The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
May. 19, 2009
Filed:
Mar. 13, 2007
Charles A. Lemaire, Apple Valley, MN (US);
Marian D. Maxwell, Renton, WA (US);
Raymond Q. Draggie, Renton, WA (US);
Scott D. Maxwell, Renton, MN (US);
Charles A. Lemaire, Apple Valley, MN (US);
Marian D. Maxwell, Renton, WA (US);
Raymond Q. Draggie, Renton, WA (US);
Scott D. Maxwell, Renton, MN (US);
Mechanical Answers LLC, Renton, WA (US);
Abstract
In some embodiments, the present invention provides an independently tightening collet surrounding each socket for each of a plurality of corresponding high-electrical-power prongs, wherein the collet is loosened for normal (low-insertion-force) insertion and withdrawal of the plug from the outlet. Once the plug is inserted, the collet is tightened, providing a high-contact force to lower the contact resistance and to help keep the plug from coming unplugged. In some embodiments, the plug is not 'locked', in that a tension force pulling on the plug will overcome the contact force at a point before the plug or outlet is damaged, and the plug is allowed to come unplugged. In some embodiments, engaging the collet will also provide a wiping or sliding motion between the prong and socket for each connection, thus wiping at least some dirt or corrosion away and providing a lower-resistance better electrical contact.