Electrical connection safety apparatus and method
US6049143A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 22, 1999 |
| Grant date | Apr 11, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 22, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S439/955
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An electrical connection safety apparatus which eliminates the risk of fire or electric shock associated with current overload faults in electrical systems. The apparatus senses or detects the electrical current rating of electrical appliances or electrical cords or connectors which are plugged into electrical outlets, and disconnects power to the appliance or outlet and connector whenever the current rating is exceeded. Current rating is indicated by a preset current threshold for the appliance or by a detectable feature associated with an electrical connector. Circuitry monitors the load current delivered to the appliance or receptacle and connector and compares the load current to detected current rating. When a current overload occurs, power to the appliance or receptacle and connector is disconnected.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.