the cylinder from separating from the plug, the stop bolt may be tightened against the track bottom to function more as a cylinder stop to keep it in position against the back of plug48a.

In use of this embodiment of the invention, a user may first slide base cylinder93up against the back faces of first plug48a. The user may then connect second plug48bto the first plug. The user may then swing the extension bars along with attached cam clamp57up and into position to clamp over the second power cord while maintaining the position of cylinder93against the back face of plug48aphysically. Once clamp57is closed, the user may slide bolt housing91up to and adjacent to first extension bar46aand tighten bolt90against the bottom surface of track88athereby locking the base cylinder into place relative to the reward position of the extension bars and preventing any slippage.

It is apparent to one with skill in the art that base cylinder93does not actually clamp to first power cord47aand that the cylinder is prevented from separating from its abutment against plug48aonly by the stop bolt assembly. In one embodiment, there may be two stop bolts90including accompanying hardware with one assembly on each track without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In still another embodiment there may be two cam clamps57a forward clamp and a reward clamp without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

FIG. 27is a partial perspective view depicting a base cord clamp81for a plug and socket securing system according to a further embodiment of the present invention. Base cord clamp81may be similar in some respects to base cylinder1described relative toFIG. 14included above in this specification with a few exceptions one of which is that there are no tracks or groves required and a larger width cutout96is provided to enable aftermarket installation over power cord47a. In this implementation base clamp cylinder94has extension bar receptacles49aand49blocated in a fixed position on the cylinder body and therefore do not side but may allow the ends of bars46aand46bto pivot freely.

It may be assumed that a cam clamp such as clamp57is connected at the distal side of the overall apparatus (not shown). In one embodiment, base clamp81may be installed before plug45ais added. Plug48ais depicted with a top plate82removed by loosening clamp screws95aand95b. In this way, base clamp cylinder94may be installed and then the user may install plug48aby removing the top for inside access to wiring locations for hot wire, ground wire, and a neutral wire (dotted line depiction).

Base clamp cylinder94may be tightened around power cord47ausing first clamp screw97aand second clamp screw97b. There may be one clamp screw or more than one clamp screw provided to close clamp cylinder94without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In general use of the invention in this embodiment, a user may install clamp cylinder94onto power cord47a. In the case of before market manufacturing, the user may then install (wiring) plug48ato power cord47avia removal of plate82followed by wiring the correct connections together within the plug body.

FIG. 28is a right end view of a two-piece base cord clamp101as an alternative embodiment to cut base clamp cylinder94ofFIG. 27. Cord clamp101includes a first half cylinder98aand a second half cylinder98b. Half cylinders98aand98bmay be manufactured of a steel or other metals or of a durable polymer material. Extension bars are not illustrated in this view but may be assumed present and connected to receptacles49aand49bas inFIG. 27. In this implementation bolts99aand99balong with nuts102aand102bmay be used to clamp the two halves over a power cord.

In one implementation, there may be more than two screws and nuts provided for clamping the two halves together over a power cord. For example, four screws and nuts with two side-by-side on the top and two side-by-side at the bottom. The actual profile of half cylinders98aand98bare less than half round such that cord clamp101may be used on a variety of different diameter power cords. The inside surfaces of half cylinders98aand98bmay be coated with a rubber or other non-frictional material for improving grip on the power cord without damaging the cord.

It will be apparent to one with skill in the art that there may be variant architectures and hardware additions that may be provided to the base cord clamp assembly without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, such as provision of gaskets or grommets to accommodate power cords of varying sizes. In one embodiment, a ring gasket might be provided with a hose clamp device to constrict the ring gasket down onto the power cord adjacently to a base cylinder, for example.

FIG. 29is a perspective view of a plug connection securing clamp system100according to an embodiment similar to that shown inFIG. 17. Assembly41and assembly57are connected by a first extension bar52, only. This description does not preclude other arrangements of clamps and bases implementing a single extension bar. For example, assembly41may be connected via at least one extension bar to assembly57or base81ofFIG. 27or cord clamp101ofFIG. 28, or even a clamp as depicted inFIGS. 24-25. Virtually any arrangement between any of the clamps and bases disclosed in the present invention may be connected by one or two extension bars.

It will be apparent to the skilled person that the arrangement of elements and functionality for the invention is described in different embodiments in which each is exemplary of an implementation of the invention. These exemplary descriptions do not preclude other implementations and use cases not described in detail. The elements and functions may vary, as there are a variety of ways the hardware may be implemented within the scope of the invention. The invention is limited only by the breadth of the claims below.