Patent Publication Number: US-9402472-B1

Title: Electrical appliance holder system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/758,258, filed Feb. 4, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,013,071, which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/960,649, filed Dec. 6, 2010, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,810,076, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/266,832, filed Dec. 4, 2009, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     For a more complete understanding of the present invention, and the advantages thereof, reference is now made to the following descriptions taken in conjunction with the accompanying figures, in which: 
       FIG. 1  is front perspective view of an electrical appliance holder system constructed in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of an appliance holder assembly of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3 a    is a perspective view of a receptacle insert of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3 b    is a perspective view of another embodiment of a receptacle insert of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3 c    is a perspective view of receptacle cover of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 4  is cross-sectional side view of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 5  is a top plan view of a cord storage panel of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 6  is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an electrical appliance holder system constructed in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 7  is a front elevational view of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 6 , shown with a panel door of the system in an open configuration; 
       FIG. 8  is a front perspective view of still another embodiment of an electrical appliance holder system constructed in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 9  is a top perspective view of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 8 ; 
       FIG. 10  is a side elevational view of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 8  mounted on a pivotable carriage assembly and incorporated with a cabinet assembly, in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 11  is a front perspective view of another embodiment of an appliance holder system mounted on a linearly movable carriage assembly and shown in a retracted position within a cabinet assembly, in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 12  is a side elevational view of the appliance holder system of  FIG. 11 , shown in an extended position; 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective bottom view of the appliance holder assembly of  FIG. 5 , shown with a power strip having a kill switch assembly that is constructed in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 14  is a schematic of the power strip of  FIG. 13 ; 
       FIG. 15  is a perspective view of a hinge for use in an appliance holder system and that is constructed in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 16  is a partially sectioned, side elevational view of a receptacle insert assembly constructed in accordance with the invention; 
       FIG. 17A  is side elevational view of cord clip coupling mechanism for use with the assemblies and systems of the invention; 
       FIG. 17B  is side elevational view of an alternate cord clip coupling mechanism for use with the assemblies and systems of the invention; 
       FIG. 18  is a side elevational view of cord coupling mechanism with a cooperating coupling mechanism of a power cord for use with the assemblies and systems of the invention; 
       FIG. 19  is a plan view of a power cord storage assembly employing cord coupling mechanisms of  FIG. 18 ; and 
       FIG. 20  is a top plan view of an appliance receptacle assembly employing employing cord coupling mechanisms  FIG. 18 . 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , an embodiment of an appliance holder system  10  for holding and storing electrical handheld appliances is shown. In particular, the appliance holder system  10  is the type used for holding electrical handheld appliances having an electrical power cord attached to the appliance for plugging into an electrical outlet. Non-limiting examples of electrical appliances for which the system  10  may be used include hair and bathroom appliances. These may include hair dryers, curling irons, flat irons, electric toothbrushes, water picks, shavers, clippers, etc., although other items (e.g. hairbrushes, combs, picks, etc.) and appliances may be held and stored in the system  10 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the system  10  may be incorporated into a cabinet assembly  12 . The cabinet assembly  12  may be generally conventional in configuration and may include those cabinets assemblies commonly found in houses and other dwellings. In many applications, the cabinet assembly  12  is one that is provided in a bathroom, salon or barber shop, although it may be found or used in other areas as well. The cabinet assembly  12  includes a generally level and flat countertop  14 . The countertop is typically provided at a height above the floor that is about waist level. This may range from about 20 to about 45 inches or more, more typically from about 30 to about 40 inches. The countertop  14  may have any suitable depth, although typical depths range from about 18 to about 30 inches or more, more typically from about 18 to about 24 inches. 
     It should be noted in the description, if a numerical value or range is presented, each numerical value should be read once as modified by the term “about” (unless already expressly so modified), and then read again as not so modified unless otherwise indicated in context. Also, in the description, it should be understood that an amount range listed or described as being useful, suitable, or the like, is intended that any and every value within the range, including the end points, is to be considered as having been stated. For example, “a range of from 1 to 10” is to be read as indicating each and every possible number along the continuum between about 1 and about 10. Thus, even if specific points within the range, or even no point within the range, are explicitly identified or refer to, it is to be understood that the inventor appreciates and understands that any and all points within the range are to be considered to have been specified, and that inventor possesses the entire range and all points within the range. 
     The cabinet assembly  12  may constitute a vanity cabinet assembly, such as found in bathrooms and the like, and that includes a sink assembly  16  having a basin or sink  18  that may be provided in the countertop  14  for collecting water from a faucet  20  that is plumbed to a suitable water supply (not shown). Suitable controls  22  may be provided for controlling water flow to the faucet  20 . In other embodiments, the cabinet assembly  12  may not include a sink assembly. The basin  18  of the sink assembly  16  may be recessed so that it extends into and projects below the countertop  14  into an interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . The basin  18  may include a drain  24  that is coupled to suitable plumbing for drainage. 
     The cabinet assembly  12  may include a forward facing door or doors  26  located at the front of the cabinet assembly  12  for accessing the interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . In the embodiment shown, there are a pair of doors  26  arranged side-by-side that are each mounted on hinges (not shown) along their outer side edges to allow pivotal movement of the doors  26  and thus allow selective access to the cabinet interior. In other embodiments, a single larger door hinged along one side may be used instead of the pair of doors for accessing the interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . 
     The front face of the cabinet assembly  12  may be framed or unframed. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the front face of the cabinet assembly  12  is framed with framing members  28 ,  30 A,  30 B,  32 ,  34 , with the doors  26  covering openings defined by the upright framing members  28 ,  30 A,  30 B and transverse cross member  32 . In other embodiments, the cabinet assembly  12  may have a non-framed forward face that does not include any framing members. 
     In certain embodiments, the cabinet assembly  12  may includes sidewalls  36 , which may be formed from cabinetry materials or may be formed by a wall or walls of the room or building in which the cabinet assembly  12  is used. 
     It should be understood that the cabinet assembly  12  of  FIG. 1  may be representative of only a section of a larger cabinet assembly, as the counter top  14  and underlying cabinetry structures may extend for some distance from either side, with additional doors (not shown) for accessing the interior of these extended portions of cabinet interior below the extended countertop  14 , which may or may not include any additional sink assembly, such as the sink assembly  16 . Optionally or additionally, drawer assemblies (not shown) or other cabinetry components may be provided in these extended portions of the cabinet assembly. Thus, it should be understood that the cabinet assembly  12  shown in  FIG. 1  is that which may correspond to a section of cabinetry generally corresponding to the widths used for a large single door or pair of smaller doors  26 , as shown and described. This width may vary, but a typical width is from about 18 to 60 inches, more typically from about 22 to about 36 inches. Common widths for vanity cabinets range from about 24 to about 30 inches. 
     The cabinet assembly  12  may be a free-standing cabinet assembly that is independent of any building structure or may be built into a building structure. In certain embodiments, the cabinet assembly  12  may be a preexisting cabinet assembly that does not include an appliance holder system but is further modified to incorporate the components of the appliance holder system. In other embodiments, the cabinet assembly  12  may be prefabricated, constructed or manufactured to include the appliance holder system components. 
     The forward face of the cabinet assembly  12  may include a space or area  37  below the countertop  14  and above the doors  26 . In conventional vanity cabinet assemblies that include a sink, the space  37  above the doors  26  is typically covered by a false panel that is fixed in place to cover the opening  37 . In the present invention, this false panel is replaced or modified by a pivotal panel door  38  that is mounted to the cabinet assembly by hinges  40 , which may be located at the inward bottom corners of the panel  38  so that the panel  38  pivots about a longitudinal axis located generally along the lower edge of the panel  38 . The upper edge of the panel  38  may be free so that it can be rotated away from the upper edge of the opening  37 . The hinges  40  may limit the degree of rotation (e.g. 90-degree hinges) of the panel door  38  so that when the panel  38  is fully opened it is located in a general horizontal position, as shown in  FIG. 1 . In other embodiments, the angle of rotation allowed by the hinges  40  may vary, such as between from about 60 to about 180 degrees. When closed, the panel door  38  is oriented in a generally upright or vertical position and may be generally flush with the forward face of the cabinet assembly  12  and may have the appearance of a conventional false panel. In certain embodiments, all or a portion of the panel door  38  may be set within the opening  37  itself so that the forward face of the panel  38  is generally flush with structural members of the cabinet. In certain embodiments, a handle or handles (not shown) may be provided on the forward face of the panel  38  to facilitate opening and closing of the panel door  38 . 
     In certain applications, the false panel of an existing cabinet assembly with which the holder system  10  is incorporated is removed and used as the pivotal panel  38 . Because the inward face of any existing false panels are typically unfinished, the inward face or other areas may be further modified or finished by cutting, smoothing, sanding, staining, painting, etc., since they will become visible during use. In other embodiments, a separate panel may be used to replace any existing false panel, which is removed. 
     In the embodiment shown, the panel  38  is installed within the framed area of the cabinet assembly  12  to cover the opening  37  defined by the framing members  30 A,  30 B,  32  and  34 . In non-framed cabinet assemblies, additional support or framing members (not shown) similar to the members  30 A,  30 B,  32  or  34 , may be employed to facilitate mounting of the pivotal panel  38 . 
     A releasable latching mechanism may be employed to retain the panel  38  in place in the upright closed position. The latching mechanism may be any suitable releasable latching mechanism that holds the panel  38  in the closed and upright position. An example of a suitable latching mechanism includes a magnetic latching mechanism such as formed by a permanent magnetic and/or ferromagnetic plates or members  42 ,  44  provided on the panel  44  and framing structures. Non-magnetic latching mechanisms may also be used. In other embodiments, the latching mechanism may be provided by the hinges  40 , which may be spring biased hinges that are biased to a closed position. The biasing force of the hinges  40  may be that which is exerted sufficiently to close the panel  38  only when the panel  38  is at an intermediate position and that is overcome or reduced when the panel  38  is fully open so that the panel  38  remains in the fully open position during use. Other latching mechanisms may also be used for releasably retaining the panel  38  in the open or closed positions. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , an appliance holder assembly  46  is shown. The appliance holder assembly  46  includes an appliance holder panel or member  48 , which may be a generally flat panel or member. Other configurations for the panel or member  48  may be used, which may be non-flat. The size of the panel  48  may be fixed or it may be adjustable to different sizes. In certain embodiments, the panel may have a length of from about 18 inches to about 36 inches, but a typical width is from about 20 to 30 inches, more typically from about 22 to about 28 inches. In one embodiment, the panel  48  has a length of about 24 inches. 
     The panel  48  is provided with one or more openings or receptacles, represented generally at  50 , formed along its length. The receptacles  50  may be of different sizes and configurations for receiving various handheld appliances in accordance with the invention. Examples of suitable sizes for the receptacles  50  may include those with a transverse cross dimension or diameter of about 1 inch or less to about 5 or 6 inches or more. 
     Optional receptacle inserts, such as the inserts  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58 , may be received within the receptacles  50  of the panel  48 . The inserts  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58  may be removable or fixed within the openings  50 . The receptacle inserts may facilitate absorption and dissipation of heat from stored devices or appliances. The receptacles may vary in size, shape and configuration. The size and shape of the receptacle inserts  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58  may correspond to the size and shape of the receptacle  50  in which they are positioned. As an illustrative example, the insert  52  may have a diameter of approximately 1½ inch, the insert  54  may have a diameter of 3 inches and the inserts  56 ,  58  may each have diameters of 2 inches. The length of the inserts may range from about 1 inch to about 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 inches or more. It should be noted that unless otherwise stated or is apparent from its context, the expression “receptacle” or similar expressions may be used interchangeably with respect to the openings  50  and the receptacle inserts, as they may each function as receptacles for storing appliances or other items. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 a   , a vented insert  60  is shown, which is representative of the inserts  52 ,  56  and  58  of  FIG. 2 . The receptacle insert  60  includes a receptacle insert body  62 . The insert body  62  may be configured as a tube or cylinder having a sidewall  64  that extends from an open upper end  66  to define a hollow interior of the insert body  62  and that extends to an open lower end. The upper end of the insert  60  may be provided with retaining member  68 , which may be in the form of an annular flange that projects radially from the sidewall  64 . The retaining member  68  may engage and abut the area of the panel  48  surrounding the opening  50  into which the insert is received to retain the insert in place with the receptacle  50 . The receptacle inserts or portions thereof can be made with any material designed to withstand high heat or temperatures. Non-limiting examples of suitable materials may include metal, stainless steel, silicone, fiberglass, heat-resistant plastics, ceramics, and the like, and combinations of such materials. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 a   , the receptacle insert  60  may also contain one or more vents or openings  70  formed in the sidewall  64 . A plurality of openings  70  may be formed in the sidewall  64  that are arranged along all or a portion of the length and around all or a portion of the circumference of the sidewall  64 . The plurality of openings may be similar or dissimilar in shape and size. The openings  70  may be formed as circles, ovals, squares, rectangular, polygons, elongated slits, etc. A non-limiting example of a suitable size for the openings  70  include those having a diameter or transverse cross dimensions of from about 1/16 inch to about ¾ inch or more. The openings  70  facilitate ventilating of the interior of the insert body  62  to dissipate heat given off by the appliances held therein. This may increase the life of the stored appliance, which may be prone to overheat if kept in a non-ventilated area. The vented receptacle insert  60  thus makes the appliance holder system  10  particularly well suited for storing and holding heated electrical appliances. 
     An optional end cap  72  may also be provided with the receptacle insert  60  to facilitate closing of the opening of the lower end of insert body  62  to prevent passage of objects therethrough. The end cap  72  is configured for engagement with the lower end of the insert body  62  and may be constructed of the same or similar materials. The end cap  72  may be configured as a cup having a base  74  with an upwardly extending collar or wall  76  that is configured for either receiving the lower end of the insert body  62  or being received within the lower end of the insert body  62  and sized and configured accordingly. The base  74  and/or collar  76  may also be provided with vents or openings  78 , which may be similar to those openings  70  formed in the sidewall  64 . The end cap  72  may be held in place by a frictional fit or by cooperating threads formed on the collar  76  and of the lower end of the insert body  62 . Other coupling or fastening means may also be used. The end cap  72  may removably coupled or be permanently coupled to the insert body  62 . In other embodiments, the insert body  62  itself may be formed so that the lower end is closed off and so that no separate end cap is required. In such embodiments, the closed lower end may be provided with or without vents or openings. 
       FIG. 3 b    shows another receptacle insert  80 , which may representative of the insert  54  of  FIG. 2 . The insert  80  is similar to the insert  60  of  FIG. 3 a   . The insert  80  has an insert body  82  that may be configured as a tube or cylinder having a sidewall  84  that extends from an open upper end  86  to define a hollow interior of the insert body  82  and that extends to an open lower end. The upper end of the insert  80  may be provided with a retaining member  88 , which may be an outwardly extending member, such as an annular flange that projects radially outward from the sidewall  84 . The insert  80  differs from the insert  60  in that it lacks openings or vents in the sidewall  84  and is open at the end. The insert  80  may also configured with a larger diameter or cross dimension (e.g. 3 inches or more) and be shorter than the insert  60  The insert  80  may be used for retaining larger appliances, such as hair or blow dryers, while the inserts  60  may be used for smaller articles, such as curling irons, etc. In other embodiments, the insert  80  may be smaller than the vented insert  60 . 
     In certain embodiments, O-rings or other mounting devices (not shown) can be used to further secure a receptacle insert in place within the panel  48 , if necessary. In one example, this can be done by placing the receptacle insert into the appliance holder opening  50  and then placing an elastomeric O-ring or other member that fits snuggly over the lower end of the receptacle insert, pushing it up to the base of where the receptacle meets the lower surface of the appliance holder panel  48 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 c   , an optional receptacle cover  89  may also be provided with the system  10  and placed in the openings or over the receptacle inserts of the panel  48  to close or cover the receptacles and provide a flat and finished surface for receptacles that are not in use. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 2 , the appliance holder assembly  46  further includes a mounting bracket assembly that includes left and right mounting bracket arms  90  that are each coupled at a forward end to opposite sides of the appliance holder panel  48 . Panel brackets  92  secured to the lower surface of the panel  48  may facilitate securing of the panel  48  to the bracket arms  90 , although other coupling mechanisms may also be used. The panel brackets  92  may couple to the panel at various positions to facilitate the desired spacing of the bracket arms  90 . This may be accomplished by providing mounting holes  93  of the brackets  92  at various positions, such as shown in  FIG. 13 . As shown, the bracket arms  90  may be adjustably coupled to the panel  48 . An elongated slot  94  formed in the arms  90  may be used for this purpose. A releasable fastener(s)  96 , such as a cooperating threaded bolt(s) and wing nut(s), that is received within the slot  94  may be used to adjustably mount the panel  48  to the bracket arms  90 . This allows the panel  48  to be moved to different locations along the length of the mounting bracket arms  90  and at different angled positions relative to the mounting arms  90 . As shown in  FIG. 4 , the surface plane of the panel  48  may be oriented at an angle (e.g. 45 degrees) about a central longitudinal axis from a level or horizontal position. In certain embodiments, the surface plane of the panel  48  may be oriented from 0 degrees to 60 degrees or more from a horizontal orientation, although various orientations may be used. The insert bodies (i.e.  62 ,  82 ) will typically be oriented perpendicularly to the surface plane of the panel  48 , although other orientations may be used. 
     The rearward end of the bracket arms  90  may be provided with or coupled to mounting flanges  98  that may abut against a back wall or other structure  100  ( FIG. 4 ) located within the interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . If the back wall  100  of the cabinet assembly  12  constitutes dry wall or other materials that may not provide a sufficient or secure structural support to secure the appliance holder assembly  46 , additional support structures or members, such as wooden support beams, may be provided and mounted within the interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . As can be seen more readily in  FIG. 4 , the bracket arms extend forward from the back wall  100  a sufficient distance so that the panel  48  is located forward of the sink basin  18 , plumbing  102  or other structures located within the interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . The arms  90  are also spaced a sufficient distance apart to clear the sink basin  18  and plumbing structures  102 . Adjustment of the position of the panel  48  may be made by sliding the fastener  96  within the slots  94  of the mounting arms  90 . Additionally, the panel  48  may be oriented at a desired orientation to face the opening  37 . 
     In other embodiments, the bracket arms  90  may be oriented generally vertically so that they engage and are supported by a floor or horizontal support surface within the interior of the cabinet assembly  12 . The mounting flanges  98  may be secured or fastened to the floor in such instances. 
     The panel  48  is positioned within the interior of the cabinet assembly  12  so that it may be readily accessed through the opening  37  when the pivotal panel door  38  is moved to the open position, as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 4 . The edges of the opening  37  may be beveled, rounded, re-shaped or otherwise modified to remove any sharp edges or corners that a user may come into contact with when placing or retrieving appliances positioned within the appliance holder assembly  46 . Additionally, the panel  48  may be recessed within the interior of the cabinet assembly  12  so that any appliances held within the appliance holder assembly  46  do not project through the opening  37  or prevent the pivotal panel door  38  from being fully closed. 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , power cord wrapping elements  106  may be mounted on the inner face of the panel door  38 . The wrapping elements  106  shown are in the form of hooks or knobs, each having a base  108  that mounts to the surface of the panel  38  by a suitable fastening mechanism, such as mounting screws, adhesive, etc. A barrel portion  110  extends upward from the base  108  and carries a projecting arm  112  that extends generally laterally away from the barrel portion  110  a distance. This may range from ½ inch to 5 inches, more particularly from 1 inch to 3 inches. The barrel portion may have a diameter of from ⅜ inch to 1½ inch, more particularly from about ½ inch to 1 inch. An example of suitable devices for use as wrapping elements  106  are those devices described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,513,816, which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
     As can be seen in  FIG. 5 , the individual wrapping elements  106  are arranged in cooperating pairs. In the embodiment shown, there are four cooperating pairs of wrapping elements  106  provided on the panel  38 . The wrapping elements  106  of each cooperating pair are spaced apart a distance to facilitate wrapping or winding of lengths of electrical power cords of appliances stored by the appliance holder system  10  around the wrapping elements  106 . The distances between each wrapping element pair may vary depending upon the number of wrapping elements positioned on the panel  38  and the dimensions of the panel. In most cases, the wrapping elements  106  of each cooperating pair are spaced several inches apart (e.g. 4 to 12 inches). When the projecting arms  112  of cooperating pairs of wrapping elements  106  are oriented toward one another, in some embodiments the distance between the ends of the arms may range from 1 inch to 5 inches. As can be seen in  FIG. 5 , the wrapping element pairs may be arranged in a staggered configuration. Additionally, any two of the wrapping elements  106  positioned on the panel  38  may constitute a cooperating wrapping element pair. In some instances, the closest spacing between any two wrapping elements may range from 1 inch to 4 inches. The wrapping elements  106  may also be mounted on a common base instead of each wrapping element  106  having its own separate base. The wrapping elements  106  in combination with the panel door  38  on which they are mounted constitute a power cord storage assembly of the appliance holder system  10 . 
     The projecting arm  112  of at least one of the wrapping element pairs  106  is movable or pivotal about the barrel portion  110 , as shown by the arrows  114 , between a storage position and a release position. When in the storage position, the projecting arms  112  of each pair will generally project away from the other wrapping element  106  of the cooperating pair. When in the release position, at least one of the projecting arms  112  of the wrapping element pairs will generally face the other cooperating wrapping element  106 , as designated at A in  FIG. 5 . In certain embodiments, both the wrapping elements  106  of each pair are pivotal so that in the storage position, the arms  112  of each pair face in opposite directions. In the release position, the arms  112  are pivoted so that the arms  112  generally face one another. This facilitates removal of any power cord that is wrapped about the wrapping elements  106  without having to unwrap the power cord from around the wrapping elements  106  to facilitate its removal. In certain applications a user may wrap a power cord around more than two of the wrapping elements  106 . If more than two wrapping elements  106  are used for wrapping a power cord, the wrapping elements  106  are moved to a release position that facilitates removal of the power cord from the wrapping elements  106  without unwrapping the cord. In certain embodiments, the wrapping element of one of the wrapping element pairs may have a non-movable radially extending lip, rim or member that facilitates retaining the power cord in place instead of the arm  112 . This may be used in conjunction with a cooperating wrapping element  106  having a projecting arm  112  that is pivotal or movable. 
     In certain embodiments, the pivotal movement of the arms  112  may be about a horizontal axis wherein the arms are pivoted upward or downward relative to the barrel  110  between the storage and release positions. In certain embodiments, the wrapping elements  106  may utilize non-pivotal movement of the arms  112  between the storage and release positions. For example, the arms  112  may slide linearly along the top of the barrel portion  110  to the opposite side of the barrel  110 . 
     To use the appliance holder system  10 , a user will access the interior of the cabinet assembly  12  by opening the panel door  38 , as shown in  FIG. 1 . The user may position various handheld electrical appliances (hair dryer, curling iron, etc.) within any of the receptacles  52 ,  54 ,  56  or  58  of the appliance holder panel  48 . Other items that do not constitute handheld electrical appliances may be stored in the receptacles as well. 
     The power cords of the appliances stored in the receptacles  52 ,  54 ,  56 ,  58  may be wrapped around the wrapping elements  106  of a wrapping element pair. For storage, the wrapping elements  106  should be positioned in the storage position with the arms  112  generally facing away from each other. With the power cords of the appliances held within the appliance holder assembly  46 , the panel door  38  may be closed. The releasable latch mechanism  42 ,  44  will retain the panel door  38  in the closed upright position. In this way, the appliances are conveniently stored out of the way and out of view and are readily accessed when needed. 
     To access the stored appliances, the panel door  38  is opened. The power cord for the desired appliance is removed from the wrapping elements  106 . This is done by moving one or more of the cooperating wrapping elements about which the power cord is wrapped to the release position, as described previously. In this way the power cord can be removed without unwrapping the power cord. The power cord may then be plugged into an electrical outlet that may be provided with or near the cabinet assembly  12 . 
     The appliances may be stored within the appliance holder assembly  46  during use when the appliances are plugged in and in a powered state. With respect to heated appliances, this provides a safe and secure means for storing the heated appliance. In the past, users of various electrical handheld appliances would typically rest the appliances on the countertop, where they could easily be knocked or pulled off resulting in damage to the appliance or even injury to those persons located nearby. Storing the appliances in the holder assembly  46  also frees up valuable countertop space. The vented receptacle inserts, such as the insert  60 , also prevent overheating of the appliance and allow the appliance to readily cool after its use. 
     When the appliances are no longer needed, the wrapping elements  106  are returned to the storage position and the power cord(s) of the appliance(s) are wrapped around the wrapping elements  106  for storage. The panel door  38  is returned to the closed position. The panel door  38  when closed will provide a finished appearance to the cabinet assembly  12  and may appear the same or similar to those false panels that are typically used with vanity cabinets. 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , another embodiment of an appliance holder system  120  is shown. The appliance holder system  120  is a self-contained appliance holder system that may be independent or free-standing and portable. The appliance holder system  120  may also be mounted or fixed to a wall or other support structure. The panel holder system  120  may be configured as a box or cabinet structure  122  that includes an upright rear wall  124  ( FIG. 7 ), opposite upright sidewalls  126 ,  128 , and top  130 , which may provide a generally flat horizontal upper surface. The cabinet  122  may also include a floor or base panel (not shown), however, in the embodiment shown no floor is provided, which may facilitate ventilation of the cabinet interior. The cabinet  122  may be sized and configured to rest on a countertop or other surface. The rear wall  124  and sidewalls  126 ,  128  may constitute legs or support members for supporting the top panel  130  on a support surface. The rear wall  124  may also be provided with holes or mounting structures to facilitate mounting of the system  120  to a wall or other structures. Non-limiting examples of suitable dimensions include cabinets  122  having a width of from about 10 to about 36 inches, a height of from about 6 to about 18 inches, and a depth of from about 3 to about 12 inches. Cabinets of other dimensions may also be employed. 
     The top  130  constitutes an appliance holder panel and is provided with openings and receptacle inserts  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 , which may be constructed similarly to those described previously with respect to the appliance holder system  10 , for receiving and storing various appliances or items. The receptacles may be provided in any number and be of the same or different sizes and configurations and may be positioned at various positions in the top panel  130 . In the embodiment shown, the receptacles  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138  may be generally aligned along the rearward edge of the panel  130 . The receptacle inserts may be the same or similar to the inserts  60  and  80 , and may be vented or non-vented and may be open, closed or capped at the lower ends, as has been described. As can be seen, a power cord slot or opening  142  may communicate or be provided adjacent to each of the receptacle openings. The slot  142  facilitates the passage of the power cords of electric appliances to the interior of the cabinet body  122 . The slot  142  may be sized to allow passage or prevent passage of any plug provided with the power cord. The perimeter or sides of the slot  142  may be rounded or curved, as well as the corners or edges of the slot  142 , to facilitate passage of the power cord through the slot  142 . Optional plastic grommets or coverings (not shown) can be placed in the cord openings or slots  142  of the top panel  130  to facilitate cord passage and protection of the slot  142 . Optional receptacle covers  89  ( FIG. 3 c   ) may also be provided with the system  120  and placed in the openings or over the receptacle inserts of the top panel  130  to close the receptacles and provide a flat surface on the appliance holder cabinet  122  for the user to place items that may rest on its surface, such as an electric toothbrush, etc. 
     A pivotal panel door  146  is provided at the forward end of the cabinet  122  that may be moved between open and closed positions for closing a forward opening of the cabinet  122  and accessing the interior of the cabinet  122 . The panel door  146  may be similar to the panel  38  of the system  10 , previously described, and include hinges  148  ( FIG. 7 ) for pivotally mounting the panel  146  to the cabinet  122 . As can be seen in  FIG. 7 , the panel  146  is mounted upon the hinges  148  generally at the corners of the lower forward edge of the cabinet  122  so that the panel pivots generally along a lower, forward horizontal axis of the cabinet  122 . The hinges may be positioned at other positions as well. Additionally, in some embodiments, the front of the cabinet  122  may be provided with one or more forwardly located doors that may pivot about either a generally horizontal or vertical axis when being opened and closed. Thus, instead of the panel door  146 , the cabinet may be provided with a door or doors like the doors  24 ,  26  of the system  10  that pivot about a generally vertical axis. 
     In the embodiment shown, the cabinet  122  is configured with a forward sloping face wherein the depth of the cabinet increases from the lower end to the upper end. This provides a smaller lower foot print of the cabinet  122  so that it consumes less counter space. In other embodiments, the forward face may slope rearwards or may be generally vertical. Other configurations for the cabinet  122  may also be used and the cabinet  122  is not be limited by any particular configuration unless so specified. 
     In the embodiment of  FIG. 7 , the hinges  148  may be 180 degree hinges or allow a greater degree of rotation than the 90 degree hinges discussed previously with respect to the hinges  40  of the system  10  so that the panel may hang down in a vertical orientation, as shown in  FIG. 7 , such as when the system  120  is mounted on a wall. A releasable latching mechanism (not shown), such as the magnetic latching mechanism previously described, may also be provided for securing the door  146  in the closed position. Other non-magnetic latching mechanisms may also be used. 
     The inner surface of the panel door  146  is provided with power cord wrapping elements  150 , which may be provided in cooperating pairs, as previously discussed. The wrapping elements  150  may be the same or similar to the wrapping elements  106  previously described. Corresponding wrapping element pairs  150  may be generally aligned linearly with each of the receptacles  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 , as shown in  FIG. 7 . At least one of the wrapping elements  150  of each pair or both is pivotal between storage and release positions, as shown by the arrows. The panel door  146  and wrapping elements  150  constitute a power cord storage assembly. 
     A roller  152  may be provided within the interior of the cabinet  122 . The roller  152  may extend between and be rotatable or non-rotatably mounted to the sidewalls  126 ,  128 . The roller  152  may be located at an area near the rear of the cabinet  122  interior. If the roller  152  is non-rotatable it may be provided with a smooth or low friction surface that facilitates sliding of the power cords over its surface. As the power cords of the appliances is pulled from either direction the roller  152  facilitates guiding of the power cord past the roller  152 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 6 , the panel door  146  may be provided with an optional handle  154  on its outer surface to facilitate opening and closing of the panel door  146 . The door  146  and cabinet  122  may also be provided with a lock assembly (not shown) for locking the door  146  to prevent unauthorized access to the cabinet interior. 
     Areas of the cabinet  122  may also be provided with various openings and vents. A vent or opening  156  may be provided on the sidewalls  126 ,  128  to facilitate venting of the cabinet interior. The vent  156  may be provided with a ventilation cover  158 , which may be provided with a plurality of small apertures or openings. The ventilation cover  158  may be formed from stainless steel, plastic or other materials and may provide a finished appearance. An optional opening(s)  160  may also be provided in the cabinet  122 , such as in the sidewalls  126 ,  128 . The opening  160  may be used to pass a power cord(s), such as a power cord to an optional power strip that may be used and incorporated with the system  120 , as will be described in more detail later on. Optional grommets or covers may be provided with any openings to cover them when they are not in use or to provide a more finished appearance. 
     In use, the system  120  is positioned on a support surface or mounted to a wall or other structure. Appliances may be stored and held in the receptacles  132 ,  134 ,  136 ,  138 . Initially, the user may pass the power cord of any appliance through the slots  142  provided with each receptacle. If necessary, the user may remove the receptacle insert to facilitate passage of the plug of the power cord into the interior of the cabinet  122 . With the power cord located within the slot  142 , the user may then reinsert the receptacle insert back into the opening in which it is used. The power cord may then be passed behind the roller  152 , if one is provided. With the panel door  146  open, the power cord of any appliances may be wrapped around the cooperating wrapping elements  150  that are moved to their storage positions for storage, as has been discussed previously with respect to the system  10 . The user may then close the door  146  until the stored appliances of the system  120  are needed. 
     When a stored appliance is needed, the user opens the panel door  146  to access the stored power cord(s). The user then turns at least one wrapping element to the release position so that the desired appliance power cord may be removed from the cooperating wrapping elements  150  without unwrapping the power cord from the elements  150 . The power cord is retained in the slot  142  during use, with the lower end of the power cord being passed out of the forward opening of the cabinet  122  and plugged into an available electrical outlet. The stored appliance may then be removed from its receptacle and the cord pulled to an acceptable length for use. An optional power strip (not shown) may be provide with the system  120 , such as within the interior of the cabinet  122 , to which the power cords may be plugged into. Alternatively, the entire power cord may be removed from the slot  142  and plugged into an appropriate outlet. 
     During use, the appliances may be temporarily stored in the receptacles of the system  120  when the appliances are plugged in and in a powered state. Again, this provides a safe and secure means for storing the heated appliances. The vented receptacle inserts also prevent overheating of the appliance and allow the appliance to readily cool after its use. 
     When the appliance is no longer needed, it may be unplugged and returned to the receptacle, with the power cord being wrapped around cooperating wrapping elements that are positioned in the storage position. The panel door  146  may then be closed to provide a neat and tidy appearance with no visible power cords. If the system  120  is free standing, it may be moved to a storage area until needed. 
       FIGS. 8-10  show another embodiment of an appliance holder system  170 . The system  170  includes an appliance holder assembly  172 , which may be in the form of a box-like structure. The appliance holder assembly  172  includes an upper panel  174 , which is provided with openings or receptacles that may be provided with receptacle inserts  176 , such as the inserts  60 ,  80  previously described, for receiving appliances and other items. 
     In the embodiment shown, the assembly  172  includes a rearward wall or panel  178 . As can be seen in  FIG. 9 , a power strip  180  may be provided with the assembly  172  and may be mounted to the rearward wall  178  or other areas of the assembly  172 . The power strip  180  includes sockets  182  for electrical and mechanical engagement with plugs of appliance power cords. The power strip  180  may have a sufficient number of sockets  182  to power appliances stored in each of the receptacles  176 . The number of sockets  182  may correspond to the number of receptacles  176  provided. The power strip  180  may include an on/off switch  183  and may be provided with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) unit. A power cord  184  of the power strip  180  is provided for coupling to an outlet located in the area in which the system  170  is used. Power cord slots or openings may be provided in the lower edge of the rear panel  178  to accommodate power cords of appliances stored in the system  170  that are passed below the assembly  172 , as will be described later on. 
     The assembly  172  may also include a pair of opposite upright sidewalls that join the panels  174 ,  178 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , the forward face of the system  170  is formed by an upright power cord storage panel  188 . As shown, the panel  188  extends from the lower edge of the assembly  172  and may extend for a distance above the upper panel  174 . In other embodiments it may be level with the upper panel  174 . The panel  188  provides a surface to which wrapping elements  190  are mounted. The wrapping elements  190 , which may be similar to those wrapping elements previously described, are arranged in cooperating pairs with at least one or both of the wrapping elements being movable between storage and release positions. The panel  188  and the wrapping elements  190  constitute a power cord storage assembly. 
     Slots or openings  192  may also be provided along the lower edge of the panel  188  to facilitate the passage of power cords of appliances stored in the system  170 . A tube or casing (not shown) may be mounted to and extend between each of the slots  186  and  192 . The tube or casing may be formed of metal, heat-resistant plastic or other material to protect the power cords from heat from the appliances. 
     The system  170  may be used as an independent or standalone system. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , the system  170  may also be used with a carriage assembly  194 . The carriage assembly  194  is in the form of a hydraulic lift that includes opposite sets of hydraulically actuated lift arms  196 ,  198  that are each pivotally mounted at one end to mounting base  200 . Other non-hydraulic lift mechanism may also be employed. The system  170  with the carriage assembly  194  may include a cabinet assembly  202 , such as a vanity cabinet that may include a sink  204 . The mounting base  200  for each of the sets of hydraulic lift arms  196 ,  198  may be mounted within the interior of the cabinet assembly  202  to opposite sidewalls of cabinet assembly  202 . The opposite ends of the lift arms  196 ,  198  are pivotally mounted to the appliance holder assembly  172 , such as at the rear panel  178  or the sidewalls. The carriage assembly  194  and the appliance holder system  170  may be mounted to clear the sink  204  and other plumbing structures that may be located within the interior of the cabinet  202 . The power cord  184  of the power strip  180  may have a sufficient length to allow movement of the system  170  between the extended and retracted positions. 
     The carriage assembly  194  provides pivotal movement of the appliance holder system  170  between a retracted position, indicated by the solid lines in  FIG. 10 , and an extended position, indicated by the dashed lines of  FIG. 10 . When the carriage assembly  194  is in the retracted position, the appliance holder system  170  locates fully within the interior of the cabinet  202  at a lowered position. When the carriage assembly is moved to the extended position, the appliance holder system  170  is moved upwards and outwards to a position wherein all or at least a portion of the appliance holder system is located exterior to the cabinet assembly  202 . The carriage assembly  194  may lock or latch in the retracted position and be actuated to move to the extended position by exerting sufficient force to overcome the locking forces. Once in the extended position, the carriage assembly  194  is pushed back to the retracted position. Electrical powered actuation systems may also be employed. An example of a suitable commercially available hydraulic carriage assembly that may be used for the carriage assembly  194  includes those marketed as SERV™, STRATO™ and SENSO™ lift systems, available from Hafele America Co., located in Archdale, N.C. The instruction manuals for these lift systems identified by Item Nos. 372.64 Series, 372.67 Series and 372.68 Series are each incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. 
     In use, the appliance holder system  170  is used in a similar manner to those systems previously described. Initially, the appliance holder system  170  mounted to the carriage assembly  194  may be in the extended position and at a position exterior to the cabinet  202 , as shown by the dashed lines of  FIG. 10 . Appliances may be positioned within the receptacles  176 . The power cords of each of the appliances may be passed below the assembly  172 , with the cords passing through the slots  186 ,  192  provided, and wrapped around the cooperating wrapping elements  190 , which are positioned in the storage position. The carriage assembly  194  may then be moved to the retracted position so that the system  170  locates within the interior of the cabinet  202 , as shown in  FIG. 10 . Any doors (not shown) for the forward opening of the cabinet assembly  202  may be closed so that the appliance holder system is out of the way and out of view. 
     When desired, any door or doors of the cabinet  202  may be opened and the system  170  may accessed and moved to the extended position for use. This may be accomplished by actuating or releasing the hydraulic carriage assembly  194 , such as by slightly pulling on the system  170  to overcome any locking or latching mechanism or forces, so that the system  170  is moved to the extended position. The power cords of desired appliances may be released from the power cord storage assembly by moving at least one or both of the cooperating wrapping elements  190 . The plug of the power cord of any appliance may be conveniently plugged into one of the sockets  182  of the power strip  180 . 
     During use, the appliances may be stored in the receptacles of the system  170  when the appliances are plugged in and in a powered state. Again, this provides a safe and secure means for storing the heated appliance. The vented receptacle inserts also further prevent overheating of the appliance and allow the appliance to readily cool after its use. 
     When the appliance is no longer needed, it may be unplugged and returned to the receptacle for storage, with the power cord being wrapped around cooperating wrapping elements that are positioned in the storage position. Alternatively, the appliance may remain plugged into the power strip  180 . The system  170  may then be moved to the retracted position, as described previously. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 11 and 12 , another embodiment of an appliance holder system  210  is shown. The system  210  includes an appliance holder assembly  212 , which may be in the form of a box-like structure or cabinet. The appliance holder assembly  212  includes an upper panel  214 , which is provided with openings or receptacles that may be provided with receptacle inserts  216 , such as the inserts  60 ,  80  previously described, for receiving appliances and other items. As can be seen, all or a portion of the upper panel  214  is sloped downward from the rearward end to facilitate accessing of appliances stored in the receptacles  216 . The upper panel  214  may also be generally horizontal. As shown in  FIG. 12 , a rearward horizontal portion  213  of the upper panel  214  may constitute a shelf or area for placing and resting items. 
     A forward wall or panel  218  of the system  210  constitutes an upright power cord storage panel. As shown, the panel  218  extends from the lower edge of the assembly  212  to the lower edge of the upper panel  214 . The panel  218  provides a surface to which wrapping elements  220  are provided. The wrapping elements  220  are similar to those previously described and are arranged in cooperating pairs with at least one or both of the wrapping elements being movable between storage and release positions, which may be similar to those wrapping elements previously described. The panel  218  and the wrapping elements  220  constitute a power cord storage assembly. In a variation, the upper panel  214  and power cord storage panel  218  may be a single downward sloping panel that extends to the lower forward edge of the assembly  212 . The power cord storage panel  218  would be provided by a receptacle-free area of the panel to which the wrapping elements  220  may be mounted. 
     A power strip  222 , which may be similar to the power cord strip  180  previously described, may be provided with the assembly  212 . In the embodiment shown, the power strip  222  is located at the lower forward end of the assembly  212  and is mounted to the panel  218  on the rearward side. The power strip  222  may be mounted to other areas, as well. Slots  223 , similar to the slots  186 ,  192 , may be formed on the lower edge of the panel  218  to facilitate passage of the power cords to the power strip  222 . 
     The system  210  may be stationary, free-standing or used with a carriage assembly  224 . The carriage assembly  224  includes rails, slides or tracks  226 ,  228  for mounting to sidewalls  230  or other areas of the appliance holder assembly  212  and to a cabinet assembly  232 . The cabinet assembly  232  may be similar to those cabinet assemblies previously described and may be free-standing or be that incorporated into a room of a building or dwelling. The cabinet assembly  232  may also include doors  234  for selectively closing and opening a forward opening of the cabinet  232 . 
     The carriage assembly  224  and the rails, slides or tracks  226 ,  228  and other components may be the same or similar to those carriage assemblies commonly used for the drawing and closing drawers in cabinets, desks and similar structures. Those rollers, wheels, etc. and other components that are typically used for such carriage assemblies would also be employed with the carriage assembly  224 . 
     The carriage assembly  224  allows the system  210  to be moved linearly between extended and retracted positions relative to the cabinet  232 . In the retracted position, the system  210  may be located within the interior of the cabinet  232  so that the doors  234  may be closed and the system may be out of the way and hidden from view. In the extended position, all or of a portion of the system  210  is located exterior to the cabinet  232 . 
     In certain embodiments of the appliance holder system employing a movable carriage assembly, the cord wrapping elements may be fixed so that they are not movable between storage and release positions. 
     In use, appliances may be positioned in the receptacles  216  and the power cords of the appliances may be wrapped around the wrapping elements  220  that are in their storage positions, as described with respect to the other embodiments. The system  210  is then moved to the retracted position through the forward opening of the cabinet  232  for storage. 
     When desired, the user may access the retracted system  210  and move it to the extended position through the forward opening of the cabinet  232 . The power cord of the desired appliance may be released by moving at least one or all of any cooperating wrapping elements  220  on which it is wrapped so that the power cord may be removed from the wrapping elements without unwrapping it. The plug of the appliance power cord may be plugged into the power strip  222 . In certain instances, the power cord may be remained plugged into the power cord during storage. The back and lower end of the assembly  212  may be open to allow access to the interior of the assembly  212  and the power strip  222 . One or both of the sidewalls  230  may also be eliminated to access the area below and behind the panels  214 ,  218  and the power strip  222 . 
     During use, the appliances may be temporarily stored in the receptacles of the system  210  when the appliances are plugged in and in a powered state. Again, this provides a safe and secure means for storing the heated appliance. The vented receptacle inserts also prevent overheating of the appliance and allow the appliance to readily cool after its use. 
     When the appliance is no longer needed, it may be unplugged and returned to the receptacle  216 , with the power cord being wrapped around cooperating wrapping elements  220  that are positioned in the storage position. Alternatively, the appliance may remain plugged into the power strip  222 . The system  210  may then be moved to the retracted position, as described previously. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , a power strip  240  is shown for use with any of the appliance holder systems that has been described herein, as well as for other purposes. The power strip  240  may be similar to those previously described, however, the power strip  240  includes an additional kill switch assembly  242  that overrides and deactivates the power strip  240  separately from the on/off switch  244  that are provided on most power strips when the kill switch  242  is actuated. 
     The power strip  240  includes a housing  246  for housing the various components of the power strip  240 . A plurality of sockets  248  are provided for electrical and mechanical engagement with a plug of a power cord. The power strip  240  also includes its own power cord  250  and plug  252  for plugging into an electrical outlet, such as those 120 V electrical outlets that are commonly used in the United States. Other configurations for the power strip  240  and plug  252  may also be used, such as those that are common in areas outside the United States. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , a schematic of the power strip  240  is shown. Each socket  248  of the power strip  240  may include a neutral slot  254  and a “hot” slot  256 , with normal current flow from the cord  250  plugged into an electrical outlet flowing through the power strip circuitry designated generally at  258  between these two slots  254 ,  256 . The socket  248  also includes a ground slot or hole  260 , such as is well known. The power strip  240  may be configured as a surge protector and include varistors  262 ,  264 ,  266 , such as MOV varistors, to protect the power strip  240  and appliances plugged into it from excessive voltage or current surges. A GFCI unit  268  may also provided with the power strip  240  and wired into the power strip circuitry  258 , which may include a reset button  270  commonly used with such GFCI units. 
     The kill switch assembly  242  may include a housing  272  for housing components of the kill switch assembly  242 . The kill switch assembly  242  includes an electrical switch  274  having an actuatable engagement arm, member or other mechanism  276  that actuates the switch  274 . The switch  274  is electrically coupled to a length of flexible electrical wiring  278  to the power strip circuitry  258  so that the switch assembly  242  may be positioned at a desired position, which may be at a distance from the power strip housing  246 . In the embodiment shown, the wiring  278  is wired to the GFCI unit  268  and on/off switch  244 . The wiring  278  may wired to other areas of circuitry  258  of the power strip  240  to facilitate deactivating the power strip. 
     In use, the power strip  240  may be mounted to a portion of any of the appliance holder systems previously described. As shown in  FIG. 13 , the power strip  240  is mounted to the lower surface of the appliance panel  48  of the appliance holder system  10 , described previously. The kill switch assembly  242  may be mounted to an area of the appliance holder system or that the appliance holder system is incorporated with. The kill switch assembly  242  may be mounted and/or positioned in an area so that the actuating mechanism  276  engages a movable portion of any of the appliance holder systems described herein. The movable portion of the appliance holder may include a cooperating structure, such as an arm, lever, projection, surface, etc., that facilitates engagement with the actuating mechanism  276 . 
     The movable portion may be that which is moved to a closed or retracted position when the appliance holder system is being stored. Thus, as a non-limiting example with respect to the appliance holder system  10  of  FIGS. 1-4 , the kill switch assembly  242  may be mounted to the cabinet assembly  12  so that when the panel door  38  is closed, a portion of the panel door  38  will engage the kill switch actuating mechanism  276  to activate the kill switch  242  and deactivate or cut power to the power strip  240 . The kill switch assembly  242  may alternatively be mounted a movable component of the appliance holder systems as well, such that the actuating mechanism  276  is engaged by a stationary portion of the system  10 . Thus, the kill switch  242  may be mounted to the panel door  38  with the actuating mechanism  276  engaging a portion of the cabinet assembly  12  when the door  38  is closed. For the system  120  of  FIGS. 6-7 , the kill switch assembly  242  may be mounted to the door  146  or to the cabinet  122  and may be actuated upon closing of the panel door  146 . For the system  170  of  FIGS. 8-10 , the kill switch assembly  242  may be positioned on any portion of the appliance holder system  170  or carriage assembly  194  or the cabinet  202  and may be actuated upon engagement and movement of the appliance holder system to the retracted position or when any doors of the cabinet assembly  202  are closed. For the appliance holder system  210  of  FIGS. 11-12 , the kill switch assembly  242  may be provided on the assembly  212  or cabinet  232  and be actuated to depower the power strip  240  when the assembly  212  is moved to the retracted position within the cabinet  232  or when the cabinet doors  234  are closed. 
     Any of the appliance holder systems described or claimed herein may also be provided as a kit for construction, assembly, installation and use of the systems. This may include any and all of the components described herein for any of the systems. The components of the kit may be provided in a completely unassembled configuration or as a partially assembled configuration. A set of printed, audio and/or video instructions may be provided with the kit detailing the method of construction, assembly, installation and use may be included with the kit, as well as any product packaging for containing the kit as a unit or units. Templates, such as templates to facilitate cutting, drilling, sizing, etc. of the components of the appliance holder system, may also be provided with the kit. The kit may also include installation tools that may be necessary for assembling the system. The kit may facilitate the construction of a free standing or self-contained appliance holder system or one that is incorporated into previously existing cabinetry or other structures. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15 , a hinge  300  is shown that may be used with the various appliance holder systems, such as the system  10 , and may be used for the hinges  40  described for the system  10  as well as hinges for other systems. The hinge  300  may be a 90 degree hinge, although it may be movable through other angles as well. The hinge  300  may be used in appliance holders and cabinet assemblies where the walls, panels and framing members of the structures have a limited thickness. In particular, the hinge  300  may be used with structural members having a thickness of from 1 or ¾ inch to about ½ inch or less. The hinge  300  provides at least two spaced apart mounting points that interface and couple to a side surface of the structural members having a thickness of from 1 inch or ¾ inch to about ½ inch or less. 
     The hinge  300  and its components may be constructed of metal and is shown as a right handed hinge in  FIG. 15  and mounted to the frame member  30   b  and panel  38  of the appliance holder system  10 , previously described. A hinge configured as a mirror image of the hinge  300  may be used for the opposite side of the panel  38  as a left hand hinge. The hinge  300  includes a panel mounting flange  302  having a planar base  304  that abuts against the rearward surface of the panel  38  adjacent to the lower and right side edges. A pair of spaced apart screws  306  (e.g. wood screws) or other fasteners may be used for mounting the hinge  300  to the panel  38 . Holes in the mounting flange base  304  may be counter sunk for use with wood screws to provide a flush appearance. The mounting flange  302  includes a planar arm flange  308  that extends away from the base  304  in a plane generally parallel to the direction of rotation of the hinge  300 . A planar mounting arm  310  is pivotally mounted at its forward end by pivotal coupling  312  (e.g tubular rivet, pin, etc.) or other fastener suitable for pivotal movement to a forward end of the arm flange  308 . The opposite end of the mounting arm  310  is pivotally coupled to the forward end of a planar lower bracket arm  314  through a pivotal coupling  316 . 
     A planar connecting arm  318  is pivotally coupled at its forward end to the rearward end of the arm flange  308 . As can be seen, the bracket arm  314  is pivotally coupled at an intermediate position to an intermediate portion of the connecting arm  318  at pivotal coupling  320 . The rearward end of the bracket arm  314  extends to a support bracket  322 . 
     The support bracket  322  includes a planar upright support bracket flange  324  that is configured for abutting directly against a flat structural support member, such as the portion of the frame member  30   b  that lies within the open area  37 . The bracket flange  324  is configured for use with structural members having narrow thicknesses of from about 1 or about ¾ inch to about ½ inch or less. The bracket flange  324  has an upright forward edge  326  that is configured to lie behind or flush with the forward end of the upright or vertical frame member  30   b  or other upright structural member or wall to which it is mounted. An elongated mounting slot  328  extends through the thickness of the bracket flange  324  and extends rearward from just behind the forward edge  326 . The slot  328  may have a length of about ¾ inch or less or that generally corresponds to the thickness of the structural member for which it is to be used and should overlay the inner edge of the member  30   b  and in some embodiments may extend rearward no further than 1 inch from the forward edge  326 . 
     The support bracket  322  also includes a planar floor flange  330  that is perpendicular to and extends inward from the bracket flange  324 . The forward edge of the floor flange  330  may lie in a plane parallel to the forward edge of the bracket flange  324 . The floor flange  330  also includes an elongated slot  332  that is positioned and configured similarly to the slot  328  so that it overlays the horizontal frame member  32 . The position and length of the slots  328 ,  332  allow the support bracket  322  to be mounted to thin structural members (≦¾ or ≦1 inch) that are commonly used in modern cabinet assemblies. The slots  328 ,  332  may also be counter sunk or provided with a beveled edge for cooperating engagement with the tapered head of a wood screw, such as the screws  334 ,  336 . An additional hole or opening  338  may be provided at a lower end of the bracket flange  324  on a rearward projecting portion  339  of the bracket flange  324 . The hole  338  may be a countersunk hole and may be located 1 inch or more from the forward edge  326  and may be used for optionally fastening to structural members that are greater than 1 inch in thickness. 
     The rearward end of the lower bracket arm  314  is pivotally coupled through pivotal coupling  340  to the bracket flange  324  just above the floor flange  330 . The connecting arm  318  is connected at its rearward end to the forward end of a planar upper bracket arm  342 . The rearward end of bracket arm  324  is pivotally coupled to the extended portion  339  of the bracket flange  324  through pivotal coupling  344 . The rearward end of the bracket arm  342  is also provided with a stop member  346  that engages the bracket flange  324  to limit movement of the hinge  300 , such as when the hinge is opened approximately 90 degrees. The forward end of the upper bracket arm  342  is pivotally coupled to the rearward end of the connecting arm  318  through pivotal coupling  348 . The various planar hinge arms all lie in planes perpendicular to the axes of hinge rotation of the pivotal couplings. Because the various hinge arms of the hinge  300  interrelate and are coupled in the manner described, limiting pivotal movement of the upper bracket arm  342  also limits movement of all the other hinge arms as well and thus prevents further movement or rotation of the hinge  300 , such as at a 90 degree position as shown. The position of the stop member  346  could be moved or the stop member eliminated to allow for different degrees of hinge rotation for the hinge  300  as well. 
     Referring to  FIG. 20 , another embodiment of a receptacle insert  350  is shown. The insert  350  may be similar to those previously described. The insert  350  includes a tubular insert body  352  and upper circumferential retaining member or flange  354 . The insert body  352  and flange  354  may be formed from a single unitary piece of metal material, such as steel, aluminum, etc., or other malleable material. The material may have a thickness ranging from 0.5 mm to about 5 mm, more particularly from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. In forming the insert body  352  and flange  354 , the insert body  352  and material forming the flange  354  may be initially provided as a seamless, cylindrical unitary tube that is cut to the desired size. The upper circumferential flange  354  that flares radially outward from the upper end of the insert body  352  is provided by various shaping or forming means, such as stamping, roll forming, bulge forming, etc. 
     After forming the flange  354 , vents or openings  356 ,  358  are provided in the wall of the insert body  352  to facilitate venting of the hollow interior  360 . Alternatively, the openings  356 ,  358  may be formed prior to forming the flange  354 . The openings  356 ,  358  may be formed by die punching or other methods. The openings  356 ,  358  extend from the exterior of the insert body  352  and communicate with the hollow interior  360  of the insert body  352 . As shown, the openings  356 ,  358  are of different sizes and are provided along generally the entire length and around generally the entire circumference of the insert body  352 . In some embodiments, the openings  356 ,  358  may be provided on only a portion of the insert body  352 , which may be a majority (i.e. greater than 50%) of the surface of the insert body  352 . In certain instances the openings  356 ,  358  may be provided on the insert body along at least 50% to 90% of the length the insert body  352 . As is shown, the openings  356 ,  358  are of different sizes, with the openings  358  being smaller than the openings  356 . In other embodiments, the openings may be of the same or similar sizes. The openings  356 ,  358  may have a diameter or width of ranging from 1 mm to 20 mm or more, more particularly from about 1.5 or 2 mm to about 10 mm, and still more particularly from about 4 mm to about 10 mm. The openings may be in a staggered, aligned or non-aligned configuration. Although the openings  356 ,  358  are shown with a circular configuration, the may have other shapes or configurations (e.g. oval, polygonal, etc.) as well, that may be the same or different from one another. 
     The openings  356 ,  358  formed in the sidewall of the insert body  352  of  FIG. 16 , as well as those embodiments previously described, may cover or take up from about 10% to about 90% of the sidewall area of the insert body  352  as defined by the extent of the insert body sidewall  352  below the flange  354 . In other embodiments the openings formed in the sidewall of the insert body may cover from about 20% to 80% of the sidewall area, and in others from about 30% or 40% to about 70% of the sidewall area. In still others, the openings cover greater than 50% of the sidewall area. 
     After the openings are formed in the sidewall of the insert body  352 , the surfaces of the insert  350  may be smoothed, polished and/or coated utilizing suitable means known in the art. 
     One or more dimples or projections or sidewall deformations  362  may be provided on the lower end of the insert body  352 . The dimple or projection  362  projects outwardly from the exterior of the insert body sidewall  352  and facilitates coupling of a removable end cap  364  that closes the lower end opening of the insert body  352 . The end cap  364  may be configured similarly to the end cap  72  previously described. The end cap  364  has a base  366  and a collar  368  and prevents passage of items through the lower end of the insert body  352 . The dimples or projections  362  provide a friction fit to retain the cap  364  on the lower end of the insert body  352 . Alternatively, inwardly projecting dimples, projections or sidewall deformations, such as at  370 , may be provided in the collar  368 , with the lower end of the insert body  352  being free of any projections or dimples. In other embodiments, the insert body  352  and collar  368  of the end cap  364  may be provided with cooperating helical threads so that the end cap may be screwed on and off, as desired. In still other embodiments, the insert body  352  and/or collar  368  may be provided with cooperating projections, such as the projections  362  or  370 , that is received within a cooperating angular slot, such as the angular slot  372 , to facilitate securing of the end cap  364  to the insert body  352 . 
     The end cap  364  may be provided with vents or openings as well, as has been previously described. 
     The end cap  364  is removable and may be interchangeable with other insert bodies of other receptacle inserts similarly configured for the appliance holder assemblies and systems described herein. 
     Referring to  FIG. 17A , power cord coupling mechanisms  374  are shown for facilitating releasable coupling of a free end and/or other portion of a flexible electrical power cord for any of the power cord management systems previously described. The coupling mechanisms  374  are in the form of flexible cord or wire clips having a deformable insert body  376  that is inserted into an aperture or hole  378  of a panel or cabinetry of a cord management or appliance holder system with which it is used. The insert body  376  is frictionally held within the aperture  378 . Other coupling mechanisms can be used for coupling the coupling mechanism  374  to the panel or cabinetry on which it is used, such as a base (not shown) that takes the place of the insert body  376  and that is adhesively or non-adhesively coupled to a component of the system on which it is used. The clip  374  has a flexible clip portion(s)  380  that define an eyelet  382  that is/are sized and configured to receive a portion of a flexible electrical power cord. Flared arm(s)  384  of the clip  374  facilitates spreading, lifting or deforming of the clip portion  380  to facilitate insertion or removal of a power cord to or from the eyelet  382 . The clip portions  380  may also be twisted or entwined to a locked configuration to lock the length of the flexible power cord in place. Other configurations of the clips may also be used. 
       FIG. 17B  shows an alternate version of the clip  374  where the insert body of the clip  374  is replaced with an adhesive and secured to the surface of the panel or cabinetry. 
       FIG. 18  shows still another coupling mechanism  390  that is representative of various power cord coupling mechanisms for facilitating releasable coupling of a free end and/or other portion of a flexible electrical power cord to any of the power cord management or appliance holder systems previously described. The coupling mechanism  390  is releasably or non-releasably coupled to the panel, cabinetry or other components of the power cord management or appliance holder systems described herein. The coupling mechanism  390  may work with or without a cooperating component or coupling mechanism  392  that may be provided on power cord, such as the power cord  394 . If used, the coupling mechanism  392  may be provided on the length of the power cord  394  or on the plug portion  396 . The coupling mechanism(s)  392  may be provided in a kit that is provided with the cord management or appliance holder assembly or system so that it can be coupled to preexisting power cords of a user&#39;s appliances. The coupling mechanism  390  with or without the coupling mechanism  392  may include a clamp, a clip, a tie, a magnet, a strap, snaps, and a hook and loop fastener. Where cooperating mechanisms  390 ,  392  are used, for example, one may be hook material and the other may be loop material of a hook and loop fastener; cooperating snaps, or one may be a magnet and the other may be a ferrous or magnetic material that is attracted to the other, etc. Various other known coupling mechanisms may also be used for the coupling mechanisms  390 ,  392 . The coupling mechanism  390  may also include the clip  374  of  FIG. 17A or 17B  or a similar clip. 
     The coupling mechanism  390  may be used in a variety of ways. Referring to  FIG. 19 , one or more coupling mechanisms  390  are provided on a power cord storage assembly  400  having pairs of wrapping elements  402 , which may be similar to those previously described. In certain embodiments, two or more wrapping elements  402  may be provided on a single base  403 , which is coupled to the panel or cabinetry. One or more coupling mechanisms are provided or associated with pairs of spaced apart power cord wrapping elements, such as those previously described. This may include positioning the coupling mechanism  390  between or adjacent to pairs of the wrapping elements  402 . This may include the coupling mechanism being located at or within 1 inch or less to 5 inches or more from one or more of the wrapping elements. As shown in  FIG. 19 , the coupling mechanism facilitates holding of the free end or portion of a power cord  404  wrapped around wrapping elements  402 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 20 , another configuration is shown employing the use of the coupling mechanisms  390  with an appliance holder assembly  410 , such as those previously described. Coupling mechanisms  390  are provided on the appliance holder panel or member  412  of the assembly  410 , which has one or more receptacles  414  of the same or different configurations, and which may be provided with receptacle inserts  416  and cord slots  418 , which may be the same or similar to those previously described. The coupling mechanism may be located at or within 1 inch or less to 5 inches or more from one or more of the receptacle insert with which it is associated. 
     One or more coupling mechanisms  390  may be associated with each receptacle  416 . One or more coupling mechanisms  390  may be provided on the panel or member  412  at a position adjacent or near one of the receptacles  412  to facilitate coupling of a power cord, such as the power cord  420  that extends through slot  418 . As shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 20 , the power cord  420  is a detachable power cord that may be detached from the appliance that is used with. The coupling mechanism  390  thus allows the free end of the power cord  420  to be retained in place upon the panel or member  412  when the appliance is detached and is no longer positioned within the receptacle. 
     While the invention has been shown in only some of its forms, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that it is not so limited, but is susceptible to various changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is appropriate that the appended claims be construed broadly and in a manner consistent with the scope of the invention.