PROTECTIVE APPARATUS FOR OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles and more particularly to protective apparatus for protecting the outlets from a wide range of weather conditions. In particular, electrical outlets provided on power pedestals are considered.

BACKGROUND

Conventional outdoor receptacles are typically protected by flip covers that are positioned over individual receptacles or outlets, or by outlet covers with hinged doors that lift to provide access to the outlets. Such flip covers may include gaskets for weather sealing, typically either on the covers themselves, or around the perimeter of the base frame against which the flip cover will rest.

While generally functional during fair weather, prior art protective devices for outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles suffer from a number of limitations. For example, in temperatures at or below freezing, the flip covers are often sealed by ice against the frame such that the flip covers cannot be lifted to access the outlet. Even if the flip covers can be lifted to plug into an outlet, ice and snow may accumulate while the flip cover is lifted, exposing a significant area of the electrical outlet to accumulation of ice and snow. This may prevent the flip cover from closing completely, as the ice and snow may prevent clean contact between the flip cover and the base frame. Furthermore, the flip cover itself may be frozen in the open position, making it difficult or impossible to close.

In addition, over time, the weather sealing gasket on or around the flip cover may deteriorate, and no longer keep out moisture from the electrical outlet, possibly allowing moisture to seep into the electrical outlet and potentially causing an electrical safety problem. While use of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interruptor) receptacles, may help avoid serious electrical shocks, the electrical outlet may nevertheless become damaged from the moisture, and have to be replaced at significant cost.

Power pedestals are often used to provide outlets or receptacles for accessing electricity outdoors, and are commonly used in applications such as outdoor parking lots or drive ways to recharge electric vehicles or to power a block heater, for example. In such outdoor applications, power pedestals are often positioned in locations in which vehicles may come into accidental contact with the power pedestals. Even a minor collision may result in major damage to power pedestals, resulting in sufficient damage requiring replacement of the housing, or the entire unit.

As well, power pedestals are often subjected to adverse weather, and moisture trapped within or around the pedestals may damage them and cause them to fail or become unsightly prematurely.

Therefore, what is needed are improved designs for the protection of outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles and power pedestals that addressing at least some of the above limitations in the prior art.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure relates to a protective apparatus for outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles and power pedestals subjected to a wide range of weather conditions including variations in temperature, humidity, and precipitation, and various improvements thereto. In particular, electrical outlets provided on power pedestals are considered.

In an embodiment, the protective apparatus is an angled hood which has at least one angled top surface, at least two side panels, and an angled bottom surface having an aperture suitably sized and shaped to receive a power cord from an electrical device.

In a preferred embodiment, the top surface of the hood is angled and extends to a suitable horizontal distance from the wall such that the hood substantially covers and protects the electrical outlet being covered. It will be appreciated, however, that the angle of the top surface of the hood, and the distance of the hood from the wall may be varied between any suitable range.

In another embodiment, the top surface of the hood may extend to a suitable horizontal distance such the electrical outlet being covered is suitably protected from moisture, including rain and snow that may be directed towards the outlet at an angle. Thus, the electrical outlet is suitably protected even if access to the electrical outlet always remains open through the aperture in the angled bottom surface.

By adjusting the angle of the top surface of the hood, how far the hood extends horizontally, and the size of the aperture in the angled bottom surface, the hood may be adjusted for virtually any type and size of electrical outlet requiring protection.

In another aspect, the protective hood may be installed over electrical outlets or receptacles provided on a power pedestal. The power pedestal may be installed in outdoor areas subject to a wide range of weather conditions including moisture in the form of rain or snow, for example.

In an embodiment, the power pedestals may comprise mounting plate including a box to mount various types of outlets or receptacles therein. The mounting plate may be configured to receive various types of standard electrical outlets, and be mounted in a vertical or horizontal orientation depending on the mounting configuration. A protective hood may be mounted over each outlet or receptacle using a number of different mounting means including use of fasteners, adhesives, or mechanical engagement. Preferably, the protective hoods are removable such that the outlet may be serviced or the protective hoods may be replaced easily if damaged.

In an embodiment, when a plurality of protective hoods are mounted vertically, each of the protective hoods may optionally be installed in an overlapping configuration such that the top edge of a protective hood is covered bottom edge of a protective hood installed above. The uppermost protective hood may have its top edge covered by a pedestal lid, which at least partially over hangs the top of the pedestal on each side. Advantageously, moisture is directed away from all of the outlets, and each pedestal above may also protect the pedestal below.

In another embodiment, each protective hood is configured such that the aperture provided on the angled bottom surface includes a flange or lip extending outwardly to direct moisture around the aperture rather than dripping from its edge. Correspondingly, a flange or lip extending inwardly along the bottom edge of the aperture may also help direct moisture away from the edges of the aperture.

In another embodiment, each pedestal may be mounted to a pedestal base that is configured to provide sufficient strength to support the pedestal structure including all mounted hardware, but which pedestal base also includes one or more built in stress relief features such that the pedestal will break away from the base if the pedestal is accidentally struck, for example by a motor vehicle or trailer that is backing up in a drive way, parking lot, or an RV camp site at which the power pedestal is installed. In this embodiment, the protective hoods may also be configured to be deformable, such that the protective hoods can at least partially absorb the impact of the motor vehicle or trailer, and be readily replaced with another if damaged.

In another embodiment, the aperture in the protective hood is suitably large to provide sufficient ventilation for the one or more outlets covered by the protective hood. This allows the pedestal to dry after heavy precipitation, without trapping moisture in any part of the protective hood.

In another embodiment, a slight gap is provided between the power pedestal and an interchangeable pedestal base to improve ventilation to the cabinet, and prevents the elongate body 110 from collecting moisture at its base around the bottom of the power pedestal.

In another embodiment, the pedestal itself may include a ventilation grill which prevents moisture from entering the pedestal but at the same time allows air to circulate within the pedestal cabinet. The ventilation grill may be provided on two or more sides of the pedestal in order to promote airflow through the pedestal cabinet in order control moisture.

In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the various improvements in more detail, it is to be understood that the present system and method is not limited in its application to the details of construction and to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present system and method is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of an angled hood in accordance with an illustrative embodiment.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of an angled hood and extended base in accordance with another illustrative embodiment.

FIGS. 3A and 3B show schematic plan views of an angled hood in accordance with an embodiment.

FIG. 3C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be folded into the angled hood of FIGS. 3A and 3B.

FIGS. 4A and 4B show schematic plan views of an angled hood in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 4C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be folded into the angled hood of FIGS. 4A and 4B.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show schematic plan views of an angled hood in accordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 6 to 10 show different sizes and configurations of cutout back plates in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 11A to 11C show illustrative horizontal, vertical and combined horizontal and vertical device plates configured to be mounted to various cutout back plates to receive standard electrical outlet boxes.

FIG. 12 shows various illustrative embodiments in which a plurality of device plates are arranged vertically.

FIGS. 13A and 13B show illustrative horizontal and vertical cutout back plates for supporting multiple angled hoods in accordance with illustrative embodiments.

FIGS. 14A to 14C show an illustrative power pedestal in accordance with an embodiment.

FIGS. 15A to 15D show an alternative embodiment of a power pedestal in accordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 16A and 16B show alternative embodiments of power pedestals in accordance with another embodiment.

FIGS. 17A and 17B show another illustrative power pedestal in accordance with yet another embodiment.

FIGS. 18A to 18C show illustrative examples of power pedestal terminal assemblies in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 19A and 19B show additional illustrative examples of power pedestal terminal assemblies in accordance with various embodiments.

FIGS. 20A to 20D show another illustrative power pedestal in accordance with still another embodiment.

FIGS. 21 to 27 each show an isometric view and corresponding plan views of various pedestal designs in accordance with an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure relates to a protective device for outdoor electrical outlets or receptacles, whether provided on outdoor walls or on power pedestals, and subjected to a wide range of weather conditions including variations in temperature, humidity, and precipitation. various improvements thereto.

In a first aspect, there is provided a protective device for an electrical outlet comprising an angled hood with at least one angled top surface, at least two side panels, and an angled bottom surface having an aperture suitably sized and shaped to receive a power cord from an electrical device. The aperture may also be suitably large to allow sufficient access to a person handling the electrical plug to insert or remove the plug from the outlet.

In a preferred embodiment, the top surface of the hood is angled, and extends to a suitable horizontal distance from the wall such that the hood substantially covers and protects the electrical outlet being covered. It will be appreciated, however, that the angle of the top surface of the hood, and the distance of the hood from the wall may be varied between any suitable range.

The top surface of the hood may extend to a suitable horizontal distance such the electrical outlet being covered is suitably protected from moisture, including rain and snow that may be directed towards the outlet at an angle. Thus, the electrical outlet is suitably protected even if access to the electrical outlet always remains open through the aperture in the angled bottom surface.

The protective hood may be installed over electrical outlets or receptacles provided on a power pedestal. The power pedestals may be generally shaped as towers of different heights depending on the number of electrical outlets provided on one or more sides of the tower.

Preferably, the protective hoods are removable such that the outlet may be serviced or the protective hoods may be replaced easily if damaged.

In an embodiment, when a plurality of protective hoods are mounted vertically, each of the protective hoods may optionally be installed in an overlapping configuration such that the top edge of a protective hood is covered bottom edge or skirt of a protective hood installed above. The uppermost protective hood may have its top edge covered by a pedestal lid, which at least partially over hangs the top of the pedestal on each side.

In another embodiment, a plurality of protective hoods may be joined and formed as an integral piece to cover multiple outlets. This may allow multiple protective hoods to be installed or removed together such that multiple outlets may be accessed for service more easily.

Illustrative embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the drawings.

Shown in FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an angled hood 100 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment. As shown, hood 100 includes an angled top surface 102, an angled bottom surface 104, and two side panels 106 adjoined to the top surface 102 and abutting bottom surface 104 along its edges. Suitable weather sealing may be provided along the length of the bottom surface 104 to prevent moisture from penetrating through any gaps. Alternatively, with hood 100 formed from a suitable metal, the side panel 106 may be welded to the bottom surface to form a complete, weatherproof seal. Bottom surface 104 includes an aperture 108 suitably shaped and sized to receive an electrical power cord and plug from an electrical appliance or electrical device.

In an embodiment, the angle A formed between angled top surface 102 and each bottom surface 104 (as further discussed below with reference to FIGS. 3C and 4C) is preferably between about 45 degrees and 90 degrees, with each side panel 106 appropriately proportioned to abut bottom surface 104 along its edges.

For angle A, it has been found that a range of angles between about 45 degrees and about 50 degrees minimizes the collection of rain or snow on the top surface, allowing virtually all moisture on the angled top surface 102 to be directed away from the protected electrical outlet.

In the illustrative embodiment shown in FIG. 1, angled top surface 102 is angled at about 45 degrees from horizontal, and extends horizontally until it is halfway down the hood 100. In this example, the angled bottom surface 104 is also angled at about 45 degrees from horizontal in the opposite direction, such that the angled top surface 102 and angled bottom surface 104 form a right angle with respect to each other such that angle A is 90 degrees. Side panel 106 therefore forms a right angle triangle.

Still referring to FIG. 1, mounting holes 110 may be used to securely mount the hood 100 onto a vertical surface, such as a wall, or the surface of a panel. Suitable weather sealing may be provided between hood 100 and the wall or panel surface, such that moisture is prevented from entering any gaps at the top or the sides of hood 100. For example, a rubber gasket, foam or silicone caulking may be used to form a weather proof seal along the top of the hood 100.

In another embodiment, aperture 108 in the bottom surface 104 is suitably shaped and sized to receive various devices. As the bottom surface 104 is angled, in this example at 45 degrees from horizontal, the aperture 108 must accommodate various devices inserted at an angle relative to the bottom surface 104.

In another embodiment, aperture 108 in the bottom surface 104 is suitably shaped and sized to receive various cutout plates, as detailed further below with reference to FIGS. 5A to 5E.

In another embodiment, in order to provide adequate drainage, hood 100 may include suitably sized drainage holes in each bottom surface 104, and a non-gasketed bottom lip to allow moisture to drain below the hood 100.

Now referring to FIG. 2, shown is a perspective view of an angled hood 100 and extended base 200 in accordance with another illustrative embodiment. In this case, extended base 200 provides a greater surface area for mounting hood 100 against a vertical surface. Extended base 200 further provides additional means by which to weather seal all sides of hood 100 against the vertical mounting surface. It will be appreciated that extended base 200 may be any suitable shape and width to perform the described function, and may include additional features to simplify mounting the hood 100 onto a vertical mounting surface.

Now referring to FIGS. 3A and 3B, shown are schematic side and front views, respectively, of an angled hood 100 in accordance with an embodiment. As shown in the front view in FIG. 3B, aperture 108 is suitably shaped and sized to receive one or more electrical cords and plugs to access one or more electrical outlets protected by the hood 100. The side view in FIG. 3A shows that the side panels 106 form a triangle with a sharper angle formed between its top and bottom edges, for example about 54 degrees, rather than 90 degrees as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 3C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be folded into the angled hood of FIGS. 3A and 3B by folding along the dotted fold lines. With the side panels 106 shown as wings attached to the top surface 102, the top of the hood 100 provides complete protection against moisture along the fold line between the top surface 102 and the side panels 106. In this example, the bottom surface 104 is approximately the same size as the top surface 102, and abuts the side panels 106 along their free edges. As noted above, this edge can be weather sealed with a suitable weather sealing material, or alternatively this edge may be welded, or otherwise joined to provide a seal. However, in another embodiment, this edge may also provide a slight gap (e.g. 0.02 inch) in order to allow venting into our out of the hood 100. As discussed earlier, the angle A formed between angled top surface 102 and each bottom surface 104 is preferably between about 45 degrees and 90 degrees, with each side panel 106 appropriately proportioned to abut bottom surface 104 along its edges. In this example, angle A is shown to be 63 degrees.

Now referring to FIGS. 4A and 4B, shown are schematic plan views of an angled hood in accordance with another embodiment. While this embodiment is similar to the one shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the aperture 108 is significantly different to accommodate another type of electrical outlet, and the corresponding electrical cords and plugs. As will be appreciated, virtually any type of electrical outlet may be accommodated by a suitably shaped and sized aperture 108.

FIG. 4C shows a schematic plan view of a flat sheet which may be folded into the angled hood of FIGS. 4A and 4B by folding along the dotted fold lines. Once again, the angle A formed between angled top surface 102 and each bottom surface 104 once hood 100 is folded is shown to be 63 degrees by way of example.

FIGS. 5A and 5B show a schematic plan view of an angled hood in accordance with another embodiment, in which the mounting holes and slots are repositioned to be mountable to different mounting holes provided on a wall or on a power pedestal.

Advantageously, the angled hood 100 of the present invention may be readily fitted over existing outdoor electrical outlets, and may be sized to be compatible with any size of electrical box. This includes conventional outdoor household electrical outlets with flush wall mount receptacle boxes, or electrical outlets with cast outlet boxes provided on outdoor pedestals or charging stations for electrical vehicles, for example. The hood 100 may be mounted by simply removing the existing device outlet, screw mounting an angle adapter, and reinstalling the electrical outlet into position.

In an illustrative embodiment, the angled hood 100 may be made from machine formed galvanized steel. Once formed into shape, the angled hood 100 may be painted using a suitable power coat paint to protect the surface from rusting and damage. Alternatively, rather than using steel, an insulative formable or moldable material may also be used, such as fibreglass, or injection molded plastic.

FIGS. 6 to 10 show different sizes and configurations of cutout back plates in accordance with various embodiments. As will be appreciated, the cutout plates may be configured to be suitable for virtually any shape, size or configuration of devices or power cords that may be accepted.

Now referring to FIGS. 11A to 11C, shown are illustrative horizontal, vertical and combined horizontal and vertical device plates configured to be mounted to various cutout back plates to receive standard electrical outlet boxes.

FIG. 12 shows various embodiments of a device back plate having a different number of outlets.

Now referring to FIGS. 13A and 13B, shown are horizontal and vertical back plates 600A and 600B, respectively, for supporting multiple angled hoods in accordance with illustrative embodiments. As shown back plates 1300A, 1300B may support multiple angled hoods 100 arranged horizontally or vertically, allowing multiple receptacle connection points for applications requiring a large number of receptacles.

FIGS. 14A to 14D show an illustrative power pedestal 1400A in accordance with an embodiment. Preferably, the power pedestal 1400A complies with industry standards such as an EEMAC (Electrical and Electronic Manufacturing Association of Canada)/NEMA (National Electrical Manufactures Association) Type 3R, and CSA (Canadian Standards Association), or similar electrical standards which may apply in other jurisdictions.

As shown in FIGS. 14A to 14C, an illustrative power pedestal 1400A includes a generally vertically elongate body 1410, mounted to a base by means of a plurality of fasteners 1412. The elongate body 1410 may be made from a durable, long lasting corrosion resistant material, such as galvanized metal construction, to prevent rusting and assure a long lasting quality finish. Various power paint colors may be used to prepare the elongate body 1410 for outdoor applications.

In a preferred embodiment, the power pedestal has a generally smooth surface, with no visible mounting bolts or a flanged base which may trap moisture and may be prone to rust. One or more of the front, back or side panels of the elongate body 1410 may be removable to provide access to the panel.

As shown, a pedestal lid 1420 extends over all sides of the elongate body 1410. The lid 1420 is maintained in place by a fastener 1422, and may be formed from a soft material with smooth edges to prevent cuts from scraping against edges or corners. The top surface of the lid 1420 may also be suitably sloped by raising the center and to help drain moisture away.

In another embodiment, one or more receptacles 1430 are provided on at least one side of the elongate body 1410, for example in a standard NEMA 5-15R configuration. However, it will be appreciated that various types of receptacles may be made available, including GFCI type receptacles to prevent shocks if the receptacles are inadvertently exposed to moisture. Furthermore, a suitable light source and photo-cell to turn on the light source at dusk may be provided near the receptacles to show their location and make insertion of power cords easier.

Each receptacle 1430 may be covered by suitable self-closing covers, made of thermoplastic for example. One or more removable front access covers may be used to cover an opening on one of the sides of the power pedestal 1400A.

Shown in FIG. 14B is an illustrative example of an interchangeable pedestal base 1400B, having a frame 1440 with an opening, and a plurality of apertures 1442 for fastening the pedestal base 1400B, 1400C. In an embodiment, pedestal base 1400B may also have vertically extending flanges on each side, to which the vertically elongate body 1410 may be attached by means of a plurality of fasteners 1412, such as ⅜″ mounting fasteners, for example.

In an embodiment, the pedestal base 1400B, 1400C may be constructed from galvanized steel, and mounted to the elongate body 1410 by suitable galvanized screws. Preferably, the elongate body 1410 is mounted in the base 1400B, 1400C such that the elongate body 1410 is slightly above (e.g. ¼ inch) the ground or mounting platform. This slight gap between the elongate body 1410 and the mounting surface significantly improves ventilation to the cabinet, and prevents the elongate body 1410 from collecting moisture at its base around the bottom of the power pedestal.

Still referring to FIGS. 14A-14C, in an embodiment, the interchangeable pedestal base and/or the pedestal mounting hardware includes at least one stress relief point, such that the power pedestal can break away from the interchangeable pedestal base if the power pedestal is accidentally struck, for example by a motor vehicle or trailer that is backing up in a drive way, parking lot, or an RV camp site at which the power pedestal is installed.

In an embodiment, the stress relief feature may be one or more weakened sections of the interchangeable pedestal base designed to allow the power pedestal to break away from the base with minimal damage to the power pedestal. For example, a weakened section may be formed by utilizing a material with a lower threshold for deformation, such as a thinner sheet metal, or a plastic material. Alternatively, a partial cutout may be formed into a section of the pedestal base to form a designed point of failure.

This break away feature sacrifices a relatively low cost part, such as the interchangeable pedestal base or the mounting hardware, to minimize damage on the power pedestal with its more costly parts and components.

In a similar manner, protective angled hoods mounted on the power pedestal may also be configured to be deformable, such that the protective hoods can at least partially absorb the impact of the motor vehicle or trailer, and be readily replaced with a replacement hood if damaged. On the sides of the power pedestal that do not have protective angled hoods mounted, a sacrificial plate or resilient bumper guard may be provided to protect the power pedestal from damage.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal has a profile whereby its base is not extended, but rather the same size as the body all the way to the base. The lack of any extending flanges also helps avoid collection of moisture near the base to prevent corrosion.

The power pedestal is also suitably sized such that one or more receptacles may be provided at a suitable height for access. The one or more receptacles may be covered by a suitable receptacle cover to protect the receptacle from moisture. Each receptacle may be separately covered.

Referring to FIGS. 15A to 15D, shown is another illustrative power pedestal 200A which provides a significantly shortened version of elongate body 1510, mounted to a base by means of a plurality of fasteners 1512. Power pedestal 1500A may be adapted to be EEMAC/NEMA Type 3R compliant for outdoor use.

As shown in FIG. 15D, an optional hinged hood may be mounted over the outlet provided on the power pedestal.

FIGS. 15B and 15C show a base 1500B having an opening for feeds, and a plurality of apertures for fastening the base 1500B to a surface. A ground screw may be provided to provide a point of contact for one or more ground wires which may have a direct electrical connection to earth or another ground.

FIG. 15D shows an alternative embodiment in which an optional hinged hood 200D is provided to replace the standard hood 120 of FIG. 2A and to provide additional protection from precipitation, and to provide cover while the receptacle is in use. The hinged hood may be adapted to meet specified standards, such as CEO (Canadian Electric Code) Rule #26-702, for example.

Now referring to FIGS. 16A and 16B, shown is another illustrative embodiment of power pedestals having an electrical outlet, over which a protective hood may be mounted, such as the protective angled hood of FIG. 1. Each power pedestal 1600A, 1600B includes a circuit breaker 1610 which may provide additional protection from circuit overloads to improve safety of the power pedestals 1600A, 1600B. By way of example, the circuit breakers may be 10 kAIC (kilo Amp Interrupting Capacity) molded case type, and may be positioned just under the removable hoods to provide for easy local resetting capability, without having to open an entire panel. However, if access to the cabinet is necessary, one or more of the front, back or side panels of the pedestals 1600A, 1600B may be removed.

Now referring to FIGS. 17A and 17B, shown is another illustrative embodiment of a power pedestal 1700A and a corresponding base 1700B having a profile suitable for mounting the body of the power pedestal 1700A. In this embodiment, the power pedestal 400A is shaped and sized to be mounted on top of a tubular rail that may be used, for example, in a parking lot. By way of example, these tubular rails may be 1M Series HSS 5″×5″ Rails.

In this embodiment, the base 1700B may have a feed through aperture which allows electrical wires fed through the tubular rail and through the base 1700B of the power pedestal 1700A.

Now referring to FIGS. 18A to 18C, and FIGS. 19A and 19B, shown are various configurations for different types of wire binding plates, including 1 phase, 3 wire styles shown in FIGS. 18A and 5B, and 3 phase, 4 wire styles shown in FIG. 18C and FIG. 19A. FIG. 19B shows conductors attached with excess loops at the point of termination to allow for some settling. Thus, different wire binding plate configurations may accommodate different mounting in different sizes of power pedestals, depending on requirements.

Now referring to FIGS. 20A to 20C, shown is another illustrative embodiment of a power pedestal 2000A. As shown in FIG. 20B, an optional double sided hood 2000B may be installed which has hinged panels 2010, 2012 on either side providing access to different types of receptacles.

As shown in FIG. 20A, optional molded case circuit breakers (MCCB) rated at 10kAIC may be fed through 20 gauge copper or aluminum ring terminals attached to a ground bar to allow code compliance for feeder circuits over 60A.

As will be understood, the above illustrative embodiments may be implemented in various configurations. FIGS. 20 to 27 illustrate pedestal designs in accordance with various further embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 20, an isometric view of a pedestal is shown having a protective angled hood mounted thereto over an electrical outlet (covered by the protective hood). As shown in the corresponding plan views, the protective angled hood is mounted to one side of the pedestal in a basic configuration.

FIG. 21 also shows a basic configuration in which the protective angled hood is mounted to an electrical box.

FIG. 22 shows an alternative configuration in which two protective angled hoods are mounted to the same side of a pedestal.

FIG. 23 shows another configuration in which protective angled hoods are mounted on opposite sides of an electrical box.

FIG. 24 shows another configuration in which a protective angled hood is mounted over an outlet provided near the top of a power pedestal. In this configuration, a pedestal lid is provided with an overhang, which partially covers the top edge of the angled hood.

Thus, in an aspect, there is provided a protective device for an outdoor electrical outlet, comprising: at least one angled top surface; at least two side panels adjoining the top surface; and an angled bottom surface having an aperture.

In an embodiment, the angled top surface is angled downwardly to extend to a sufficient horizontal distance from the wall, such that the angled top surface substantially covers and protects the electrical outlet from the top.

In another embodiment, the angled top surface joins the angled bottom surface at an apex, and wherein an angle A formed between the angled top surface and the angled bottom surface is between about 45 degrees and 90 degrees.

In another embodiment, the aperture on the angled bottom surface is suitably sized and shaped to receive a power cord from an electrical device.

In another embodiment, the two side panels adjoining the top surface are further adjoined to edges of the angled bottom surface.

In another embodiment, the protective device is adapted to be installed over electrical outlets or receptacles provided on a power pedestal.

In another embodiment, the protective device is adapted to be deformable and replaceable upon receiving any damage to the protective device.

In another embodiment, the protective device is formed from sheet metal that is folded to form each section of the protective device.

In another embodiment, the protective device is formed from an insulative formable or moldable material, such as fibreglass or injection molded plastic.

In another embodiment, the bottom end of the protective device is adapted to provide one or more moisture drainage openings to allow moisture to drain from the protective device.

In another aspect, there is provided a power pedestal adapted to receive a protective device for each electrical outlet provided on the power pedestal, the protective device comprising: at least one angled top surface; at least two side panels adjoining the top surface; and an angled bottom surface having an aperture.

In an embodiment, the power pedestal is further adapted to mount a plurality of protective devices over a plurality of electrical outlets arranged vertically or horizontally.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal is further adapted to receive a cutout back plate for mounting one or more different types of standard electrical boxes.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal further comprises an interchangeable pedestal base adapted to mount the power pedestal, and wherein the power pedestal base includes at least one built-in stress relief feature adapted to allow the power pedestal to break-away from the pedestal base if an external mechanical stress on the pedestal base exceeds a predetermined breaking point.

In another embodiment, the at least one built-in stress relief feature comprises a material with a lower threshold for deformation, or a partial cutout of a section of the interchangeable pedestal base forming a designed point of failure.

In another embodiment, the interchangeable pedestal base is adapted to mount the power pedestal to a base with at least a minimum clearance gap such that the power pedestal is ventilated from below.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal further comprises one or more additional ventilation grills on one or more sides of the power pedestal cabinet.

In another embodiment, the power pedestal further comprises a circuit breaker to interrupt electrical current to each outlet if a ground fault is detected.

In another embodiment, the angled top surface is angled downwardly to extend to a sufficient horizontal distance from the wall, such that the angled top surface substantially covers and protects the electrical outlet from the top.

It will be understood that the above embodiments are illustrative and are not meant to be limiting. Therefore, the following claims should be given their broadest interpretation consistent with the present disclosure.

PROTECTIVE APPARATUS FOR OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL OUTLETS

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