Abstract:
An electrical distribution apparatus comprises a body and a mounting bracket attached to the body. The mounting bracket is adapted to install the body within an electrical box. A plurality of terminals are disposed within the body and adapted to terminate a power cable. A terminal guard is mounted on the body and movable about a hinge between an open position and a closed position, where at least a portion of the terminals are accessible in the open position and covered in the closed position.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS  
       [0001]    This application relates to and claims the benefit of prior U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/383,269 entitled Safety Plug-In Module Electrical Distribution System, filed May 23, 2002, and prior U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/441,852 entitled Safety Module Electrical Distribution System, filed Jan. 21, 2003, both incorporated by reference herein. 
     
    
     
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    Standard AC electrical systems are comprised of an electrical box and an electrical device, such as an outlet or switch, installed within the box. During a roughing phase of construction, electrical boxes are mounted to wall studs at predetermined locations. After the boxes are installed, a journeyman electrician routes power cables through building framing to the appropriate boxes. The power cable is fed through openings in the rear or sides of the electrical boxes and folded back into the boxes, unterminated, so as to be out of the way until the next phase. During a makeup phase, wall panels are installed and painted, and the journeyman returns to the construction site to install the electrical devices into the boxes. After conductors are wired to an electrical device, it and the attached conductors are pushed into the electrical box and the device is attached to the top and bottom of the box with screws. During a trim phase, face plates are mounted over the open-end of the electrical boxes, completing the standard electrical wiring process.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0003]    One aspect of an electrical distribution terminal guard is an electrical distribution apparatus comprising a body and a mounting bracket attached to the body and adapted to install the body within an electrical box. A plurality of terminals are disposed within the body and adapted to terminate a power cable. A terminal guard is mounted on the body and movable about a hinge between an open position and a closed position, where at least a portion of the terminals are accessible in the open position and covered in the closed position.  
           [0004]    In a particular embodiment, a latch is configured to maintain the terminal guard in the closed position until manually moved to the open position. The terminal guard is mounted on a side portion of the body and covers a plurality of terminal screws in the closed position. A second terminal guard is mounted on an opposite side portion of the body and provides covered access to at least a second portion of the terminals. The terminals are in electrical communication with a plurality of electrical outlets.  
           [0005]    Another aspect of an electrical distribution terminal guard is a an electrical distribution method comprising the steps of providing an electrical distribution apparatus having wiring terminals and opening a terminal guard on the apparatus so as to access terminal screws. Further steps include securing a power cable to said terminals with the screws, closing the terminal guard so as to block the terminals, and installing the apparatus within an electrical box. The opening step may comprise the substeps of unlatching the terminal guard and moving the terminal guard about a hinge from a closed position to an open position. The closing step may comprise the substeps of moving the terminal guard about the hinge from the open position to the closed position and pressing a latch into a corresponding catch so as to retain the terminal guard in the closed position.  
           [0006]    A further aspect of an electrical distribution terminal guard is an electrical distribution apparatus comprising a plurality of outlets configured to accept a plurality of electrical plugs and a plurality of terminal blocks electrically connected to the outlets. A plurality of terminal screws are configured to attach wires to the terminal blocks so as to transfer electrical power to the outlets. A plurality of terminal guards have closed positions blocking the terminal screws and open positions allowing access to the terminal screws. In one embodiment the terminal guards comprise hinges providing movement between the closed positions and the open positions. In a particular embodiment, the terminal guards are secured in the closed positions with latches and corresponding catches. The terminal guards may further comprise mounts for securing the terminal guards to a cover, and the terminal guards may be mounted on opposite side portions of the cover. Further, each of said terminal guards may be disposed over at least two of the terminal screws in their closed positions.  
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0007]    FIGS.  1 A-B are perspective views of an outlet module installed and removed, respectively, from a corresponding wiring module;  
         [0008]    FIGS.  2 A-B are perspective views of a switch module installed and removed, respectively, from a corresponding wiring module;  
         [0009]    FIGS.  3 - 8  are perspective views of an outlet module and outlet module components;  
         [0010]    FIGS.  3 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of an outlet module;  
         [0011]    FIGS.  4 A-B are exploded, front perspective views of outlet modules;  
         [0012]    FIGS.  5 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of an outlet module front cover;  
         [0013]    FIGS.  6 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of an outlet module back cover;  
         [0014]    FIGS.  7 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of an outlet module power contact set;  
         [0015]    FIGS.  8 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of an outlet module ground contact set;  
         [0016]    FIGS.  9 - 15  are perspective views of a switch module and switch module components;  
         [0017]    FIGS.  9 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module;  
         [0018]    [0018]FIG. 10 is an exploded, front perspective view of a switch module;  
         [0019]    FIGS.  11 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module switch;  
         [0020]    FIGS.  12 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module front cover;  
         [0021]    FIGS.  13 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module single-pole, single throw (SPST) contact set;  
         [0022]    FIGS.  13 C-D are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module single-pole, double throw (SPDT) contact set;  
         [0023]    FIGS.  13 E-F are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module double-pole, double throw (DPDT) contact set;  
         [0024]    FIGS.  14 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module actuator;  
         [0025]    FIGS.  15 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a switch module back cover;  
         [0026]    FIGS.  16 - 22  are perspective views of a wiring module and wiring module components;  
         [0027]    FIGS.  16 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a terminal-block wiring module;  
         [0028]    FIGS.  16 C-D are back perspective views of a terminal-block wiring module and associated terminal guards in open positions;  
         [0029]    FIGS.  16 E-F are front and back views, respectively, of a terminal-block wiring module and position-dependent wiring labels;  
         [0030]    FIGS.  16 G-H are switch and outlet wiring schematics, respectively;  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 17A-B are exploded, front perspective views of a terminal-block wiring module with stationary-mount and swivel-mount terminal guards, respectively;  
         [0032]    FIGS.  18 A-B are front and back perspective views and a back view, respectively, of a wiring panel;  
         [0033]    FIGS.  19 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a mounting bracket;  
         [0034]    FIGS.  20 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a wiring panel front cover;  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a wiring panel terminal set;  
         [0036]    FIGS.  22 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a wiring panel back cover;  
         [0037]    FIGS.  23 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a dimmer switch module;  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 24 is an exploded, front perspective view of a dimmer switch module;  
         [0039]    FIGS.  25 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a fixed-wire wiring module;  
         [0040]    FIGS.  26 A-B are exploded, front and back perspective views, respectively, of a fixed-wire wiring module;  
         [0041]    FIGS.  27 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of an electrical box cover;  
         [0042]    FIGS.  28 A-B are front perspective views of a covered and uncovered electrical box, respectively;  
         [0043]    [0043]FIG. 29 is a front perspective view of a 2-gang electrical box with overlapping covers;  
         [0044]    FIGS.  30 A-B are back perspective and back perspective exploded views, respectively, of a wiring module having a terminal shield; and  
         [0045]    FIGS.  31 A-B are front and back perspective views, respectively, of a terminal shield. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0046]    System Overview  
         [0047]    FIGS.  1 - 2  illustrate a safety module electrical distribution system  100  having a functional module  110  and a wiring module  1600 . The electrical distribution system  100  is configured to mount within a standard electrical box (not shown), such as is typically installed within a building wall. In particular, the wiring module  1600  is configured to be easily installed within an electrical box, and a functional module  110  is configured to be removably plugged into the wiring module  1600 , as described below. FIGS.  1 A-B show an outlet module  300  in an installed and a removed position, respectively. FIGS.  2 A-B show a switch module  900  in an installed and a removed position, respectively. A face plate (not shown) may be installed over a functional module  110  so as to provide an aesthetic trim.  
         [0048]    As shown in FIGS.  1 - 2 , each functional module  110  provides a user-accessible electrical distribution function. As shown in FIGS.  1 A-B, the functional module  110  may be an outlet module  300 , which functions to supply a user with electrical power through a conventional AC plug inserted into one of the module sockets. The outlet module  300  is configured for installation in a ground-up position in a wiring module  1600  oriented for outlet installation. Alternatively, an outlet module and wiring module can be configured for outlet installation in a ground-down position.  
         [0049]    As shown in FIGS.  2 A-B, the functional module  110  may be a switch module  900 , which allows a user to control electrical power to an outlet, a light or any of various electrical devices (not shown) by actuating the module switch. The switch is slideable between first and second positions in contrast to a conventional toggle switch, such as used for turning an interior light on and off. The switch module  900  is configured for installation in a wiring module  1600  oriented for switch installation. Reversible wiring module  1600  orientation within an electrical box to indicate the module to be installed and its proper orientation is described in detail with respect to FIGS.  16 A-H, below  
         [0050]    Other outlet and switch related functional modules  110  may include GFCI outlets, covered safety outlets and dimmer switches (FIGS.  23 - 24 ) to name just a few. Further, the electrical distribution system  100  may be wall-mounted, ceiling-mounted or floor-mounted. In additional, the electrical distribution system  100  can be adapted for uses other than building electrical distribution, such as airplane, automobile or boat electrical distribution applications, to name a few. A modular electrical outlet and switch system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,341,981 entitled “Safety Electrical Outlet and Switch System;” a covered safety outlet module and corresponding plug are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/434,002 entitled “Safety Plug and Covered Outlet Module;” and a GFCI outlet module is described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/452,636 entitled “Modular GFCI System,” all issued to or submitted by the inventor hereof and each incorporated by reference herein.  
         [0051]    Outlet Module  
         [0052]    FIGS.  3 A-B illustrate an outlet module  300  having a body  310 , a front side  301  and a back side  302 . The body  310  accepts attachment screws  305  on diagonally opposite corners that are utilized to secure the outlet module  300  to a wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  1 A-B). The outlet module front side  301  provides upper and lower sockets  320  each configured to accept a conventional, three-wire (grounded) electrical plug. The outlet module back side  302  provides shielded plugs  330  and a ground bar  834  that physically and electrically connect the outlet module  300  to a wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  1 A-B). The shielded plugs  330  transfer electrical power to the sockets  320 , and the ground bar  834  provides a ground path for the sockets  320 . The ground bar  834  also functions as a key to assist in orienting the outlet module  300  relative to the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  1 A-B).  
         [0053]    [0053]FIG. 4A illustrates an outlet module  300  having a front cover  500 , a rear cover  600 , a power contact set  700  and a ground contact set  800 . The front cover  500  and back cover  600  form the outlet module body  310  (FIGS.  3 A-B). The covers  500 ,  600  advantageously snap together with a latch and catch assembly, described with respect to FIGS.  5 - 6 , below. This reduces manufacturing assembly steps and reduces or eliminates the need for separate fasteners, such as rivets or screws and/or sonic welding. The contact set  700 ,  800  is retained within the covers  500 ,  600  and provides conductive paths from the wiring panel  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B) to the outlet sockets  320  (FIG. 3A). In particular, a power contact set  700  transfers power from the shielded plugs  330  (FIG. 3B) to the outlet sockets  320  (FIG. 3A). A ground contact set  800  provides a ground path between a ground bar  834  (FIG. 3B) and the outlet sockets  320  (FIG. 3A). The ground contact set components  810 ,  830 ,  850  are assembled as described with respect to FIGS.  8 A-B, below. In one embodiment, the covers  500 ,  600  are constructed of nylon. FIG. 4B illustrates an alternative embodiment of an outlet module  400 , such as for 20A applications  
         [0054]    FIGS.  5 A-B illustrate the outlet module front cover  500  having an outside face  501 , an inside face  502 , outlet apertures  510 , attachment ears  520 , side latches  530  and contact housing structure  540 ,  550 . As shown in FIG. 5A on the outside face  501 , the outlet apertures  510  form the entry to the outlet module sockets  320  (FIG. 3A) and include a hot slot, neutral slot and ground hole for each of a top socket and bottom socket. The attachment ears  520  are advantageously integral to the front cover  500 , eliminating the need for a separate mechanism for attaching the outlet module  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B) to the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The attachment ears  520  are located at an upper right corner and a diagonally opposite lower left corner (not visible), and each has a fastening aperture that accepts, for example, an attachment screw  305  (FIGS.  3 A-B). The side latches  530  form the front cover portion of the latch and catch assembly, functionally described with respect to FIG. 4, above.  
         [0055]    As shown in FIG. 5B on the inside face  502 , a power contact structure  540  accepts the power contact set  700  (FIGS.  7 A-B) so that the power contact clips  701  (FIGS.  7 A-B) align with the hot and neutral slots of the outlet apertures  510 . A ground contact structure  550  accepts the ground contact set  800  (FIGS.  8 A-B) so that the ground contact clips  832 ,  852  (FIGS.  8 A-B) align with the ground holes of the outlet apertures  510 .  
         [0056]    FIGS.  6 A-B illustrate the outlet module back cover  600  having an outside face  601 , an inside face  602 , plug shields  610 , a ground bar aperture  620 , side catches  630  and contact support structure  640 ,  650 . As shown in FIG. 6B on the outside face  601 , the plug shields  610  advantageously provide the shield portion of the shielded plugs  330  (FIG. 3B). Specifically, the plug shields  610  completely surround all sides of the power contact set prongs  702  (FIGS.  7 A-B). In this manner, the prongs  702  (FIGS.  7 A-B) are not exposed when the outlet module plugs  330  (FIG. 3B) are engaged with the wiring module sockets  810  (FIG. 18A), even when the outlet module  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B) is partially separated from the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The ground bar aperture  620  allows the ground bar  834  (FIGS.  8 A-B) to protrude through the back cover  600 , providing a ground contact with the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The side catches  630  provide apertures that accept and engage the side latches  530  (FIGS.  5 A-B) so as to releaseably secure together the front cover  500  (FIGS.  5 A-B) and the back cover  600 .  
         [0057]    As shown in FIG. 6A on the inside face  602 , a power contact support structure  640  consists of slots that allow the prongs  702  (FIGS.  7 A-B) to protrude through the back cover  600  within the plug shields  610 , providing a power connection with the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). A ground contact support structure  650  supports the ground contact set  800  (FIGS.  8 A-B).  
         [0058]    FIGS.  7 A-B illustrate the power contact set  700  having an upper hot contact  710 , a lower hot contact  720 , an upper neutral contact  730  and a lower neutral contact  740 . Each contact  710 - 740  has a prong clip  701  interconnected with a prong  702 . The prong clips  701  align with the front cover hot and neutral slots  510  (FIG. 5A) to form the outlet module sockets  320  (FIG. 3A). The prongs  702  insert through the power contact support structure  640  into the plug shields  610  to form the outlet module shielded plugs  330  (FIG. 3B). Advantageously, the power contact set  700  is configured so that the contacts may be manufactured by a stamp and fold process. In one embodiment, the contacts are brass.  
         [0059]    FIGS.  8 A-B illustrate a ground contact set  800  having a ground buss  810 , an upper ground contact  830  and a lower ground contact  850 . The ground clips  832 ,  852  align with the front cover ground holes  510  (FIG. 5A) to form the ground portion of the outlet module sockets  320  (FIG. 3A). The ground bar  834  protrudes through the back cover  600  (FIGS.  6 A-B) to provide a ground path connection with the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The unassembled ground contact set  800  is illustrated in FIG. 4, above. Ground contact set  800  assembly is described below.  
         [0060]    As shown in FIGS.  8 A-B, the ground buss  810  has a upper rivet  812 , a lower rivet  814 , a upper cutout  815 , a slot  816  and a lower cutout  818 . The ground buss  810  mechanically supports and electrically interconnects the upper ground contact  830  and the lower ground contact  850 . The upper ground contact  830  has an upper ground clip  832 , a ground bar  834 , leaves  836  and a tab  838 . The upper ground clip  832  and ground bar  834  extend from opposite ends of the upper ground contact  830 . The upper ground clip  832  accepts a ground pin from a standard AC electrical plug. The ground bar  834  inserts into a corresponding ground clip  1902  (FIGS.  19 A-B) in the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The tab  838  extends generally perpendicularly below and between the clip  832  and bar  834  and has an aperture corresponding to the top rivet  812 . The leaves  836  extend from the back of the clip  832 . The lower ground contact  850  has a lower ground clip  852 , leaves  854  and a tab  858 . The tab  858  extends generally perpendicularly to the clip  852  and has an aperture corresponding to the lower rivet  814 . The leaves  854  extend from the back of the clip  852 .  
         [0061]    Also shown in FIGS.  8 A-B, the ground contact set  800  is assembled by inserting the upper ground contact  830  and lower ground contact  850  into the ground buss  810 . Specifically, the ground bar  834  is inserted into the slot  816 , the leaves  836 ,  854  are inserted into the upper and lower cutouts  815 ,  818 , respectively, the upper and lower rivets  812 ,  814  are inserted through the tabs  838 ,  858 . The rivets  812 ,  814  are then splayed, fixedly attaching the upper and lower ground contacts  830 ,  850  to the ground buss  810 . Advantageously, the ground contact set  800  is configured so that the ground contact set components  810 ,  830 ,  850  may be manufactured by a stamp and fold process. In one embodiment, the upper and lower ground contacts  830 ,  850  are brass and the ground buss  810  is zinc-plated steel.  
         [0062]    Switch Module  
         [0063]    FIGS.  9 A-B illustrate a switch module  900  having a body  910 , a front side  901  and a back side  902 . Like the outlet module body  310  (FIGS.  3 A-B), the switch module body  910  accepts screws on diagonally opposite corners that are utilized to secure the switch module  900  to a wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  2 A-B). The switch module front side  901  has a slideable switch  1100  configured to actuate internal contacts so as to route electrical power, to turn on and off a light, for example. Like the outlet module  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B), the switch module back side  902  provides shielded plugs  930  that physically and electrically connect the switch module  900  to a wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  2 A-B). The shielded plugs  930  conduct electrical power under control of the switch  1100 . There may be null plugs  940  having no conductors depending on the switch module  900  configuration and associated function, as described with respect to FIGS.  13 A-F, below. The switch module  900  does not require a ground path to the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  2 A-B). A key bar  1520 , therefore, provides a non-conducting structure that substitutes for a ground bar  834  (FIG. 3B), to assist in orienting the switch module  900  relative to the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  2 A-B).  
         [0064]    [0064]FIG. 10 illustrates a switch module  900  having a switch  1100 , a front cover  1200 , a rear cover  1500 , a contact set  1300 , an actuator  1400  and a spring  1000 . The front cover  1200  and back cover  1500  form the switch module body  910  (FIGS.  9 A-B). The covers  1200 ,  1500  advantageously snap together and are secured with a latch and catch assembly, described with respect to FIGS.  12 A-B and  15 A-B, below. This reduces manufacturing assembly steps and reduces or eliminates the need for separate fasteners, such as rivets or screws and/or sonic welding. In one embodiment, the covers  1200 ,  1500  are constructed of nylon.  
         [0065]    As shown in FIG. 10, the switch  1100  snaps into and is slidably retained by the front cover  1200  and engages the actuator  1400 . The switch  1100  is movable between a first position and a second position. The contact set  1300 , actuator  1400  and spring  1000  are retained within the covers  1200 ,  1500 . The contact set  1300  routes electrical power from the wiring panel  1600  (FIGS.  1 A-B) as determined by the switch  1100  positions. In particular, the position of the switch  1100  determines the position of the actuator  1400 , which, in turn, determines whether the contact set  1300  is open or closed. If closed, the contact set  1300  provides a conductive path that transfers power between the shielded plugs  930  (FIG. 3B). The switch  1100  remains in its manually set position under tension from the spring  1000 .  
         [0066]    FIGS.  11 A-B illustrate a switch  1100  that is generally rectangular, having a front side  1101  and a back side  1102 . The front side  1101  has a finger grip  1110  for manually sliding the switch between its first position and its second position, as described above. The back side  1102  has latches  1120  and a lever  1130  that extends in a direction generally normal to the plane of the back side  1102 . The latches  1120  are configured to pass through front cover slots  1214  (FIG. 12A), which cause the latches  1120  to flex inward toward the extension  1130  as the switch  1100  is pressed into the front cover  1200  (FIGS.  12 A-B). The latches  1120  spring outward after the latches pass through the slots  1214  (FIG. 12A), seating the switch in the front cover  1200  (FIGS.  12 A-B), as described below. The lever tip  1132  inserts through the actuator slot  1410  (FIGS.  14 A-B) and contacts the spring  1000 , mechanically connecting the switch  1100  to the actuator  1400  (FIGS.  14 A-B).  
         [0067]    FIGS.  12 A-B illustrate a front cover  1200  having an outside face  1201 , an inside face  1202 , a switch cavity  1210 , attachment ears  1220 , side latches  1230  and top and bottom catches  1240 . Located on the outside face  1201 , the cavity  1210  is configured to accommodate the switch  1100  (FIGS.  11 A-B). Within the cavity  1210  is a lever slot  1212  that allows the switch lever  1130  (FIG. 11B) to pass through the front cover to the actuator  1400  (FIGS.  14 A-B). The lever slot  1212  extends along the cavity  1210  a sufficient distance to allow switch movement between first and second positions, as described above. Also within the cavity  1210  are catch slots  1214  that accommodate and capture the switch latches  1120  (FIG. 11B), as described above. The attachment ears  1220  are located at an upper right corner and a diagonally opposite lower left corner (not visible), and each has a fastening aperture that accepts, for example, an attachment screw  305  (FIGS.  3 A-B). The side latches  1230  and top and bottom catches  1240  form the front cover portion of the latch and catch assembly, functionally described with respect to FIG. 10, above.  
         [0068]    FIGS.  13 A-B illustrate a SPST contact set  1300  having a throw buss  1310  and a pole buss  1320 . The throw buss  1310  has a first prong  1312 , a flexible throw  1314  and a throw contact  1318 . The pole buss  1320  has a second prong  1322 , a fixed pole  1324  and a pole contact  1328 . The first and second prongs  1312 ,  1322  form the conductive portion of the shielded plugs  930  (FIG. 9B). The flexible throw  1314  engages the actuator  1400 , as described with respect to FIGS.  14 A-B, below, which moves the throw between an open position and a closed position (shown). In the closed position, the throw contact  1318  touches and electrically connects with the pole contact  1328 , establishing a conductive path between the first and second prongs  1312 ,  1322 . In the open position, the throw contact  1318  is separated from the pole contact  1328  so that there is no conductive path between the first and second prongs  1312 ,  1322 .  
         [0069]    FIGS.  13 C-D illustrate a SPDT contact set  1301  for a 3-way switch having a second pole buss  1330  in addition to the SPST contact set  1300  (FIGS.  13 A-B). The second pole buss  1330  has a third prong  1332  and a second pole contact  1338 . The flexible throw  1314  engages the actuator  1400 , as described with respect to FIGS.  14 A-B, below, which moves the throw between a first position (shown) and a second position. In a first position, the throw contact  1318  touches and electrically connects with the pole contact  1328 , establishing a conductive path between the first and second prongs  1312 ,  1322 . In a second position, the throw contact  1318  touches and electrically connects with the second pole contact  1338 , establishing a conductive path between the first and third prongs  1312 ,  1332 .  
         [0070]    FIGS.  13 E-F illustrate a DPDT contact set  1302  for a 4-way switch having a second throw buss  1340  and a third pole buss  1350  in addition to the SPDT contact set  1301 . The second throw buss  1340  has a second flexible throw  1344 . The second throw buss  1340  has a fourth prong  1342 , a second flexible throw  1344  and a second throw contact  1348 . The second pole buss  1330  has the third pole contact  1339 , and the third pole buss  1350  has a fourth pole contact  1359 . In a first position, the throw contact  1318  touches and electrically connects with the pole contact  1328 , establishing a conductive path between the first and second prongs  1312 ,  1322 . Also, the second throw contact  1348  touches and electrically connects with the third pole contact  1339 , establishing a conductive path between the third and fourth prongs  1332 ,  1342 . In a second position, the throw contact  1318  touches and electrically connects with the second pole contact  1338 , establishing a conductive path between the first and third prongs  1312 ,  1332 . Also, the second throw contact  1348  touches and electrically connects with the fourth pole contact  1339 , establishing a conductive path between the second and fourth prongs  1322 ,  1342 .  
         [0071]    FIGS.  14 A-B illustrate an actuator  1400  having a front face  1401 , a back face  1402  and a lever slot  1410  generally centered within and passing through the front and back faces  1401 ,  1402 . The actuator  1400  is positioned within the switch module  900  (FIG. 10) so that the front face  1401  is proximate the front cover  1200  (FIG. 10) and the contact set  1300  (FIG. 10) and the back face  1402  is proximate the spring  1000  (FIG. 10) and the back cover  1500  (FIG. 10). The lever slot  1410  accommodates the switch lever tip  1132  (FIG. 11B), as described above. The front face  1401  has a pair of upper arms  1420  and a pair of lower arms  1430  extending generally perpendicularly from the front face  1401  so as to engage the contact set  1300  (FIGS.  13 A-B). In particular, the flexible throw  1314  (FIGS.  13 A-B) is engaged between the upper arms  1420 . For a DPDT contact set  1302  (FIGS.  13 E-F), a second flexible throw  1344  (FIGS.  13 E-F) is engaged between the lower arms  1430 . The back face  1402  has a pair of posts  1440  that are slidably retained within back cover guides  1550  (FIG. 15A).  
         [0072]    FIGS.  15 A-B illustrate a rear cover  1500  having an inside face  1502 , an outside face  1501 , plug shields  1510 , a key bar  1520 , side catches  1530 , top and bottom latches  1540 , actuator guides  1550 , a spring hold  1560  and contact support structure  1570 . As shown in FIG. 15B on the outside face  1501 , the plug shields  1510  advantageously provide the shield portion of the shielded plugs  930  (FIG. 9B). Specifically, the plug shields  1510  completely surround all sides of the contact set prongs  1312 ,  1322  (FIGS.  13 A-B). In this manner, the prongs are not exposed when the switch module plugs  930  (FIG. 9B) are engaged with the wiring module sockets  1810  (FIG. 18A), even when the switch module  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) is partially separated from the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The key bar  1520  is configured to insert into the wiring module ground socket  1820  (FIG. 18A), although the key bar  1520  is nonconductive. The key bar  1520  assists proper orientation of the switch module  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) to the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The side catches  1530  provide apertures that accept and engage the side latches  1230  (FIGS.  12 A-B), and the top and bottom latches  1540  insert into and engage the top and bottom catches  1240  (FIGS.  12 A-B) so as to releaseably secure together the front cover  1200  (FIGS.  12 A-B) and the back cover  1500 .  
         [0073]    As shown in FIG. 15A on the inside face  1502 , the actuator guides  1550  slidably retain the actuator posts  1440  (FIG. 14B). The spring hold  1560  accommodates and retains the spring  1000  (FIG. 10). The contact support structure  1570  consists of slots through the back cover  1500  and structure extending generally normal to the inside face  1502  that support the contact set  1300  (FIGS.  13 A-B). The slots accept the contact set prongs  1312 ,  1322  (FIGS.  13 A-B), which protrude through the back cover  1500  within the plug shields  1510 .  
         [0074]    Terminal-Block Wiring Module  
         [0075]    FIGS.  16 A-B illustrate a terminal-block wiring module  1600  having a functional side  1601  and a wiring side  1602 . The functional side  1601  has structured sockets  1810  and an off-center ground socket  1820 . The structured sockets  1810  accept corresponding functional module shielded plugs, as described with respect to FIG. 20A, below. The wiring module  1600  is configured to mount within a conventional electrical box (not shown), secured with attachment screws  1605 . A functional module, such as an outlet module  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B) or a switch module  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) plug into the wiring module functional side  1601 , secured to the wiring module with attachment screws that thread through attachment ears and corresponding module mounts  1930 , as described with respect to FIGS.  1 - 2 , above. A power cable (not shown) routed into the electrical box attaches to a terminal block  1640  (FIG. 16F) accessible from the wiring module wiring side  1602 , as described with respect to FIGS.  16 E-H, below.  
         [0076]    As shown in FIGS.  16 A-B, a wiring module  1600  advantageously can be installed, wired and tested by journeyman electrician at the rough-in phase of building construction. The wiring module  1600  is mounted within an electrical box according to the type of functional module for which the wiring module  1600  will be wired. If the wiring module  1600  is mounted in a first orientation (FIG. 1B), the ground socket  1820  is positioned below-center. If the wiring module is mounted in a second orientation (FIGS. 2B, 16A), the ground socket  1820  is positioned above-center. The ground socket  1820  accepts an outlet module ground bar  834  (FIG. 3B) or switch module key bar  1520  (FIG. 9B), which act as keys. Correspondingly, the ground socket  1820  acts as a block that accepts a functional module key  834  (FIG. 3B),  1520  (FIG. 9B) only when the functional module is properly oriented with respect to the wiring module  1600  according to module type, such as a switch or outlet. In one embodiment, the wiring module  1600  is mounted with the ground socket  1820  above-center for a switch module  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) and mounted with the ground socket  1820  below-center for an outlet module  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B), as described in further detail with respect to FIGS.  16 E-H, below.  
         [0077]    FIGS.  16 C-D illustrate a terminal-block wiring module  1600  having terminal guards  1700  that advantageously provide covered access to the terminal set  2100  (FIG. 21). In particular, in a closed position (FIGS.  16 A-B) the terminal guards  1700  protect users from shock and insulate between closely mounted high voltage devices. In an open position (FIGS.  16 C-D), the terminal guards  1700  allow convenient access to the terminal screws  2140  so as to attach or remove power cable wires from the terminal blocks  1640 . As shown in FIG. 16C, a hinge  1702  allows a terminal guard  1700  to move from a closed position FIGS. ( 16 A-B) to an open position. A latch  1704  presses into a corresponding catch slot  2220 , which retains a terminal guard  1700  in a closed position until it is manually opened. As shown in FIG. 16D, in one embodiment a swivel mount  1709  (FIG. 17B) also allows the terminal guard  1700  to swivel from side to side in an open position, further easing access to the terminal screws  2140 .  
         [0078]    FIGS.  16 E-F illustrate orientation-dependent labels on the wiring module functional and wiring sides, respectively. As described above, the type of functional module to be mounted in the wiring module  1600  determines the mounted orientation of the wiring module  1600  within an electrical box. Color coded labels  1620 ,  1630  on the functional side (FIG. 16E) and wiring labels  1650 ,  1660  on the wiring side (FIG. 16F) advantageously indicate to the journeyman electrician the correct wiring module  1600  orientation. The color coded labels  1620 ,  1630  also advantageously indicate the correct functional module to be installed or replaced. In particular, as shown in FIG. 16E, the color coded labels include a switch label  1620  and an outlet label  1630 . The switch label  1620  has an orientation indicator  1622  and corresponding text that specify the wiring module orientation for a switch module  900  (FIGS.  2 A-B). In addition, color boxes  1624  advantageously match color indicators  2310  (FIG. 23A) on corresponding switch modules  900 . Further, as shown in FIG. 16F, the outlet label  1630  has an orientation indicator  1632  and corresponding text that specify the wiring module orientation for an outlet module  300  (FIGS.  1 A-B). Also, color boxes  1634  match an outlet color indicator. In one embodiment, the switch color boxes  1624  are yellow, red and orange matching SP, 3-way and 4-way switch color indicators, respectively. The outlet color boxes  1634  are dark and light blue for full hot and half-hot wiring, matching a blue color indicator for an outlet module. The color boxes  1624 ,  1634  are marked by the journeyman electrician at wiring module installation to visually indicate the module type for which the wiring module  1600  was wired.  
         [0079]    As shown in FIG. 16F, there are four terminal blocks  1640 , each having terminal labels “1,” “2,” “3” and “4”  1670  identifying the individual terminal blocks T 1 , T 2 , T 3  and T 4  by number. In a switch orientation (shown), switch labels  1650  are advantageously positioned in a manner visually corresponding to each of the individual terminal blocks  1640 . The switch labels  1650  identify switch wiring for each terminal block by switch type SP, 3-way and 4-way. The outlet labels  1660  are upside down in the switch orientation, visually indicating that they are inapplicable. In an outlet orientation (upside down from that shown), outlet labels  1660  are similarly positioned in a manner visually corresponding to each of the individual terminal blocks  1640 . The outlet labels  1660  identify outlet wiring. The switch labels  1650  are upside down in the outlet orientation, visually indicating that they are inapplicable.  
         [0080]    FIGS.  16 G-H illustrate switch and outlet wiring schematics, respectively, corresponding to the terminal labels  1670  (FIG. 16F), switch labels  1650  (FIG. 16F) and outlet labels  1660  (FIG. 16F) described with respect to FIG. 16F, above. Graphically depicted are groups of four terminals  1690  representing the terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F). Also depicted are individual terminal blocks  1691 , corresponding hot, neutral, traveler and switch wires  1692 , and links and gaps  1693  corresponding to removable breakaways  2116 .  
         [0081]    FIGS.  17 A-B illustrate a terminal-block wiring module  1600  having a wiring panel  1800  and a mounting bracket  1900 . The wiring panel  1800  has a front cover  2000 , a back cover  2200 , a terminal set  2100  and terminal guards  1700 . The front cover  2000  and back cover  2200  are secured together with a fastener (not shown). The mounting bracket  1900  further secures the front cover  2000  to the back cover, as described with respect to FIGS.  18 - 20 , below. The terminal set  2100  is retained within the wiring panel  1800  and provides terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F) for power cable attachment and provides conductive paths between the terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F) and structured sockets  1810  (FIG. 18A). The mounting bracket  1900  advantageously performs multiple functions including securing the wiring module  1600  to an electrical box (not shown), securing together the front and back covers  2000 ,  2200 , providing a ground bar clip  1902  (FIG. 19A) for contact with a module ground bar  834  (FIG. 3B) and providing a ground terminal  1907  (FIG. 19A) for a ground wire connection.  
         [0082]    As shown in FIGS.  17 A-B, the terminal guards  1700  each have a hinge  1702 , a latch  1704 , a mount  1706 ,  1709  and a grip  1708 . The mount  1706 ,  1709  slides into a corresponding guard slot  2210  (FIG. 22A) on each side of the back cover  2200 , which secures each terminal guard  1700  to the wiring panel  1800 . The hinge  1702  advantageously allows a terminal guard  1700  to move between a closed position (FIGS.  16 A-B) blocking inadvertent contact with the terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F) and an open position (FIGS.  16 C-D) allowing access to the terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F). The latch  1704  presses into a corresponding catch slot  2220  (FIG. 22A) on each side of the back cover  2200 , which retains each terminal guard  1700  in a closed position until it is manually opened. A grip  1708  assists in latching the terminal guards  1700 . A stationary mount  1706  (FIG. 17A) holds the terminal guards  1700  in alignment with the terminal screws  2140  (FIG. 21). Alternatively, a swivel mount  1709  (FIGS. 17B) advantageously allows the terminal guards  1700  to swivel to either side  1601 ,  1602  (FIGS.  16 A-B) of the wiring module for easier access to the terminal screws  2140  (FIG. 21).  
         [0083]    FIGS.  18 A-B illustrate a wiring panel  1800  having a front side  1801  and a back side  1802 . The front side  1801  has structured sockets  1810 , a ground socket  1820  and bracket slots  1830 . The back side  1802  has terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F) formed by a terminal set  2100  (FIG. 21) having terminal screws  2140  (FIG. 21) that are accessed through the terminal guards  1700 , as described above.  
         [0084]    FIGS.  19 A-B illustrate a mounting bracket  1900  having a bracket body  1901 , a ground clip  1902  and a ground terminal  1907 . The ground clip  1902  is attached to the bracket body  1901  with a rivet  1905 . The ground terminal  1907  provides a ground termination for a ground wire (not shown). The bracket  1900  has swages  1910 , box mounts  1920  and module mounts  1930 . The bracket  1900  is configured to be disposed around the rear cover  2200  (FIGS.  22 A-B) with the swages  1910  inserted through front cover slots  2020  (FIGS.  20 A-B) and spread against the front cover outside  2001  so as to secure together the front and rear covers  2000 ,  2200 . A fastener  1909  is inserted through the bracket and into the wiring panel front cover  2000 , so as to secure together the front and rear covers  2000 ,  2200 . The box mounts  1920  allow the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B) to be secured to an electrical box (not shown) and are configured to removably engage a box cover (FIGS.  27 - 29 ). The module mounts  1930  allow functional modules  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B),  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) to be secured to the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B). The ground clip  1902  is configured to physically and electrically connect to a module ground bar  834  (FIGS.  8 A-B).  
         [0085]    In an alternative embodiment, the mounting bracket  1900  does not have swages  1910 . Multiple fasteners  1909  are inserted through the mounting bracket  1900  and into the wiring panel front cover  2000 , so as to secure together the front and rear covers  2000 ,  2200 . After the mounting bracket  1900  is attached to the front cover  2000 , ears at the top and bottom of the mounting bracket  1900  are bent over and against the front cover outside  2001  to further secure together the front and rear covers  2000 ,  2200 . Trusses are included across or proximate to folded portions of the mounting bracket  1900  to strengthen the bracket structure. The box mount  1920  may have an alternative shape so as to accommodate a box cover  2700  (FIGS.  27 A-B).  
         [0086]    FIGS.  20 A-B illustrate a front cover  2000  having an outside face  2001  and an inside face  2002 . As shown in FIG. 20A on the outside face  2001 , raised guards  2010  and surrounding channels  2014  provide the nonconductive portions of structured sockets  1810  (FIG. 18A). Each raised guard  2010  and surrounding channel  2014  are configured to mate with a corresponding plug shield  610  (FIG. 6B). In particular, when a functional module is plugged into the wiring module  1600  (FIGS.  16 A-B), shields  610  (FIG. 6B),  1510  (FIG. 15B) insert into channels  2014 , guards  2010  insert within shields  610  (FIG. 6B),  1510  (FIG. 15B), and prongs  702  (FIGS.  7 A-B) plug into power clips  2112  (FIG. 21). This interlocking action of the shield plugs  330  (FIG. 3B),  930  (FIG. 9B) and the structured sockets  1810  (FIG. 18A) advantageously provides a fully enclosed shield as an electrical connection is made between a functional module and a wiring module, in addition to tactile feedback and a solid mechanical and electrical connection. Further, the guards  2010  and channels  2014  reduce the chance of an inadvertent contact between a tool, such as a screwdriver tip, and a hot contact within a socket  1810  (FIG. 18A). For example, a tool dragged across the wiring panel front side  1801  (FIG. 18A) during service will tend to lodge in the channel  2014  or against the raised guard  2010  or both. In a particular embodiment, the shields  610  (FIG. 6B),  1510  (FIG. 15B) and the corresponding channels  2014  and raised guards  2010  are generally rectangular in shape with rounded corners.  
         [0087]    As shown in FIG. 20B, the inside face  2002  has swage slots  2020 , a ground aperture  2030  and terminal support structure  2050 ,  2060 . The swage slots  2020  accommodate the mounting bracket swages  1910  (FIG. 19A), which assist to secure together the front and back covers  2000 ,  2200 . The ground aperture  2030  accommodates a ground bar  834  (FIG. 3B) or key bar  1520  (FIG. 9B) as part of a ground socket  1820  (FIG. 18A). The support structure  2050 ,  2060  houses the terminal set  2100  (FIGS. 21).  
         [0088]    [0088]FIG. 21 illustrates a terminal set  2100  having contact busses  2110 , terminal clamps  2130  and terminal screws  2140 . The contact busses  2110  each have power clips  2112  that provide the conductor portion of the structured sockets  1810  (FIG. 18A). The power clips  2112  are configured to physically and electrically connect with module prongs  702  (FIGS.  7 A-B),  1312 ,  1322  (FIGS.  13 A-B). The terminal clamps  2130  and terminal screws  2140  terminate power cables (not shown) to the contact busses  2110 . The terminal clamps  2130  are configured to secure one wire per channel  2132 . Advantageously, this provides a four-wire capacity for each of four terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F). In one embodiment, each terminal block  1640  (FIG. 16F) is configured for four 14 gauge copper wires or two 12 gauge copper wires. Breakaways  2116  are removable to selectively isolate individual terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F).  
         [0089]    FIGS.  22 A-B illustrate a back cover  2200  having an inside face  2202  and an outside face  2201 . The inside face  2202  has mount slots  2210  and catch slots  2220  that retain the terminal guards  1700  (FIG. 17), as described above. The inside face  2202  also has terminal slots  2230  that retain the terminal set. The outside face  2201  is shaped to accommodate the mounting bracket  1900  (FIGS.  19 A-B) and accommodate power cable attachment to the terminal blocks  1640  (FIG. 16F).  
         [0090]    Dimmer Switch Module  
         [0091]    FIGS.  23 A-B illustrate a dimmer switch module  2300  having a switch  2410  and a dimmer lever  2460  on a front side  2301  and shielded plugs  2330  and a key bar  2350  on a back side  2302 . The top of the switch module  2300  also has a color label  2310 . The color label  2310  corresponds in color to one of the wiring module color labels  1624 . In this manner, the switch module color label  2310  advantageously provides a visual indication of proper module orientation and avoids installation into a wiring module  1600  (FIG. 16E-F) wired for a different module type. Similar color labels of differing colors may be applied in a similar fashion to outlet modules  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B) and other switch modules  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) for the same purpose. FIG. 24 illustrates the dimmer switch module  2300  including a switch  2410 , a front cover  2420 , a bracket  2430 , a circuit board  2440 , a back cover  2450  and a dimmer lever  2460 .  
         [0092]    Fixed-Wire Wiring Module  
         [0093]    FIGS.  25 A-B illustrate a fixed-wire wiring module  2500  having a functional side  2501  and a wiring side  2502 . The wiring module  2500  is configured to mount within a conventional electrical box (not shown), secured with attachment screws (not shown) threaded through box mounts  2652 . A functional module, such as an outlet module  300  (FIGS.  3 A-B) or a switch module  900  (FIGS.  9 A-B) plug into the wiring module functional side  2501 , secured to the wiring module  2500  with attachment screws (not shown) that thread through attachment ears (not shown) and corresponding module mounts  2654 , as described with respect to FIGS.  1 - 2 , above. A power cable (not shown) routed to the electrical box attaches to pushwire connectors  2570  at the end of fixed wires  2550  extending from the wiring module wiring side  2502 .  
         [0094]    FIGS.  26 A-B illustrate a fixed-wire wiring module  2500  having a front cover  2610 , a back cover  2620 , a terminal set  2630 , a mounting bracket  2650 , a ground bar clip  2660  and fasteners  2670 . The front cover  2610  and back cover  2620  are secured together with the fasteners  2670  and enclose the terminal set  2632 . Advantageously, the mounting bracket  2650  is partially enclosed by, and retained between, the front cover  2610  and back cover  2620  so as to secure the mounting bracket  2650  to, and mechanically and electrically integrate the mounting bracket with, the wiring module  2500 .  
         [0095]    As shown in FIGS.  26 A-B the front cover  2610  has structured sockets  2612 , a ground aperture  2614 , support structure  2616  and fastener posts  2618 . The structured sockets  2612  interlock with functional module shielded plugs and the ground aperture  2614  accommodates a ground bar or key bar as part of a ground socket in a manner as described with respect to FIGS.  20 A-B, above. The support structure  2616  houses the terminal set  2630 . The fastener posts  2618  align with fastener apertures  2624  and accept the fasteners  2670  securing the front cover  2610  to the back cover  2620 .  
         [0096]    Also shown in FIGS.  26 A-B, the terminal set  2630  has power clips  2632 , fixed wire terminals  2634  and breakaways  2638 . The power clips  2632  provide the conductor portion of the structured sockets  2612  and are configured to physically and electrically connect with module prongs in a manner as described with respect to FIG. 21, above. The fixed wire terminals  2634  electrically and mechanically connect a striped end of the fixed wires  2550  (FIGS.  25 A-B) to the terminal set  2630 . The breakaways  2638  are removable to selectively isolate individual power clips  2632 .  
         [0097]    Further shown in FIGS.  26 A-B, the mounting bracket  2650  is adapted to a channel extending lengthwise along the front cover  2610  and corresponding support structure extending lengthwise along the back cover  2620 . The mounting bracket  2650  has box mounts  2652 , module mounts  2654 , a ground clip aperture  2656  and a ground terminal  2658 . The box mounts  2652  accept fasteners (not shown) to secure the bracket to an electrical box (not shown). The module mounts  2654  accept fasteners (not shown) to secure a functional module (not shown) to the wiring module  2500 . The ground clip aperture  2656  is adapted to the ground clip  2660 , which connects a functional module ground bar electrically and mechanically to the bracket  2650 . The bracket has an integrated rivet for securing the ground clip  2660  within the aperture  2656 . The ground terminal  2658  electrically and mechanically connects a striped end of a ground one of the fixed wires  2550  (FIGS.  25 A-B) to the bracket  2650 .  
         [0098]    Additionally shown in FIGS.  26 A-B, the back cover  2620  has wire apertures  2622 , fastener apertures  2624  and a breakaway aperture  2626 . The wire apertures  2622  are adapted to the fixed wires  2550  (FIGS.  25 A-B) so as to provide a seal around and strain relief for the fixed wires and access to the terminal set  2630  and ground terminal  2658 . The fastener apertures  2624  accept that portion of the fasteners  2670  that thread into or are otherwise secured to the fastener posts  2618 . The breakaway aperture  2626  allows user access to the breakaways  2638  within an assembled wiring module  2500 .  
         [0099]    Electrical Box Cover  
         [0100]    FIGS.  27 A-B illustrate an electrical box cover  2700  having a generally planar cover plate  2710 , clamps  2720 , catches  2730 , trusses  2740  and markers  2750 . The cover plate  2710  has a front side  2701  and a back side  2702 . The clamps  2720  are located, one each, generally centered on the top and bottom of the cover plate  2710  and extend generally perpendicularly from the back side  2702 . The catches  2730  are apertures, one for each catch  2730 , that are generally centered on the catches  2720  and extending along the juncture between the catches  2730  and the cover plate  2710 . The trusses  2740  are protrusions on the cover plate  2740  that extend substantially along the length of the front side  2701 , providing structural support to resist bending of the cover plate  2710 . The markers  2750  are generally round protrusions on the front side  2701  of the cover plate  2740  located, one each, proximate the top and bottom of the cover plate  2740 .  
         [0101]    FIGS.  28 A-B illustrate an electrical box  2800  that is covered and uncovered, respectively, by a box cover  2700 , as described with respect to FIGS.  27 A-B, above. The box cover  2700  removably mounts over the electrical box open face  2801  so as to prevent material such as plaster and paint from fouling the wiring module  1600  during the makeup phase of construction. Advantageously, the box cover  2700  mounts generally flush with the electrical box open face  2801  and, hence, generally flush with installed drywall so as not to interfere with drywall construction during the makeup phase. Drywall, once loosely positioned, can be pressed against the box cover  2700 . In doing so, the markers  2750  dimple the drywall, advantageously marking the location of the electrical box  2800  so that drywall cutouts can be accurately made to accommodate the electrical box  2800 .  
         [0102]    As shown in FIGS.  28 A-B, the box cover  2700  is installed on the box mounts  1920  of a wiring module  1600  mounted within the electrical box  2800 . In particular, the clamps  2720  flex somewhat to slide over the box mounts  1920  until the box mounts  1920  insert into corresponding catches  2730 . The box cover  2700  can be easily removed by flexing the clamps  2720  so that a box mount  1920  clears a corresponding catch  2730 .  
         [0103]    [0103]FIG. 29 illustrate a 2-gang electrical box  2900  with overlapping box covers  2700 . The box covers  2700  are configured so that a first portion  2791  of one cover overlaps a second portion  2792  of another cover so as to prevent drywall related material from entering between the covers  2700  and fouling the electrical box  2900  interior.  
         [0104]    Terminal Shield  
         [0105]    FIGS.  30 A-B illustrate a terminal-block wiring module  1600  having a terminal shield  3100  installed on a wiring side  1602  using fasteners  1909 . The terminal shield  3100  advantageously prevents bare copper ground wires (not shown), which typically are connected between the ground terminal  1907  (FIG. 17A) and an electrical box (not shown), from inadvertently protruding through the back cover  2200  (FIG. 17A) and short circuiting the terminal set  2100  (FIG. 17A).  
         [0106]    FIGS.  31 A-B illustrate a terminal shield  3100  having a front side  3101 , a back side  3102  and a spine  3105 . Mounting ears  3110  extend from both ends of the spine  3105 , and shield wings  3120  extend from both sides of the spine  3105 . Breakaway guards  3130  extend from a central portion of each shield wing  3120 . A V-shaped hinge  3135  extending across a portion of each breakaway guard  3130  allows the breakaway guards  3130  to flex somewhat to gain access for removal of one or both of the breakaways  2116  (FIG. 16F), as described with respect to FIGS.  16 G-H, above. Mounting apertures  3140  are defined in the mounting ears  3110 , wire apertures  3150  are defined in the shield wings  3120 , and a bracket aperture  3160  is defined in a central portion of the spine  3105 .  
         [0107]    As shown in FIGS.  31 A-B, the terminal shield  3100  is installed with the back side  3102  proximate the wiring module  1600  (FIG. 30A) and the front side  3101  distal the wiring module  1600  (FIG. 30A). In particular, the spine  3105  fits against the bracket  1900  and the bracket aperture  3160  accommodates protrusions due to the ground clip  1902  (FIG. 17A) or its associated fastener. The mounting apertures  3140  accept the fasteners  1909  (FIG. 30A), which also secure together the wiring module  1600  (FIG. 30A). The shield wings  3120  cover exposed portions of the terminal set  2100  (FIG. 17A), and the wire apertures  3150  accommodate wire ends that are connected to the terminal set  2100  (FIG. 17A).  
         [0108]    Other Functional Modules  
         [0109]    Although described above with respect to outlet and switch modules, the electrical distribution system may operate in conjunction with a variety of functional modules providing various electrical functions, such as security modules, data transfer modules, computing modules, home entertainment modules and intelligent home product modules to name a few. For example, a security module may incorporate a video camera or motion sensor. A data transfer module may incorporate data storage devices, wireless transceivers or AC power line transceivers. A computing module may incorporate a microprocessor, a data entry or display device, for example. A home entertainment module may work in conjunction with speakers, LCD panels or plasma TVs. A home product module, for instance, may incorporate a microcontroller and a wireless or an AC power line transceiver for appliance control.  
         [0110]    An electrical distribution terminal guard has been disclosed in detail in connection with various embodiments. These embodiments are disclosed by way of examples only and are not to limit the scope of the claims that follow. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate many variations and modifications.