Modular furniture power distribution system and electrical connector

Abstract

A prewired electrical distribution member of the type utilized along movable partitions or similar modular furniture near the bottom edges thereof for distributing electrical energy and having like connectors at opposite ends thereof for connection to like member of an adjacent member is disclosed. Each member includes an elongated rigid central portion having a connector for receiving at least one electrical outlet centrally located therealong and flexible end portions permanently attached thereto. The flexible end portions enclose a plurality of conductors arranged in generally single file vertical alignment and have the connectors permanently fixed to their respective free ends. The connectors have both end and side terminal openings and are uniquely adapted to engage one another in any of an end to end, side to side, or end to side manner for effecting connections at corners. The connectors each have an electrically insulating housing partially open at one end and partially open along one side which is adapted to mate with the corresponding partially open portion of the housing of the other connector. A plurality of terminals are disposed within the housing with each terminal having a pair of contact blades with a gap therebetween and an adjacent single contact blade facing the partially open end as well as a pair of contact blades with a gap therebetween and an adjacent single contact blade facing the partially open side for engaging corresponding contact blades of a like terminal of the other connector when the connectors are interengaged.