Abstract:
A protective shutter assembly is disposed within the at least one socket, the shutter assembly including a first and second shutter members positioned proximate the cover assembly. Each shutter member is at least partially aligned with a separate cover opening in the cover assembly and is movable between a closed position and an open position in response to engaging at least one plug blade by an electric motor.

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/179,112 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Electrical Cord With Tamper Resistant Mechanism” which was filed on Feb. 12, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/039,943 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Electrical Cord With Tamper Resistant Mechanism” which was filed on Sep. 27, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/912,348 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Electrical Cord With Tamper Resistant Mechanism” which was filed on Jun. 7, 2013, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/482,101 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Electrical Cord With Tamper Resistent Mechanism” which was filed on May 29, 2012, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/274,934 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Electrical Cord with Tamper Resistent Mechanism”, which was filed on Oct. 17, 2011, which application was a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/050,777 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Tamper Resistant Electrical Device”, which was filed on Mar. 17, 2011, which application claimed the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/315,368 to Baldwin et al. entitled “Tamper Resistant Receptacles”, which was filed on Mar. 18, 2010, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application 61/389,612 to Cleghorn et al. entitled “Tamper Resistant Shutters for an Electrical Device” which was filed on Oct. 4, 2010, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Technical Field 
         [0003]    Aspects of the present disclosure relate to electrical receptacles and electrical cords that selectively prevent and permit objects to engage electrical contacts within the receptacle and electrical cord to reduce the risk of electrocution. 
         [0004]    2. Background Art 
         [0005]    Electrical devices, and specifically electrical receptacles capable of receiving electrical plugs to provide electricity to the electrical plug are well known. In the United States, electrical receptacles generally include two or three prongs, with each set arranged to receive an electrical plug. Electrical receptacles, with the exception of Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCI) are generally always active, meaning they provide electricity to the electrical receptacle contacts at all times. GFCI devices function similarly, except they can restrict electrical current in the event that a short or current imbalance is detected in the circuit. After a fault is detected, the GFCI cuts off power to the electrical receptacle contacts until a user resets the GFCI. 
         [0006]    Nevertheless, children in particular are susceptible to being shocked in the event that the child inserts a conductive object into an electrical receptacle opening. Conductive objects may include knives, paper clips, screw drivers, or the like that a child inserts into the opening and receives an electrical shock, electrocution, or a burn. One attempt to alleviate the potential for electrocution has been to incorporate doors in the electrical device that must be overcome before the object can reach the electrical contacts. Each of these attempts includes complex mechanisms which are unnecessary or difficult to manufacture. Other attempts may be less complex, but are very cumbersome to operate or are inefficient. Finally, some tamper resistant electrical devices wear out quickly and no longer protect the consumer, and particularly children, from electrical shock hazards. 
         [0007]    Electrical cords have long been a danger when plugged into an active outlet. Once the electrical cord is connected to an active receptacle, a child may be injured by inserting a conductive object into the opposite end of the electrical cord that is free. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0008]    This disclosure includes one or more electrical devices and electrical cords with tamper resistant members which prevent access to the electrical terminals by unauthorized articles. 
         [0009]    A particular aspect broadly includes an electrical cord including a plug on a first end and at least one socket on a second end opposite the first end, a protective shutter assembly disposed within the at least one socket, the shutter assembly including a first shutter member and a second shutter member each positioned proximate the cover assembly and each of the first and second shutter members is at least partially aligned with separate cover openings in the cover assembly and being configured to move from a closed position to an open position in response to engaging a plug blade, a third shutter member positioned behind the first shutter member, a fourth shutter member positioned behind the second shutter member, and wherein the first, second, third, and fourth shutter members are each separate components. 
         [0010]    In particular implementations, the first shutter member may be pivotally connected to the fourth shutter member and the second shutter member may be pivotally connected to the third shutter member. The first and second shutter members may be pivotally moved from the closed position to the open position in response to engagement by the plug blade. The third and fourth shutter members may be linearly moved from the closed position to the open position in response to engagement by the plug blade. The first and second shutter members may pivot in the same direction from the closed position to the open position. The first and second shutter members may pivot in opposite directions from the closed position to the open position. 
         [0011]    In additional particular implementations, the first shutter member may pivot from the closed position to the open position in response to engaging the plug blade and the fourth shutter member may be linearly moved from the closed position to the open position by the pivotal movement of the first shutter member. The second shutter member may pivot from the closed position to the open position in response to engaging the plug blade and the third shutter member may be linearly moved from the closed position to the open position by the pivotal movement of the second shutter member. The third and fourth shutter members may be biased into the closed position with a spring. 
         [0012]    The first, second, third, and fourth shutter members may each further include an engagement portion with a radius. The first shutter member engagement portion may contact the fourth shutter member engagement portion during operation and the second shutter member engagement portion may contact the third shutter member engagement portion during operation. The shutter assembly may also include a first stop limiting linear movement of the third shutter member in a closing direction and a second stop limiting linear movement of the fourth shutter member in a closing direction. The first and second shutter members may pivot in the direction of the plug blade insertion. 
         [0013]    The electrical cord may be an extension cord. The at least one socket may be a plurality of non-movable sockets forming a power strip. The power strip may be surge protected. The at least one socket is a plurality of flexible sockets having independent mobility from one another. The at least one socket is selected from the group consisting of three sockets, four sockets, five sockets, six sockets, seven sockets, and eight sockets. 
         [0014]    A particular aspect may broadly include an electrical cord including a plug on a first end and a plurality of sockets with a cover having a plurality of openings on a second end opposite the first end, a protective shutter assembly disposed within each of the plurality of sockets, each of the shutter assemblies including a first shutter member and second shutter member positioned proximate the cover and each of the first and second shutter members is at least partially aligned with separate cover openings in the cover and configured to move from a closed position to an open position in response to engaging at least one plug blade, a third shutter member positioned behind the first shutter member, a fourth shutter member positioned behind the second shutter member, and wherein the first and second shutter members pivot from the closed position to the open position and the third and fourth shutter members slide from the closed position to the closed position to the open position. 
         [0015]    In particular implementations, the fourth shutter member is slid from the closed position to the open position by the first shutter member pivoting from the closed position to the open position and the third shutter member is slid from the closed position to the open position by the second shutter member pivoting from the closed position to the open position. The first and second shutter members pivot in opposite directions and the third and fourth shutter members slide in opposite directions. The electrical cord may be a power strip and the pluralities of sockets are rigidly mounted on the second end. The electrical cord is a power strip and the plurality of sockets are flexibly mounted on the second end. 
         [0016]    A particular aspect may broadly comprise an electrical cord including a plug on a first end and at least one socket on a second end opposite the first end, a protective shutter assembly disposed within the at least one socket and adjacent electrical contacts within the at least one socket, and wherein the protective shutter assembly permits an electrical plug to contact the electrical contacts and prevents a non-electrical plug from contacting the electrical contacts. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0017]    Features of particular embodiments and implementations of tamper resistant electrical devices will hereinafter be described in conjunction with the appended drawings, where like designations denote like elements, and: 
           [0018]      FIG. 1  is an exploded perspective view of an electrical receptacle with a tamper resistant shutter system; 
           [0019]      FIG. 2A  is an exploded perspective view of an electrical receptacle face with a tamper resistant shutter system; 
           [0020]      FIG. 2B  is a rear perspective view of an electrical receptacle face with a tamper resistant shutter system; 
           [0021]      FIG. 3  is a front elevation view of an electrical receptacle face with a tamper resistant shutter system in the closed position; 
           [0022]      FIG. 4  is a front elevation view of an electrical receptacle face with a tamper resistant shutter system in the open position; 
           [0023]      FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a tamper resistant shutter system in an assembled state; 
           [0024]      FIG. 6  is an exploded perspective view of a tamper resistant shutter system; 
           [0025]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a tamper resistant shutter system housing; 
           [0026]      FIG. 8  is a front elevation view of a tamper resistant shutter system housing with a fourth shutter member in position; 
           [0027]      FIG. 9  is a front elevation view of a tamper resistant shutter system housing with a second shutter member in position; 
           [0028]      FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a tamper resistant shutter system housing with a first shutter member and a fourth shutter member in position; 
           [0029]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a tamper resistant shutter system housing with a first shutter member and a fourth shutter member in position and both shutter members in the open position; 
           [0030]      FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system in an assembled state; 
           [0031]      FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member moved to an open position; 
           [0032]      FIG. 14  is a front elevation view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system in an assembled state; 
           [0033]      FIG. 15  is a front elevation view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member moved to an open position; 
           [0034]      FIG. 16  is a front elevation view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system with all four shutter members moved to an open position; 
           [0035]      FIG. 17  is a perspective view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member in the closed position; 
           [0036]      FIG. 18  is a perspective view of a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member in the open position; 
           [0037]      FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a third aspect tamper resistant shutter system in an assembled state; 
           [0038]      FIG. 20  is a perspective view of a third aspect tamper resistant shutter system in an open position; 
           [0039]      FIG. 21  is a front perspective view of a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in an open position; 
           [0040]      FIG. 22  is a rear perspective view of a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first shutter member in the open position and a second shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0041]      FIG. 23  is a rear elevation view of a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first shutter member and a second shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0042]      FIG. 24  is a rear elevation view of a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first shutter member and a second shutter member in an open position; 
           [0043]      FIG. 25  is a rear perspective view of a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first shutter member and a second shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0044]      FIG. 26  is a rear perspective view of a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first and a second shutter member in an open position; 
           [0045]      FIG. 27  is a front perspective view of a fifth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in a closed position; 
           [0046]      FIG. 28  is a front perspective view of a fifth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in an open position; 
           [0047]      FIG. 29  is a front perspective view of a fifth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first shutter member and a third shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0048]      FIG. 30  is a front perspective view of a fifth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a first shutter member and a third shutter member in an open position; 
           [0049]      FIG. 31  is a front perspective view of a sixth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0050]      FIG. 32  is a front perspective view of a sixth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a shutter member slid rearward and rotated to an open position; 
           [0051]      FIG. 33  is a right elevation view of a sixth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0052]      FIG. 34  is a perspective view of a sixth aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a shutter member tilted to one side and preventing the shutter member from moving into an open position; 
           [0053]      FIG. 35  is a perspective view of a seventh aspect tamper resistant shutter system in a closed position; 
           [0054]      FIG. 36  is a perspective view of a seventh aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member in an open position; 
           [0055]      FIG. 37  is a perspective view of a seventh aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member in a closed position; 
           [0056]      FIG. 38  is a perspective view of a seventh aspect tamper resistant shutter system with a second shutter member and a third shutter member in an open position; 
           [0057]      FIG. 39  is a partial front view of a  20  amp tamper resistant electrical face with an eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in the closed position; 
           [0058]      FIG. 40  is an exploded view of the eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system; 
           [0059]      FIG. 41  is an assembled front perspective view of the eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in the closed position; 
           [0060]      FIG. 42  is a front view of the eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in the closed position; 
           [0061]      FIG. 43  is a front view of the eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system in the open position; 
           [0062]      FIG. 44  is a perspective view of components of the eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system and the locking mechanism of a perpendicular prong shutter in the closed position; 
           [0063]      FIG. 45  is a perspective view of components of the eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system and the locking mechanism of a perpendicular prong shutter in the open position; 
           [0064]      FIG. 46  is a front view of an electrical device with Chinese electrical socket opening; 
           [0065]      FIG. 47  is a perspective view of an electrical extension cord with a tamper resistant shutter system therein; 
           [0066]      FIG. 48  is a partially exploded perspective view of the electrical extension cord in  FIG. 47 ; 
           [0067]      FIG. 49  is a perspective view of a multiple outlet squid style electrical extension cord having a tamper resistant shutter system therein; 
           [0068]      FIG. 50  is a partially exploded perspective view of a multiple outlet squid style electrical extension cord having a tamper resistant shutter system therein; 
           [0069]      FIG. 51  is a perspective view of a power strip having a plurality of tamper resistant shutter systems therein; and, 
           [0070]      FIG. 52  is an exploded view of a power strip having a plurality of tamper resistant shutter systems therein. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
       [0071]    Accordingly, there are a variety of tamper resistant electrical devices and electrical cords. 
         [0072]      FIGS. 1 through 4  illustrate a tamper resistant electrical device  40  that includes a device face  42 , with a pair of tamper resistant shutter systems  44  and a conductive structural portion  46 . The conductive structural portion  46  houses a yoke  48 , electrical contacts  50  which receive the electrical plug prongs, and mounting hardware for connecting the electrical device to wiring. 
         [0073]    Device face  42  includes a front surface  52  and a rear surface  54 . A plurality of openings  56  extend through front surface  52  and rear surface  54  to permit electrical plug prongs to engage electrical contacts  50 . Electrical contacts  50  are aligned with openings  56  to ensure that the electrical plug prongs can engage the electrical contacts during normal operation, but electrical contacts  50  are generally protected from inadvertent engagement. In general, the remainder of the conductive structural portion  46  may be similar to a standard electrical device or may incorporate an adjustability system as shown in  FIG. 1 , and disclosed in further detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/890,511 to Baldwin et al., the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
         [0074]    Referring to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , tamper resistant shutter system  44  is shown in the closed position and open position, respectively. As seen in  FIG. 3 , tamper resistant shutter system  44  is preventing a child or other user from inserted a foreign object into the receptacle opening.  FIG. 4 , on the other hand, illustrates after an electrical plug has penetrated tamper resistant shutter system  44  and permitted the prongs to engage the electrical contacts therein. In one aspect, the tamper resistant shutter system may only block the two flat, parallel, non-coplanar blades of a three prong electrical plug. Thus, the grounding opening may not be protected because electrical current will not flow from the grounding opening and harm a user. In another aspect, the grounding opening may also include a tamper resistant shutter system that works in conjunction with or separate from a tamper resistant shutter system operating with the flat plug blades. 
         [0075]      FIGS. 5 through 11  illustrate first aspect tamper resistant shutter system  44  in greater detail. Shutter system  44  may include a housing  58  having a cavity  60  in the front, which is arranged to receive the various tamper resistant components in one aspect detailed below. 
         [0076]      FIG. 5  illustrates tamper resistant shutter system  44  in the assembled state and in the closed position. Housing  58  is preferably shaped and sized to fit directly behind device face  42  adjacent rear surface  54 . A pair of mounting tabs  62  may be located on the outer sides of shutter system housing  58  to provide a compression fit adjacent device face rear surface  54 . Housing  58  may also include a plurality of grooves  64 , with two grooves on each of the two longer housing walls in one aspect. 
         [0077]    In this arrangement, a first shutter member  66  is rotatably mounted within two grooves  64  on a left side of the housing, while a second shutter member  68  is rotatably mounted within two grooves  64  on a right side of the housing. Both first shutter member  66  and second shutter member  68  include a pivot shoulder  70  extending from each side of each member. The pivot shoulders are shaped and sized complimentary to grooves  64  and rest within the grooves to provide rotational movement of the first and second shutter members with minimal friction. 
         [0078]    Tamper resistant shutter system  44  also includes a third shutter member  72  behind first shutter member  66 , while a fourth shutter member  74  is located behind second shutter member  68 . Both third shutter member  72  and fourth shutter member  74  include a protrusion  76  arranged to receive a spring  78  therein which contacts an inner wall  80  of housing  58 . The third and fourth shutter members may also include a perpendicular end  82  which may be located distal the respective spring  78  and spaced apart a distance approximately equal to a finger  84  on each of the first and second shutter members. Further, a separation wall  86  may extend inward from inner surface  80  and help to locate and maintain the location of spring  78  on the inner surface. While springs  78  (and all other springs disclosed herein) are shown and described as being compression or coil springs, any suitable biasing member may be incorporated without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. Such additional biasing members may include spring steel, torsion springs, tension springs, flat springs, or any other suitable biasing member. 
         [0079]      FIG. 6  illustrates a tamper resistant shutter system  44  with the shutter members and springs exploded from housing  58 . Both the third shutter member and the fourth shutter member include similar structure, but are oriented generally 180 degrees from one another within housing  58 . Thus, both the third shutter member and the fourth shutter members include a short side  88  and a long side  90 . Short side  88  may be located in the path of the electrical plug prongs to selectively prevent access to the electrical contacts below, while long side  90  may be oriented generally perpendicular to the short side. Short side  88  includes protrusion  76  and protrusion end  82  on a back side of each short side, while a blocking ledge  92  with a tapered end  94  is located on a front side. Long side  90  extends from the front side of the short side opposite perpendicular end  82  and each includes a guide  96  and an arm  98  extending beyond the guide. 
         [0080]    First and second shutter members  66  and  68  each include a blocking surface  100  located between pivot shoulders  70  and extending for at least the width of each opening  56  in the device face. Advantageously, blocking surface  100  initially prevents access to the electrical device contacts, while blocking ledge  92  of the third and fourth shutter members provides a secondary level of protection from the contacts. Still further, both the first and second shutter members each include a rounded engagement portion  102  extending below and forming part of finger  84 . Rounded engagement portion  102  is preferably rounded to contact arm  98  of the third and fourth shutter members during operation. As will be described in greater detail below, both rounded engagement portion  102  of the first and second shutter members and arms  98  of the third and fourth shutter members are rounded and/or complimentary shaped to one another so that during pivotable or rotational movement of the first and second shutter members, the third and fourth shutter members are linearly actuated or displaced by the respective first and second shutter members&#39; rotational movement. 
         [0081]      FIG. 7  illustrates shutter housing  58  without shutter members present. Shutter member housing  58  includes a base wall  104  with a central opening  106  and apertures  108  arranged to receive electrical plug prongs after passing through the tamper resistant shutter members. The shutter member housing also includes a perimeter front surface  110  extending along the width of the tamper resistant shutter system and located adjacent rear surface  54  of the device face after installation. 
         [0082]    Base  104  also includes a linear stop  112  having a raised edge  114  on the side of the linear stop closest to the respective aperture  108 . Raised edge  114  is used to limit the linear travel of the respective third and fourth shutter members in the closed position while the lower shutter members (third and fourth shutter members) are each biased by a spring into the raised edge  114  of the linear stops  112  adjacent apertures  108 . The base  104  also includes a pair of platforms  116  having a guide edge  118  and a curved portion  120 . Platforms  116  extend upward from base  104  with one platform  116  near each aperture  108  and the curved portion  120  oriented in the direction of the nearest upper shutter member (first or second shutter member) so that the first or second shutter members and the rounded engagement portion can pivot freely without interruption. Still further, guide edge  118  functions to align the respective lower shutter member during linear movement and prevent the lower shutter from binding or contacting other components. In one aspect illustrated in  FIG. 7 , a platform  116  is located in the top right and bottom left of the shutter housing, although the platforms  116  may be located in any location so long as they assist in guiding the lower shutter members and do not interfere with the movement and operation of the upper shutter members. 
         [0083]      FIG. 8  illustrates fourth shutter member  74  positioned within shutter housing  58  and biased in the closed position in the direction associated with arrow  122  by spring  78 . As can be seen, the blocking ledge  92  covers apertures  108  and prevents a foreign object from reaching the aperture. Tapered end  94  contacts linear stop  112  and particularly raised edge  114  of the linear stop to maintain the fourth shutter member in the closed position. Further, guide end  118  helps to maintain the lower shutter members in position along with walls of the shutter housing  58 . 
         [0084]    The fourth shutter member  74  is linearly or slidably moveable to an open position by moving fourth shutter member  74  in the direction associated with arrow  124 . First shutter member  66 , not shown in  FIG. 8  is oriented above long side  90  of fourth shutter member  74 . Specifically, finger  84  and rounded engagement portion  102  of the finger is oriented adjacent arm  98  of the fourth shutter member. When first shutter member  66  rotates about pivot shoulders  70 , rounded engagement portion  102  contacts the complimentary shaped arm  98  and imparts linear or sliding movement of the fourth shutter member in the direction associated with arrow  124 . The movement in the direction associated with arrow  124  includes sufficient force to overcome the resistance of spring  78  and thereby moves short side  88  of the fourth shutter member from in front of apertures  108 . While the movement directions are specific to the aspects disclosed in  FIG. 8 , it is within the spirit and scope of the disclosure to orient the shutter members in any number of suitable manners, as well as arrange the shutter members to pivot in the same directions or opposite directions. 
         [0085]      FIG. 9  illustrates second shutter member  68  in the closed position and mounted within shutter housing  58 . As discussed above, pivot shoulders  70  are pivotably located within grooves  64  in the perimeter front surface  110 . Blocking surface  100  is shown preventing access to the electrical contacts and is pivotably moveable to the open position by an object contacting the blocking surface. When the object contacts blocking surface  100 , a moment is created along the axis aligned with pivot shoulders  70 , thereby causing the second shutter member  68  to rotate about the pivot shoulders. Nevertheless, the second shutter member imparts linear or sliding movement on the third shutter member (not the fourth shutter member), and thereby does not permit access to the electrical contacts behind the second shutter member. In the same manner, the first shutter member rotational movement imparts linear or sliding movement on the fourth shutter member, thereby preventing access to the electrical contacts behind the first shutter member by only pivoting the first shutter member to the open position. One of ordinary skill in the art will immediately understand that both the first and second shutter members must be moved to the open position before the electrical contacts therein can be reached, thereby preventing unauthorized access to the electrical device contacts. 
         [0086]      FIG. 10  illustrates first shutter member  66  and fourth shutter member  74  mounted within shutter housing  58 . The second and third shutter members have been removed for clarity, although the function and operation of the shutter assembly remains the same for the second and third shutter members. As seen in the closed position, first shutter member  66  and blocking surface  100  prevent access to the electrical contacts on the left side as a first layer of protection. The first shutter member is operatively connected to only the fourth shutter member, therefore only movement of the first shutter member  66  will impart movement on the opposite side fourth shutter member  74 . As previously disclosed, rotating an upper shutter member (either the first or second shutter members) functions to permit the object to bypass the upper shutter member, but the lower shutter member (either the third or fourth shutter members) prevent access because only the opposing side upper shutter member can permit the object to pass the lower shutter member by sliding the lower shutter member open. 
         [0087]      FIG. 11  illustrates first shutter member  66  and fourth shutter member  74  mounted within shutter housing  58  in the open position. Specifically, blocking surface  100  has been contacted by an object, creating a moment at pivot shoulders  70  and grooves  64  to create pivotable movement of the first shutter member. As first shutter member  66  pivots to the open position, rounded engagement portion  102  of finger  84  contacts arm  98  of long side  90  on fourth shutter member  74 . The contact between rounded engagement portion  102  and arm  98  forces fourth shutter member  74  to the open position as the first shutter member rotates to the open position. As the first shutter member rotates to the open position, finger  84  and rounded engagement portion  102  extend further in the direction of the fourth shutter member as the first shutter member continues to rotate open. 
         [0088]    While  FIGS. 10 and 11  illustrate only the interaction between the first and fourth shutter members, the interaction between the second and third shutter members is identical, only mirrored. Thus, the second and third shutter members and the first and fourth shutter members operate as separate units, with the common purpose of preventing unauthorized access to the electrical contacts, unless both the first and second shutter members are pivoted to the open position. 
         [0089]    During assembly and operation, the shutter housing, first shutter member, second shutter member, third shutter member, fourth shutter member, and springs may each be formed separately. Springs  78  are installed on protrusions  76  and the third and fourth shutter members are located within shutter housing  58  with springs  78  contacting inner surface  80  and the third and fourth shutter member blocking ledges  92  contacting the respective linear stops  112 . Next, first and second shutter members are located within shutter housing  58 , with pivot shoulders  70  located within grooves  64 . When the first and second shutter members (upper shutter members) are initially installed, they are in a relaxed state without the springs providing reactive forces on the upper shutter members. When upper shutter members are rotated to the open position, each opposite lower shutter member (the third and fourth shutter members) are slidingly or linearly moved against the extension force of the respective spring to open the lower shutter members. When the lower shutters are in the open position, a restoring force is provided by the springs, which slides the lower shutter members to the closed position. Sliding the lower shutter members to the closed position operates to move arm  98  of the lower shutter member in the direction of the finger  84  and contacts the rounded engagement portion  102 , which forces the respective upper shutter member to rotate to the closed position. Once all four shutter members and the springs are installed, the shutter housing is installed on the rear surface of the electrical device face and mounting tabs  62  engage the electrical device face to mount the shutter housing. Accordingly, the shutter system is self-contained within the shutter housing and the electrical device face and prevents unauthorized access to the electrical contacts located in line with the tamper resistant shutter system. 
         [0090]    As disclosed in  FIGS. 1 through 11 , the first and second shutter members pivot instead of slide from the closed position to the open position. The first and second shutter members pivot towards one another in the direction of the electrical plug insertion or in the direction of the electrical contacts. One of ordinary skill in the art will immediately recognize that the first and second shutter members may rotate in the direction of the electrical plug insertion but at the same time rotate away from each other and pull, instead of push the lower shutter members to the open position or any combination thereof. 
         [0091]      FIGS. 12 through 18  illustrate a second aspect tamper resistant shutter system  126 . Tamper resistant shutter system  126  includes a first shutter member  128 , a second shutter member  130 , a third shutter member  132 , and a fourth shutter member  134 . Similar to the first aspect, first shutter member  128  and second shutter member  130  function as upper level shutter members which are contacted first and operate to open the lower shutter member (third shutter member  132  and fourth shutter member  134 ) as necessary. 
         [0092]    Both the first and second shutter members may include an angled contact surface  136  aligned to receive the electrical plug blades during use. The first and second shutter members are pivotably mounted within housing  58  along mounting rods  138  and the force generated by inserting the electrical plug forces the first and second shutter members to pivot in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the electrical plug insertion. Specifically, the first and second shutter members may pivot away from each other and against their respective springs  78 , that are biasing the first and second shutter members into the closed position. Thus, when the electrical plug is removed, the spring biases the respective shutter member into the closed position. While the figures illustrate the first and second shutter members pivoting away from one another, one of ordinary skill in the art will immediately recognize that the shutters could pivot toward one another. 
         [0093]    Referring to  FIGS. 14 through 16 , the first shutter member includes a gear  140  on mounting rod  138  that includes teeth to engage teeth  142  on a connecting rod  144  of fourth shutter member  134 . In a similar manner, second shutter member  130  includes a gear  146  on mounting rod  138  that includes teeth to engage teeth  148  on a connecting rod  150  of third shutter member  132 . Mounting rods  140  of the first and second shutter members are approximately the same length so that the first and second shutter members are located the same distance from the electrical device face and apertures  108 . However, gears  140  and  146  are preferably staggered along the length of mounting rods  138  so that they can each connect to the opposite side shutter member during operation (i.e. the first shutter member operates the fourth shutter member and the second shutter member operates the third shutter member). 
         [0094]      FIG. 16  illustrates both the first and second shutter members pivoted to the open position. First shutter member  128  pivots open in the direction associated with arrow  152 , while second shutter member  130  pivots open in the direction associated with arrow  154 . As discussed above, gears  140  and  146  are offset from one another and therefore teeth  142  and  148  are offset from one another so that teeth  142  are rotatably engaged with gear  140  and teeth  148  are rotatably engaged with gear  146 . Accordingly, any rotational movement of first shutter member  128  imparts rotational movement at gear  140  and teeth  142  which translates into rotational movement in the opposite direction at connecting arm  144 . Similarly, any rotational movement of second shutter member  130  imparts rotational movement at gear  146  and teeth  148  which translates into rotational movement in the opposite direction at connecting arm  150 . While the third and fourth shutter members are shown and described as rotating in a direction opposite to their corresponding upper shutter member, it is within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure to arrange the lower shutter members to rotate in the same direction as their corresponding upper shutter member. 
         [0095]      FIGS. 17 and 18  illustrate the operation of second shutter member  130 , mounting rod  138 , gear  146 , teeth  148 , connecting rod  144 , and third shutter member  132 . Second shutter member  130  is biased into the closed position to cover aperture  108  by spring  78 . When an electrical plug blade is inserted, the plug blade contacts angled contact surface  136  and imparts rotational movement on the second shutter member that is sufficient to overcome spring  78 . As the second shutter member rotates to the open position, mounting rod  138  and gear  146  also rotate in the same direction. The rotational movement at gear  146  contacts teeth  148  and causes teeth  148  and connecting arm  144  to rotate in the opposite direction. The rotational movement of connecting arm  144  also rotates the third shutter member to the open position to expose aperture  108 . Accordingly, without all four shutter members, an electrical plug can engage the electrical contacts, but with four shutter members, both upper shutter members must be rotated to the open position to move both of the lower shutter member to the open position. While particular directions of rotation are shown and described, the shutter members may pivot in the direction of the electrical plug insertion, the direction opposite the electrical plug insertion, towards one another, or away from one another without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. 
         [0096]      FIGS. 19 and 20  illustrate a third aspect tamper resistant shutter system  156 . Tamper resistant shutter system  156  is a hybrid of the first two aspect tamper resistant shutter systems with one of the upper shutter members being pivotable in the direction of the electrical plug insertion, while the other upper shutter member is pivotable in a direction generally perpendicular to the electrical plug insertion direction. Still further, one of the lower shutter members pivots to the open position, while the other lower shutter member slides to the open position. 
         [0097]    First shutter member  158  and fourth shutter member  164  are identical to first shutter member  66  and fourth shutter member  74  in both appearance and function. Second shutter member  160  and third shutter member  162  are similar to shutter members  130  and  132 . Accordingly, the functionality of first shutter member  158  and fourth shutter member  164  is identical in that the first shutter member pivots in the direction of plug insertion, thereby forcing the fourth shutter member to slide to the open position. Similarly, the functionality of the second shutter member  160  is identical in that the second shutter member pivots in a direction generally perpendicular to the electrical plug insertion and is pivoted outward to rotate about a mounting rod  166 . When mounting rod  166  is rotated, gear  168  is rotated, which in turn rotates idler gears  170 , which in turn rotates teeth  172  of third shutter member  162  in the open position. The addition of idler gears  170  does not change the spirit and scope of the operation, but merely provides another example of many possible component orientations. Given the structural and functional similarity of the third aspect tamper resistant shutter system to the first and second aspect tamper resistant shutter systems, additional structure and operation need not be provided beyond the Figures. 
         [0098]      FIGS. 21 through 26  illustrate a fourth aspect tamper resistant shutter system  174 . Tamper resistant shutter system  174  may be formed integral to the electrical device face adjacent apertures  56  in the device face. An aperture housing  176  extends from apertures  56  into the electrical device and defines a slot  178  for receiving the electrical plug blades during operation. Each slot  178  includes a hole  180  for receiving a tripping mechanism  182 . In one aspect, tripping mechanism  182  may be a photoelectric device with a reflecting mirror or receiving device  184  on the opposite side of the slot as tripping mechanism  182 . 
         [0099]    Each slot  178  is selectively enclosed on the back side by a shutter member  186  which may have a mounting rib  188  to connect the shutter member to a displacement rod  190 . Displacement rod  190  may be telescopically connected to a motor  192 , with a spacing shoulder  194  limiting the return travel of the displacement rod. While a telescopic displacement rod  190  is one suitable displacement means, any suitable means or method of moving shutter members  186  from the closed position to the open position may be utilized. While moving the shutter members vertically downward is illustrated in the drawings, the shutter members may be slid in any suitable direction or pivoted in any suitable direction without departing from the sprit and scope of the disclosure. 
         [0100]    Still further, a stop ledge  196  may be located below each of housings  176 , or even formed integral with housings  176 , to limit the distance the shutter members can travel in the opening direction. As illustrated in  FIGS. 22 ,  24 , and  26 , when shutter members  186  are moved to the open position, mounting rib  188  travels with the shutter member until the mounting rib contacts stop ledge  196  at the open position. 
         [0101]    In one aspect, tripping mechanism  182  of one opening  56  may operate to open shutter members  186  of both openings, while in another aspect, each tripping mechanism  182  only operates the shutter member aligned with each tripping mechanism. In still another aspect, the tripping mechanism of one side operates the shutter member of the opposite side. In this arrangement, a user may only reach the electrical contacts when an electrical plug prong is inserted into both openings  56  to the point that both tripping mechanisms  182  are triggered to the open position. 
         [0102]    While a photoelectric triggering mechanism is shown and described, any suitable trigger mechanism may be utilized, including but not limited to a limit switch that is compressed during electrical plug blade insertion, a proximity switch, a contact switch, or any other suitable sensing or switching mechanism. 
         [0103]      FIGS. 27 through 30  illustrate a fifth aspect tamper resistant shutter system  198 . Tamper resistant shutter system  198  is similar to the first aspect tamper resistant system in that rotational movement of the upper shutter members is translated into sliding or linear movement of the lower shutter members. Nevertheless, tamper resistant shutter system  198  is arranged and functions in a different manner. 
         [0104]    Tamper resistant shutter system  198  includes a housing  200  with a first shutter member  202 , a second shutter member  204 , a third shutter member  206 , and a fourth shutter member  208 . First shutter member  202  may be engaged with third shutter member  206 , while second shutter member  204  may be engaged with fourth shutter member  208 . The first and second shutter members may include an angled contact surface  210  arranged to contact the third or fourth shutter member, respectively. The first and second shutter members also include a mounting rod  212  which are rotatably secured within grooves  214  of housing  200 . Mounting rods  212  are preferably offset from apertures  216  so that the first and second shutter members can pivot without interference. 
         [0105]    Third and fourth shutter members  206  and  208  each include a blocking sheet  218  with recessed edges  220  arranged to be secured between aperture guards  222 . Aperture guards  222  assist in locating blocking sheet  218  during operation and may function as a track or guide for blocking sheet movement. The third and fourth shutter members each include a spacing arm  224  extending away from a back surface of blocking sheet  218 . Further, a sliding arm  226  is mounted to spacing arm  224  in a generally perpendicular orientation and arranged behind the respective first and second shutter members. Specifically, sliding arm  226  of the fourth shutter member is located behind the first shutter member, while the sliding arm  226  of the third shutter member is located behind the second shutter member. Accordingly, this arrangement again ensures that inserting an object in one of the electrical device openings does not fully open the electrical device to engage the electrical contacts unless an object is inserted into both of the electrical device openings. 
         [0106]    The operation of tamper resistant shutter system  198  is similar to the first aspect tamper resistant shutter system, in that the first and second shutter members are rotated to the open position and thereby slide the respective third and fourth shutter members to the open position. Nevertheless, the operation is different in that the shutter members rotate in a direction 180 degrees from those of the first aspect. Specifically, the first and second shutter members pivot in a direction about the shortest length of apertures  216  in a direction generally opposite one another. However, it is within the spirit and scope of the disclosure for the first and second shutter members to pivot in the same direction. When the first and second shutter member rotate, they each contact the respective sliding arm  226 , which in turn forces blocking sheet  218  out of aperture  216  to permit the electrical plug blade to pass through the opening. The mounting rods  212  or the lower shutter members may also be spring biased to the closed position to automatically return the shutter members to the closed position after the electrical plugs are removed. 
         [0107]      FIGS. 31 through 34  illustrate a sixth aspect tamper resistant shutter system  228 . Tamper resistant shutter system  228  includes a housing  230  having a front wall  232  arranged to be located behind and adjacent an electrical device face and a rear wall  234  having a pair of apertures  236 . Apertures  236  are aligned with openings  56  in the device face  42  and electrical contacts are positioned behind apertures  236 . A cavity  238  may be formed in housing  230  and specifically front wall  232 . Cavity  238  is selectively covered by a shutter member  240  having a pair of rods  242 . Each rod  242  extends from a bottom edge of shutter member  240  and may include a flat top and bottom walls  244  and arcuate side walls  246 . 
         [0108]    Housing  230  includes a pair of slots  248  and pivot apertures  250  extending through front wall  232  towards rear wall  234  and in communication with cavity  238 . Slots  248  are generally rectangular in shape and extend a predetermined distance until reaching pivot apertures  250  which may be wider than slots  248 . Slots  248  extend long enough so that if a user attempts to insert an object into only one opening  56  of the electrical device, one side of the shutter member is forced backwards into pivot aperture  250 . While the side of the shutter member has been pushed back into position within pivot aperture  250  for rotational movement, with the other side still within slot  248 , the shutter member is incapable of rotating to the open position and providing access to the electrical contacts. 
         [0109]    During normal operation, both electrical plug blades contact shutter member  240  virtually simultaneously, thereby sliding shutter member  240  rearward until rods  242  are located within pivot apertures  250 . Shutter member  240  slides rearward because rods  242  include the flat top and bottom walls  244  which are complimentary shaped and sized to slot  248 , thereby permitting only sliding movement when rod  242  is within slot  248 . Once rods  242  are within pivot aperture  250 , arcuate side walls  246  mate with pivot aperture  250  to provide rotational movement, but only if both rods  242  are located within pivot apertures  250 . A spring (not shown) may be located behind shutter member  240  to bias the shutter member in the closed position, while a stop (also not shown) may be used to limit the shutter member travel in the closing direction, or the back of device face  42  may be utilized as a stop. 
         [0110]    Thus, it is seen that tamper resistant shutter system  228  advantageously restricts access to the electrical contacts unless an electrical plug blade simultaneously contacts shutter member  240  during the full length of slot  248  during plug blade insertion. 
         [0111]      FIGS. 35 through 38  illustrate a seventh aspect tamper resistant shutter assembly  252 . Tamper resistant shutter assembly  252  includes a housing  254  with a first shutter member  256 , a second shutter member  258 , a third shutter member  260 , and a fourth shutter member  262 . The seventh aspect tamper resistant shutter assembly is similar to the first aspect shutter assembly in that the first and second shutter members  256  and  258  pivot to the open position and slide the third and fourth shutter members  260  and  262  to the open position. Once again, springs  264  bias third and fourth shutter members  260  and  262  to the closed position. Nevertheless, tamper resistant shutter assembly  252  operates with first and second shutter members  256  and  258  pivoting in the direction of the electrical plug insertion, but in directions generally opposite one another and pivoting about the longest side of openings  266  in housing  254 . In the same manner, third and fourth shutter members  260  and  262  each slide to the open position in directions generally towards one another. 
         [0112]    Referring to  FIG. 35 , both third and fourth shutter members  260  and  262  include a blocking surface  268  with a transfer portion  270  having an angled surface  272  arranged to engage with the respective upper shutter member ( 256  or  258 ) during operation. Angled surface  272  is arranged to permit first and second shutter members  256  and  258  to pivot or rotate enough to clear the path of the electrical plug blades before contacting the transfer portion in one implementation. After the first and second shutter members have pivoted into contact with angled surface  272  of transfer portion  270 , the first and second shutter members continue to rotate, thereby sliding the third and fourth shutter members linearly and moving blocking surfaces  268  towards one another to allow the electrical plug blades to extend through openings  266 . 
         [0113]    After the electrical plug blades are removed from the electrical device and the tamper resistant shutter assembly, springs  264  are biased to slide the respective lower shutter members ( 260  and  262 ) into the closed position and both transfer portion  270  and angled surface  272  interact with upper shutter member  256  and  258  to pivot or rotate the upper shutter members to the closed position. A stop  274  is utilized adjacent openings  266  and extends from the base of housing  254  to limit the travel of the third and fourth shutter members, respectively, in the closing direction. 
         [0114]    Further, the operation of tamper resistant shutter system  252  is also similar to the first aspect tamper resistant shutter system in that the first shutter member pivotally or rotationally contacts the fourth shutter member for linear movement, while the second shutter member pivotally or rotationally contacts the third shutter member for linear movement. 
         [0115]      FIGS. 39 through 45  illustrate an eighth aspect tamper resistant shutter system  276  with a device face  42  having a front surface  52 , openings  56 , and a perpendicular prong opening  278 . System  276  includes a housing  58  with a first stop wall  280  limiting travel of the shutters and a second stop  282  generally perpendicular to the first stop to limit the travel of a perpendicular prong shutter  284 . The housing may also include a perpendicular prong shutter guide  286  extending from the shutter and arranged to mate with a slot  288  in the perpendicular prong shutter  284 , while a first divider  290  may extend from first stop  280  to separate the springs and a second divider  292  may extend inward from housing  58  to assist in locating a lower shutter during operation (described in greater detail below). 
         [0116]    Similar to many of the previously disclosed tamper resistant shutter systems, the eighth aspect shutter system includes four shutter members, with a first shutter member  294  and a second shutter member  296  acting as upper shutter members and a third shutter member  298  and a fourth shutter member  300  acting as lower shutter members. Once again, the first and second shutter members pivot from the closed position to the open position about pivot shoulders  70 . However, unlike some of the previous aspects, the upper shutter members may pivot in the same direction and push/pull the lower shutter members in the same direction. Nevertheless, the same concept is utilized where the upper shutter member of one side operates the lower shutter on the opposite side. Further, both upper shutter members include blocking surface  100 , finger  84 , and rounded engagement portion  102 . 
         [0117]    The lower shutter members each include blocking ledge  92  with tapered end  94 , guide  96 , and arm  98  which is arranged to contact the respective upper shutter member during opening and closing. Fourth shutter member  300  may also include an alignment notch  302  arranged to align with second divider  292  during operation. Further, third shutter member  298  may include a locking arm  304  with a locking ledge  306  which interacts with perpendicular prong shutter  284  as will be discussed in greater detail below. Finally, both the lower shutter members include spring mounts  308  arranged to hold a spring  310  and bias the lower shutter members into the closed position and thereby also bias the upper shutter members into the closed position. 
         [0118]    The operation of the upper and lower shutter members is similar to previous aspects disclosed herein and the upper shutter members pivot in the same direction to slide the lower shutter members. 
         [0119]    Shutter system  276  also includes perpendicular shutter  284  to limit access to the electrical contacts while still permitting a  20  amp electrical plug to be inserted within the device. Perpendicular shutter member  284  includes a sloped outer surface  312  with a raised contact surface  314 . The combination of the two surfaces  312  and  314  permits the perpendicular shutter member to be located below the contact surface of blocking ledge blocking surface  100  of the upper shutter members. Accordingly, the upper shutter members are contacted and partially rotate, thereby sliding the respective lower shutter members prior to the electrical plug contacting the perpendicular shutter member  284  in a direction indicated by arrows  400  and  401  in  FIG. 44 . When the lower shutter members slide open, locking ledge  306  is pulled out of locking aperture  316  of perpendicular shutter member  284  to permit the perpendicular shutter member to move to the open position as indicated by arrow  402  in  FIG. 44 . 
         [0120]    Specifically, perpendicular shutter member  284  is biased to the closed position with a spring  318  mounted between a spring tab  320  on a rear portion  322  and housing  58 . Locking apertures  316  permit the perpendicular shutter member to travel upward when contacting locking ledge  306 , while resisting downward movement (or movement in the opening direction). Thus, perpendicular shutter member  284  can be moved to the closed position by spring  318  at any time against locking ledge  306 , but cannot be moved to the open position unless the locking ledge is removed from locking aperture  316 . As can be seen in the FIGS and description, the operation is similar to previous aspects, the additional step of clearing the perpendicular shutter member may occur before, after, or during the upper and lower shutter member movement without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. 
         [0121]      FIG. 46  illustrates a Chinese electrical device  330  incorporating any of the above-referenced tamper resistant shutter systems. Electrical device  330  also includes a plurality of apertures  332  of various shapes, sizes, and orientations to receive the correct electrical plug. While the aperture shape, size, and orientation may vary, the tamper resistant system components and operation remains the same as any of the above disclosed aspects. Thus, it is seen that the tamper resistant shutter system may be incorporated to work with any number of electrical plugs and various types of plug arrangements. 
         [0122]      FIGS. 47 and 48  illustrate an extension cord  334  having a first end  336  with a plug  338  thereon and a second end  340  opposite the first end and having a receptacle  342 . Second end  340  includes tamper resistant shutter system  44  located within second end housing  346  and specifically second end housing opening  348 . Further, electrical contacts  344  are disposed within second end housing  346  and arranged to receive an electrical plug and provide electrical current. A faceplate  350  may be integrally formed with second end housing  346  or removeably secured to the second end housing and is arranged to secure the tamper resistant shutter system  44 . As discussed above, the tamper resistant shutter system  44  functions identical to the similarly numbered embodiment above, or any other tamper resistant shutter discussed herein in relation to other embodiments. 
         [0123]    Referring now to  FIGS. 49 and 50 , a power tap style device  352  is illustrated having first end  336  with plug  448  and a plurality of second ends  340 , each second end  340  having a receptacle  342  thereon. As discussed with reference to  FIGS. 47 and 48 , the power tap  352  includes a plurality of second end housing  346 , each having a tamper resistant shutter system  44  (as discussed above) therein. Further, faceplates  350  may be integral with second end housing  346  or a removable component. Regardless, faceplates  350  each provide an outer boundary for the tamper resistant shutter system and prevent dislocation of the tamper resistant shutter system. This embodiment will also work with any other tamper resistant shutter discussed herein in relation to other embodiments. 
         [0124]      FIGS. 51 and 52  illustrate a power strip style device  354  having a first end  336  with a plug  338  and a second end  356 . Second end  356  includes a plurality of electrical receptacle slots  358  for receiving electrical plugs. Further, second end  356  includes a power control switch  360  which can limit the electrical flow to electrical receptacle slots  358 . Second end  356  includes a base  362 , a top plate  364 , and a plurality of electrical contacts  366 . Electrical contacts  366  are secured between the base plate  362  and the top plate  364 . Still further, a plurality of tamper resistant shutter members  44  are secured between the base  362  and the top plate  364 , with a single tamper resistant shutter system limiting contact to each set of electrical contacts  366 . Advantageously, each tamper resistant shutter system is independently operated to limit contact with the electrical contacts therein. This embodiment will work with any other tamper resistant shutter system discussed herein in relation to other embodiments. 
         [0125]    In these and in any other aspects, the tamper resistant shutter assembly may be made of any materials and fabricated and/or assembled in any manner. For instance the tamper resistant shutter assembly may be manufactured from various different pieces and then screwed or glued together. In one embodiment for instance the shutter assemblies are molded of two pieces of plastic which are then ultrasonic welded together. The various elements, such as portions of the shutter members, may be manufactured as one piece or may be manufactured as separate pieces to be joined together. 
         [0126]    It will be understood that implementations are not limited to the specific components disclosed herein, as virtually any components consistent with the intended operation of a method and/or system implementation for a tamper resistant shutter assembly may be utilized. Accordingly, for example, although particular bodies, arms, springs, and other components are disclosed, such components may comprise any shape, size, style, type, model, version, class, grade, measurement, concentration, material, weight, quantity, and/or the like consistent with the intended operation of a method and/or system implementation for a tamper resistant shutter assembly. Implementations are not limited to uses of any specific components, provided that the components selected are consistent with the intended operation of a method and/or system implementation for a tamper resistant shutter assembly. 
         [0127]    Accordingly, the components defining any tamper resistant shutter assembly implementation may be formed of any of many different types of materials or combinations thereof that can readily be formed into shaped objects provided that the components selected are consistent with the intended operation of a tamper resistant shutter assembly implementation. For example, the components may be formed of: rubbers (synthetic and/or natural) and/or other like materials; glasses (such as fiberglass), carbon-fiber, aramid-fiber, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; polymers such as thermoplastics (such as ABS, Fluoropolymers, Polyacetal, Polyamide; Polycarbonate, Polyethylene, Polysulfone, and/or the like), thermosets (such as Epoxy, Phenolic Resin, Polyimide, Polyurethane, Silicone, and/or the like), any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; composites and/or other like materials; metals, such as zinc, magnesium, titanium, copper, iron, steel, carbon steel, alloy steel, tool steel, stainless steel, aluminum, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; alloys, such as aluminum alloy, titanium alloy, magnesium alloy, copper alloy, any combination thereof, and/or other like materials; any other suitable material; and/or any combination thereof. 
         [0128]    Furthermore, the components defining any tamper resistant electrical device implementation may be purchased pre-manufactured or manufactured separately and then assembled together. However, any or all of the components may be manufactured simultaneously and integrally joined with one another. Manufacture of these components separately or simultaneously may involve extrusion, pultrusion, vacuum forming, injection molding, blow molding, resin transfer molding, casting, forging, cold rolling, milling, drilling, reaming, turning, grinding, stamping, cutting, bending, welding, soldering, hardening, riveting, punching, plating, and/or the like. If any of the components are manufactured separately, they may then be coupled with one another in any manner, such as with adhesive, a weld (e.g. an ultrasonic weld), a fastener (e.g. a bolt, a nut, a screw, a nail, a rivet, a pin, and/or the like), wiring, any combination thereof, and/or the like for example, depending on, among other considerations, the particular material forming the components. Other possible steps might include sand blasting, polishing, powder coating, zinc plating, anodizing, hard anodizing, and/or painting the components for example. 
         [0129]    The implementations listed here, and many others, will become readily apparent from this disclosure. From this, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily understand the versatility with which this disclosure may be applied.