Patent Application
20230378679
Terminal blocks can be used to electrically connect various electrical conductors and components. For example, a user can use a terminal block to couple multiple cables and/or devices to carry an audio signal, transfer power, transmit data, and/or for other purposes. With some terminals, the electrical and mechanical coupling between wires and/or other types of conductors is incomplete and/or unreliable. Such connections can cause interruptions in electrical signals, inconsistent power transfer, sparks between electrical conductors, and/or increases in electrical impedance among other effects.
Thus, there is a need for improvement in this field.
Terminal blocks are often used to connect audio/visual (AV) systems. Sometimes pluggable style terminal blocks, such as Phoenix connectors or Euroblocks, are specifically used to connect speaker wires to sound systems, such as audio amplifiers, or other electronic devices. Many Euroblocks and other terminal blocks require a user to unscrew a housing, insert the wire, tighten a set screw to secure the wire, and then screw back on the housing. As should be appreciated, the process is time-consuming and difficult. In some instances, the process does not ensure that the wire is fully secured which can allow the wire to disconnect from the terminal block among other complications. This can be a significant issue when setting up and breaking down sound equipment at concerts and in studios.
A unique pluggable terminal block has been developed to enable quick and secure electrical connections. In one example, the terminal block is generally in a form similar to a Euroblock or Phoenix connector, but instead of having a screw to clamp the wires, the pluggable terminal block includes a lever mechanism that is able to quickly secure to and disengage from the wires. In one variation, the pluggable terminal block includes a body configured to retain and secure a wire. Attached to the body, the terminal block further includes a plug configured to couple to an outlet or socket. The plug is configured to retain electrical pins in the outlet. In one embodiment, the body and the plug are integrally formed as a single part. The body further includes a lever configured to actuate an internal spring. In one example, the spring is made from aluminum. In another example, the spring is made from stainless steel, but it should be appreciated that the spring can be made from other electrically conductive materials. The lever generally moves the spring from an open position configured to receive a wire to a closed position configured to retain the wire. In one example, the spring includes an aperture configured to receive the wire when the lever is in the open position. The aperture is further configured to surround and retain the wire when the lever is in the second position. The spring aperture is sized to receive wires ranging in size from 12-24 American wire gauge (AWG). In another example, the lever is perpendicular to the body of the terminal block in the open position and is parallel to the body of the terminal block in the closed position. In the open position, the lever applies a compression force to the spring. Generally, the compression force moves the spring aperture vertically (e.g. downward). Thus, the spring aperture is exposed and able to receive the wire. In the closed position, the lever is not in contact with the spring.
The pluggable terminal block further includes a busbar configured to transfer electricity between conductors at either end of the terminal block. For example, the wire transfers electricity into the terminal block, along the busbar, and into a device. In one example, the busbar is made from a highly conductive material, such as copper, aluminum, silver, and/or gold. In another example, the busbar is plated with a conductive material (e.g., gold plated). In one embodiment, the busbar extends through the aperture of the spring. For example, the busbar and the spring aperture are configured to form a sandwich arrangement with the wire. As should be appreciated, this arrangement clamps the wire between the spring and the busbar in a secure connection.
Within the plug, the busbar includes a socket that is configured to receive pins from the outlet. The socket includes two leaves that extend toward the outlet and define a pin opening. The leaves then transition into arches which curve inward towards each other. By curving towards each other, the arches are configured to contact and electrically connect to the pin when the pin is inserted into the pin opening of the socket. The arches further apply a compressive force to the pin to limit movement of the pin and to maintain the electrical connection. The arches then transition into lips that curve outward and define a mouth. By curving outward, the lips and arches allow a pin to separate the arches and move into the pin opening between the leaves. The terminal block further includes one or more clips that are configured to mechanically couple the terminal block to a ridge on the outlet. As should be appreciated, the socket allows a user to establish a secure electrical connection by simply pushing the terminal block into the outlet.
In one embodiment, the pluggable terminal block includes two busbars, two springs, and two levers. The pluggable terminal block further includes a divider between the busbars to electrically isolate the busbars and support two independent conduction paths. In another embodiment, the terminal block includes three busbars and two dividers to support three separate conduction paths. In yet another embodiment, the terminal block includes four busbars and three dividers to support four separate conduction paths. In a further embodiment, the terminal block includes five busbars and four dividers to support five separate conduction paths. In yet another embodiment, the terminal block includes six busbars and five dividers to support six separate conduction paths. As should be appreciated, the various embodiments of the terminal block include the same spring and lever mechanism for each conduction path. Further, the terminal block could be expanded to support any number of conduction paths.
In another embodiment, the pluggable terminal block is configured to couple to one or more other pluggable terminal blocks to form a terminal block assembly. In one example, the pluggable terminal blocks include ribs and/or slots. The slots are configured to retain the ribs. When two pluggable terminal blocks couple together, ribs on one pluggable terminal block slide into slots on the other pluggable terminal block such as to prevent the pluggable terminal blocks from moving in a lateral direction relative to one another. In one example, the pluggable terminal blocks further include studs and/or divots. When the pluggable terminal blocks are coupled together, the divots are configured to retain the studs such as to limit movement of the terminal blocks relative to one another. By coupling multiple pluggable terminal blocks, a user can construct a terminal block assembly with a desired amount of electrical conduction paths. For example, a user can couple a pluggable terminal block that supports two conduction paths and a pluggable terminal block that supports three conduction paths. The resulting terminal block assembly therefore supports five conduction paths. As should be appreciated, the terminal block assembly can couple to an outlet in the same way as a single pluggable terminal block of the same size. Further, any number of pluggable terminal blocks could be coupled to support any number of conduction paths.
In an example use case, a user begins by rotating the lever into the open position. As mentioned above, the lever applies force to the spring in the open position, thus exposing the spring aperture. The user then inserts the wire into the spring aperture via a wire opening in the body. Once the wire is within the spring aperture, the user rotates the lever into the closed position. As mentioned above, the lever does not apply force to the spring in the closed position, thus the spring aperture moves vertically upward, sandwiching the wire between the spring aperture and the busbar. As should be appreciated, the wire and busbar are electrically connected once the wire is in contact with the busbar. To remove the terminal block from the wire, the user rotates the lever into the open position and pulls the wire out of the spring aperture.
In another example case, the user can insert the plug into the outlet. As the user inserts the plug, the pin of the outlet contacts the socket of the busbar. The arches of the socket compress the pin to maintain contact and electrical connection between the pin and busbar. At the same time, the clip on the terminal block attaches to the ridge of the outlet to further strengthen the mechanical connection. To remove the terminal block from the outlet, the user lifts the clip away from the ridge and pulls the terminal block out of the outlet. In one instance, the user connects the wire to the terminal block before connecting the terminal block to the outlet. In another instance, the user connects the terminal block to the outlet and then connects the wire to the terminal block.
The system and techniques as described and illustrated herein concern a number of unique and inventive aspects. Some, but by no means all, of these unique aspects are summarized below.
Aspect 1 generally concerns a system.
Aspect 2 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including a terminal block.
Aspect 3 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block is configured to facilitate toolless connection of a wire to the terminal block.
Aspect 4 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes a lever configured to actuate an internal spring.
Aspect 5 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever actuates the spring from a first position configured to receive a wire to a second position configured to retain the wire.
Aspect 6 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the aperture is configured to surround and retain the wire in the second position.
Aspect 7 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring aperture is configured to direct the wire vertically upward into contact with a busbar when in the second position.
Aspect 8 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the wire is contacted on one side via the busbar in the second position.
Aspect 9 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the wire is contacted on an opposite side via an edge of the spring aperture in the second position.
Aspect 10 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever applies a compression force to the spring in the first position.
Aspect 11 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the compression force is configured to compress the spring to allow access to the spring aperture in the first position.
Aspect 12 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes a body portion defining an integral channel.
Aspect 13 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever is configured to rest within the integral channel when in the second position to prevent accidental rotation of the lever.
Aspect 14 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring includes an aperture configured to retain the wire within the terminal block.
Aspect 15 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the aperture includes an edge configured to direct the wire vertically upward into contact with a busbar in a sandwich arrangement.
Aspect 16 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the sandwich arrangement is configured to retain the wire within the terminal block.
Aspect 17 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes a busbar configured to transfer electricity.
Aspect 18 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar extends through the aperture of the spring.
Aspect 19 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar and spring aperture are configured to form a sandwich arrangement with the wire when in the second position.
Aspect 20 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the sandwich arrangement is configured to securely retain the wire in the second position.
Aspect 21 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block accepts 12-24 American wire gauges (AWG) wire.
Aspect 22 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including a plug configured to receive a pin.
Aspect 23 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar includes a socket configured to receive the pin.
Aspect 24 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar being configured to provide an electrical connection between the wire and the pin.
Aspect 25 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring having an open position configured to receive the wire and a closed position configured to clamp the wire to the busbar.
Aspect 26 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring is biased to the closed position.
Aspect 27 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever configured to actuate the spring to the opened position.
Aspect 28 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the body.
Aspect 31 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the spring.
Aspect 32 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring including a base, an arm facing the base, and a fulcrum where the spring bends to connect the base to the arm.
Aspect 33 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the base of the spring presses against the busbar.
Aspect 34 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring having an arm that bends towards the base.
Aspect 35 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the arm defining an aperture with an edge configured to clamp the wire against the busbar.
Aspect 36 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar has a guide that extends through the aperture in the arm of the spring.
Aspect 37 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring having an open position where the edge of the aperture is spaced away from the busbar to form a gap to receive the wire.
Aspect 38 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring having a closed position wherein the edge of the aperture clamps the wire against the guide of the busbar to retain the wire.
Aspect 39 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the lever.
Aspect 40 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the lever pivotally coupled to the body.
Aspect 41 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever being configured to pivot to press the arm towards the base by bending the spring at the fulcrum to move the spring to the open position to receive the wire.
Aspect 42 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever being configured to release the arm to allow spring to spring back to the closed position.
Aspect 44 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar including a socket on an opposite side from the spring.
Aspect 45 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring is attached to the busbar.
Aspect 46 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the fulcrum of the spring is positioned proximal to the flange of the busbar where the pin is attached.
Aspect 47 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever having a lobe configured to press the arm toward the base of the spring when the lever is pivoted.
Aspect 48 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever is configured to actuate the spring.
Aspect 49 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring defining an aperture configured to retain a wire within the terminal block.
Aspect 50 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the aperture includes an edge configured to press the wire into contact with the busbar in a sandwich arrangement.
Aspect 51 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the busbar.
Aspect 52 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar integrally connected to the spring.
Aspect 53 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket is configured to receive a pin.
Aspect 54 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the body defines a channel.
Aspect 55 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever is configured to rest within the channel to prevent accidental rotation of the lever.
Aspect 56 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar is integrally connected to the spring.
Aspect 57 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the edge of the aperture in the spring is positioned on a side of the wire that is opposite to the busbar when in the closed position.
Aspect 58 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever rests within the channel when the spring is in the closed position.
Aspect 59 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lever is configured to extend out of the channel when pivoted to compress the spring to the open position.
Aspect 60 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the plug.
Aspect 61 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the plug is integrally formed with the body.
Aspect 62 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the plug is configured to couple to an outlet.
Aspect 63 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the plug is configured to receive a pin when coupled to an outlet.
Aspect 64 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar positioned within the body and the plug.
Aspect 65 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the busbar including a strut and a socket.
Aspect 66 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the strut.
Aspect 67 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the socket.
Aspect 68 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket defines a pin opening.
Aspect 69 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket includes leaves.
Aspect 70 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket includes a panel.
Aspect 71 generally concerns the method of any previous aspect including leaves extending from opposite sides of the panel.
Aspect 72 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the arches.
Aspect 73 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the lips.
Aspect 74 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the leaves curve toward each other to form arches.
Aspect 75 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the arches curve away from each other to form lips.
Aspect 76 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the arches are configured to contact a pin.
Aspect 77 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the arches are configured to compress a pin between each other.
Aspect 78 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the lips define a mouth that is configured to receive a pin.
Aspect 79 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the arches are configured to spread apart when a pin moves into the mouth toward the pin opening.
Aspect 80 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the leaves define a pin opening between each other.
Aspect 81 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket is configured to retain a pin in the pin opening to maintain an electrical connection.
Aspect 82 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including a separator.
Aspect 83 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the separator positioned in the body and plug.
Aspect 84 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes more than one busbar.
Aspect 85 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the separator being positioned between two busbars.
Aspect 86 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the separator is configured to electrically isolate two busbars.
Aspect 87 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes three busbars.
Aspect 88 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes two separators positioned to isolate three busbars.
Aspect 89 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes four busbars.
Aspect 90 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes three separators positioned to isolate four busbars.
Aspect 91 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes five busbars.
Aspect 92 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes four separators positioned to isolate five busbars.
Aspect 93 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes six busbars.
Aspect 94 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes five separators positioned to isolate six busbars.
Aspect 95 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the separator is integrally formed with the body.
Aspect 96 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which each terminal block includes a lever and a spring for each busbar.
Aspect 97 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the clip configured to couple to an outlet when the plug is positioned in the outlet.
Aspect 98 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including the spring configured to selectively couple a wire to the busbar.
Aspect 99 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the plug and body are separate parts that are attached to each other.
Aspect 100 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the strut is configured to contact a wire.
Aspect 101 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect including an intermediate portion connecting the strut and the socket.
Aspect 102 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the intermediate portion is arched.
Aspect 103 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar is formed from a single piece of material.
Aspect 104 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar is formed by cutting and bending a single piece of material.
Aspect 105 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the number of separators is one less than the number of busbars.
Aspect 106 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the spring includes an aperture configured to receive the wire in the first position.
Aspect 107 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar is configured to connect conductors on a separate conduction path.
Aspect 108 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block is configured to facilitate toolless connection of the pin and the outlet.
Aspect 109 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the leaf extends in a parallel direction to the other leaf.
Aspect 110 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar includes a strut positioned near the spring.
Aspect 111 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbar includes an intermediate portion.
Aspect 112 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket is configured to receive a pin with a width between 0.5 and 2.5 millimeters.
Aspect 113 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the busbars are aligned in a row with one separator positioned between every two busbars.
Aspect 114 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block is a pluggable type terminal block.
Aspect 115 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block is in a form of a Euroblock.
Aspect 116 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the socket configured to receive a Euroblock.
Aspect 117 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the outlet configured to receive the terminal block in a pluggable manner.
Aspect 118 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block is configured to couple to another terminal block.
Aspect 119 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal blocks are configured to couple using a dovetail joint.
Aspect 120 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block defines a slot.
Aspect 121 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes a rib.
Aspect 122 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes a rib and a slot.
Aspect 123 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block defines a divot.
Aspect 124 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block includes a stud.
Aspect 125 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the slot is configured to receive the rib.
Aspect 126 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the rib is wider on a distal end than on a proximal end.
Aspect 127 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the slot extends through one side of the terminal block.
Aspect 128 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the rib is configured to slide into the slot from one side of the terminal block.
Aspect 129 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the slot extends through a bottom side of the terminal block.
Aspect 130 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the divot is configured to receive the stud.
Aspect 131 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the divot and stud are configured to impede terminal blocks from sliding relative to one another.
Aspect 132 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the divot of one terminal block is configured to receive the stud of another terminal block.
Aspect 133 generally concerns the system of any previous aspect in which the terminal block is configured to couple to another terminal block using a dovetail joint.
Further forms, objects, features, aspects, benefits, advantages, and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from a detailed description and drawings provided herewith.
For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications in the described embodiments and any further applications of the principles of the invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates. One embodiment of the invention is shown in great detail, although it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that some features that are not relevant to the present invention may not be shown for the sake of clarity.
The reference numerals in the following description have been organized to aid the reader in quickly identifying the drawings where various components are first shown. In particular, the drawing in which an element first appears is typically indicated by the left-most digit(s) in the corresponding reference number. For example, an element identified by a “100” series reference numeral will likely first appear in
Referring to
Referring to
The lever 130 is rotatably coupled to the body 125. The lever 130 is operable such that rotating the lever 130 in one direction opens a space for the wire 105 and/or another electrical conductor to be positioned within the terminal block 100. Subsequently rotating the lever 130 in an opposite direction closes the space such as to secure the wire 105 in place within the terminal block 100. Through the lever 130, a user can reliably couple the wire 105 to the terminal block 100 without needing tools and/or other devices. The terminal block 100 allows a user to establish a quick and reliable electrical connection between various devices through the lever 130 and outlet 110. Each lever 130 is configured to selectively couple a conductor to a separate conduction path within the terminal block 100. In the illustrated example, the terminal block 100 is configured to connect pairs of electrical conductors along two conduction paths. In other embodiments, the terminal block 100 is configured to connect conductors along another number of paths, such as one, five, or an amount greater than five.
The body 125 defines wire openings 135 on the wire side 115. The wire openings 135 are configured to provide space for the wires 105 within the terminal block 100. The lever 130 is configured to selectively couple the terminal block 100 to the wire 105 when the wire 105 is positioned within the wire opening 135. In one example, the wire opening 135 is configured to receive the wire 105 as large as 0 American Wire Gauge (AWG). In another example, the plug opening 310 can receive wire 105 as small as 24 AWG. In yet another example, the wire opening 135 is configured to receive the wire 105 between 12 and 24 AWG. The body 125 further defines a channel 205 for each lever 130. The channels 205 are configured to provide space for lever 130 in the shown arrangement.
The terminal block 100 includes a plug 140 positioned toward the outlet side 120. The plug 140 is configured to mechanically couple to the outlet 110. In one example, the plug 140 supports the terminal block 100 by mechanically coupling to the outlet 110. In one embodiment, the plug 140 is integrally formed from the same piece of material as the body 125. In another embodiment, the plug 140 is formed from a separate piece of material and is mechanically coupled to the body 125 through adhesive, clips, fasteners, and/or by the shapes of the body 125 and plug 140. Further, the plug 140 is made of a rigid material. In one example, the plug 140 is made from an electrically non-conductive material, such as plastic.
Each wire 105 includes a conductive portion 145 and an insulated portion 150. The conductive portion 145 is made of an electrically conductive material, such as copper and/or aluminum. The conductive portion 145 is configured to contact and electrically connect to the interior of the terminal block 100. The insulated portion 150 surrounds a portion of the conductive portion 145 and is made of an insulative material. The insulated portion 150 prevents unintended contact and electrical connections with the conductive portion 145 of the wire 105. In an alternate embodiment, the wire 105 does not include the insulated portion 150.
The outlet 110 generally includes one or more pins 155. The pin 155 is made of an electrically conductive material, such as copper and/or aluminum. In one example, the pin 155 is gold-plated. The pin 155 is configured to contact and electrically connect to the interior of the terminal block 100. In one embodiment, the pin 155 is electrically connected to a circuit on one side of the outlet 110. For example, the pin 155 can connect to a circuit board, wiring, and/or other conductors. The outlet 110 further defines a plug receptacle 160. The plug receptacle 160 provides space for the plug 140 when the terminal block 100 couples to the outlet 110. The pins 155 are positioned within the plug receptacle 160. When a user inserts the plug 140 into the plug receptacle 160, the insulated portions 150 become positioned within the plug 140. In the illustrated embodiment, the number of pins 155 and the shape of the plug receptacle 160 correspond to the number of conduction paths in the terminal block 100. As should be appreciated, the outlet 110 could include a greater number of pins 155 than the number of conduction paths in the terminal block 100 and/or the plug receptacle 160 could be shaped to receive a connector with a greater number of conduction paths than in the terminal block 100.
As shown in
The terminal block 100 further includes a clip 315 that is configured to facilitate mechanical coupling between the terminal block 100 and the outlet 110. The clip 315 extends from the body 125 on the outlet side 120. In the shown embodiment, the clip 315 is bent such that when the terminal block 100 couples to outlet 110, a portion of the clip 315 extends around and contacts a portion of the outlet 110. Through such contact, the clip 315 limits or fully prevents movement of the terminal block 100 relative to the device. For example, the clip 315 fixes the position of the plug 140 within the plug receptacle 160.
Referring to
Referring to
The busbar 805 generally includes a strut 815, a socket 820, and an intermediate portion 825. The strut 815 is positioned towards the wire side 115. When the wire 105 is positioned within the terminal block 100 and the lever 130 is arranged in the closed position 705, the strut 815 is configured to contact the wire 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the strut 815 provides a mostly flat surface for the wire 105 to contact. In one embodiment, the strut 815 includes multiple flat portions that are oriented at an angle to one another. In an alternative embodiment, the strut 815 is shaped such as to at least partially curve around the wire 105. Opposite the strut 815, the socket 820 is positioned towards the outlet side 120. When the terminal block 100 is coupled to the outlet 110, the socket 820 is configured to contact the pin 155 of the outlet 110. In one embodiment, the socket 820 is configured to automatically mechanically and electrically couple to the pin 155 when the terminal block 100 and outlet 110 couple together. For example, the socket 820 can compress the pin 155 and/or another conductor to establish mechanical and electrical contact when the conductor is pushed into the socket 820. In this way, the socket 820 supports making quick electrical connections without the need for tools or other equipment. The intermediate portion 825 is positioned between the strut 815 and socket 820 in order to form a continuous busbar 805. In the illustrated example, the intermediate portion 825 is arched. In one instance, the arched shape of the intermediate portion 825 and the interior of the body 125 limit or completely prevent movement of the busbar 805 in a direction between the wire side 115 and outlet side 120.
The spring 810 generally includes a base 830 and a fulcrum 835. The base 830 is configured to rest on the busbar 805 and provide support for the spring 810. The base 830 extends into the fulcrum 835 which forms a pivot point for the spring 810. In the configuration shown in
From the fulcrum 835, the spring 810 further extends into an arm 845. When the spring 810 compresses, the arm 845 pivots around the fulcrum 835 relative to the base 830. Typically, the base 830 remains stationary as the arm 845 pivots. The arm 845 transitions into a bend 850 towards the wire side 115 and then into a leg 855. The bend 850 is configured to orient the leg 855 towards the busbar 805 and base 830. In one example, the bend 850 defines an angle less than 180 degrees between the arm 845 and leg 855. In another instance, the bend 850 defines an angle from 45 degrees to 90 degrees between the arm 845 and leg 855. In the illustrated embodiment, the leg 855 extends past the busbar 805 and base 830 while the spring 810 is in the resting position 840. The body 125 defines a cavity 860 that provides clearance for the leg 855.
The spring 810 further includes an edge 910 on a portion of the leg 855. The edge 910 defines one side of the aperture 905 and is configured to contact the wire 105 when the wire 105 is coupled to the terminal block 100. The busbar 805 and spring 810 define a gap 915 within the aperture 905 between the edge 910 and the busbar 805. The gap 915 provides space for the wire 105 to be positioned when coupled to the terminal block 100. When the spring 810 is in the resting position 840, the edge 910 is positioned closer to the busbar 805 such that the gap 915 is smaller.
Referring to
As shown, the spring 810 applies force to the wire 105 such as to electrically connect the conductive portion 145 of the wire 105 to the busbar 805 and such as to mechanically secure the wire 105 within the terminal block 100. When the lever 130 is rotated to the closed position 705, the spring 810 returns to the resting position 840. The edge 910 of the spring 810 then moves toward the busbar 805 and reduces the gap 915. With the wire 105 positioned within the aperture 905, the edge 910 is configured to contact the wire 105. The edge 910 is configured to apply force to the wire 105 such that the conductive portion 145 contacts the busbar 805 on the strut 815. The contact enables an electrical connection between the conductive portion 145 and busbar 805. Further, the force from the spring 810 maintains the contact between the conductive portion 145 and busbar 805 such as to promote a stable electrical connection. The lever 130 and spring 810 enable a user to establish a reliable and stable electrical connection between the wire 105 and terminal block 100 without the need for additional tools.
Referring to
The spacers 1407 are generally formed from a portion of the body 125. In another embodiment, the spacers 1407 can be separate pieces from the body 125. The spacers 1407 are configured to provide support between the strut 815 and the socket 820 of the busbar 805. In this position, the spacers 1407 limit or prevent movement of the busbar 805 between the wire side 115 and the outlet side 120. For example, the spacer 1407 allows the busbar 805 to maintain the same position when conductors contact the busbar 805 when being inserted into the wire opening 135 and/or plug opening 310. Additionally, the spacer 1407 provides support to the spring 810 to limit or prevent movement in a similar way.
In the shown embodiment, the sidewalls 1410 are formed from portions of the body 125 and the plug 140. In another embodiment, the sidewalls 1410 can be separate parts from the body 125 and/or the plug 140. The sidewall 1410 is configured to provide structural support to the terminal block 100 and to electrically insulate the busbars 805 from external objects. In one example, the sidewall 1410 supports the busbar 805 and/or spring 810 in a lateral direction in combination with the divider 1405 such as to limit or prevent movement of the busbar 805 and/or spring 810. The sidewalls 1410 are generally made from an insulative material. By insulating the busbars 805 from external objects, the sidewalls 1410 are configured to prevent incidental contact with other conductors, such as neighboring wires 105, pins 155, and/or the busbar 805 in another terminal block 100.
As illustrated, the plug 140 defines a socket opening 1412 between the divider 1405 and the sidewall 1410. In another embodiment, the plug 140 defines the socket opening 1412 between two dividers 1405 or between two sidewalls 1410. The socket opening 1412 provides space for the socket 820 of the busbar 805. Further, the socket opening 1412 provides enough space for the socket 820 to expand when the pin 155 is positioned within the socket 820. As noted previously, the plug opening 310 provides space for the pin 155 to enter the terminal block 100 on the outlet side 120. The plug opening 310 leads to the socket opening 1412 such that the conductor can pass through the plug opening 310 and into the socket opening 1412. In the illustrated embodiment, the plug opening 310 is smaller in width than the socket opening 1412. The socket 820 does not extend into the plug opening 310 in this arrangement. By positioning the socket 820 in the socket opening 1412, the plug 140 forms a buffer such that the pin 155 must travel a certain distance into the plug 140 before contacting the socket 820. In an alternate embodiment, the plug opening 310 is the same shape and width as the sidewall 1410. As should be appreciated, the socket 820 could couple to other types of conductors in addition and/or alternatively to the pin 155.
The socket 820 generally includes a panel 1415, leaves 1420, arches 1425, and lips 1430. The panel 1415 is positioned towards the spacer 1407 and extends from the intermediate portion 825 shown in
The socket 820 defines a pin opening 1435 between the leaves 1420. The pin opening 1435 provides a space for the pin 155 to be positioned when the terminal block 100 is coupled to the outlet 110 shown in
In the illustrated example, the busbar 805 defines a similar thickness across the entire busbar 805. In one embodiment, the busbar 805 is formed by cutting a piece of conductive material using a laser, router, press, stamp, and/or other device. The cut piece of material is then bent and/or folded into the shape of the busbar 805. In another example, the busbar 805 can be formed using a mold. In one embodiment, the spring 810 is formed using the same techniques as the busbar 805.
Referring to
As shown, the outlet 110 includes a frame 1710. The frame 1710 provides the structure of the outlet 110. The frame 1710 is generally made of a rigid material. When the terminal block 100 is coupled to the outlet 110, the frame 1710 is configured to support the terminal block 100. In one example, the frame 1710 is made of an insulative material, such as plastic. Further, the frame 1710 defines the shape of the plug receptacle 160 and provides structural support for the pins 155 within the plug receptacle 160. The frame 1710 includes a ridge 1715. When the terminal block 100 couples to the outlet 110, the ridge 1715 is configured to contact the clip 315 of the terminal block 100. The shape of the ridge 1715 allows a portion of the clip 315 to extend around the ridge 1715. The contact between the clip 315 and the ridge 1715 resists and/or limits movement of the terminal block 100 towards the wire side 115 when coupled to the outlet 110. As a result, the clip 315 and ridge 1715 strengthen the mechanical coupling between the terminal block 100 and outlet 110. In one embodiment, a user must lift the clip 315 away from the ridge 1715 before removing the terminal block 100 from the outlet 110.
The pins 155 each include a tip 1720. The tip 1720 extend on the pin 155 towards the wire side 115. The tip 1720 tapers from the rest of the pin 155 as the tip 1720 extends towards the wire side 115. By having a tapered shape, the tip 1720 is configured to easily push the arches 1425 apart as the tip 1720 moves towards the wire side 115. The tip 1720 therefore supports the pin 155 to easily insert in the socket 820. In one embodiment, the tip 1720 tapers fully to a single point on the end of the pin 155.
The frame 1710 further defines one or more fastener openings 1725. The fastener opening 1725 provides an opening for a screw, bolt, and/or another type of fastener to couple the outlet 110 to the wall 1705. In an alternate embodiment, the outlet 110 couples to the wall 1705 through a fastener that doesn't require the fastener opening 1725, such as a clip and/or an adhesive. In another embodiment, the outlet 110 is integrally formed with the wall 1705 and no fastener is needed.
Inside the plug 140, the pin 155 is positioned through the plug opening 310 and within the lip 1430. The socket 820 generally contacts the pin 155 at the arch 1425. In one embodiment, the pin 155 contacts other portions of the socket 820 when coupled, such as on the panel 1415, leaf 1420, and/or lip 1430. As noted previously, the arches 1425 are configured to compress the pin 155 between each other such as to secure the position of the pin 155 and to electrically connect to the pin 155. The secure mechanical connection between other components of the terminal block 100 and outlet 110 further ensures a reliable electrical connection between the socket 820 and pin 155. For example, positioning the plug 140 within the plug receptacle 160 and positioning the clip 315 around the ridge 1715 support the terminal block 100 to maintain the same position relative to the outlet 110. The terminal block 100 therefore enables a user to establish a reliable and strong electrical connection between the terminal block 100 and outlet 110 without needing tools.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
As should be appreciated, the variations shown in
As shown, the first terminal block 2505 includes a body 2520 and a plug 2525. The body 2520 is similar to the body 125 of the
Referring to
As shown in
The first terminal block 2505 further includes studs 2715. The studs 2715 extend from the body 2520 and are positioned to correspond to the positions of the divots 2615. The divots 2615 are configured to receive the studs 2715 when the first terminal block 2505 is coupled to another terminal block. The divots 2615 and studs 2715 further support the first terminal block 2505 and second terminal block 2510 to maintain the same position when coupled. Particularly, the divots 2615 and studs 2715 are configured to impede or prevent the first terminal block 2505 from sliding relative to the second terminal block 2510 in a direction that the slots 2602 and ribs 2702 are oriented. In this way, the divots 2615 and studs 2715 impede or prevent the ribs 2702 from sliding out of the slots 2602 and therefore impede the first terminal block 2505 against decoupling from the second terminal block 2510.
Referring to
In addition to the first slot 2805 and second slot 2810, the second terminal block 2510 further includes a first rib 2815 and a second rib 2820. As should be appreciated, the first terminal block 2505 and second terminal block 2510 can be coupled such that the first rib 2815 of the second terminal block 2510 is positioned within the first slot 2605 of the first terminal block 2505 and the second rib 2820 of the second terminal block 2510 is positioned within the second slot 2610 of the first terminal block 2505. Further, the first rib 2815 and second rib 2820 allow the second terminal block 2510 to couple to another pluggable terminal block while coupled to the first terminal block 2505. In an alternate embodiment, the first terminal block 2505 is coupled to the second terminal block 2510 through the ribs 2702 of the first terminal block 2505 and the slots 2602 of the second terminal block 2510, and the second terminal block 2510 is coupled to another pluggable terminal block through the ribs 2702 of the second terminal block 2510 and the slots 2602 of the other terminal block. In yet another alternate embodiment, one side of the first terminal block 2505 and/or second terminal block 2510 does not include slots 2602 and/or ribs 2702, and the first terminal block 2505 and/or second terminal block 2510 are not configured to couple to a terminal block on those sides. As should be appreciated, either side of the first terminal block 2505 and second terminal block 2510 can include one or more slots 2602, divots 2615, ribs 2702, and/or studs 2715. For example, the first terminal block 2505 can include one slot 2602 and one rib 2702 that couple to a corresponding rib 2702 and slot 2602 on one side of the second terminal block 2510. As should further be appreciated, the first terminal block 2505 and second terminal block 2510 can include a different number of slots 2602 and ribs 2702 and/or a different number of divots 2615 and studs 2715 than in the illustrated example.
The language used in the claims and specification is to only have its plain and ordinary meaning, except as explicitly defined below. The words in these definitions are to only have their plain and ordinary meaning. Such plain and ordinary meaning is inclusive of all consistent dictionary definitions from the most recently published Webster's dictionaries and Random House dictionaries. As used in the specification and claims, the following definitions apply to these terms and common variations thereof identified below.
“About” with reference to numerical values generally refers to plus or minus 10% of the stated value. For example, if the stated value is 4.375, then use of the term “about 4.375” generally means a range between 3.9375 and 4.8125.
“American Wire Gauge (AWG)” generally refers to a logarithmic stepped standardized wire gauge system referring to the diameters of round, solid, nonferrous, electrically conducting wire. Dimensions of the wires are given in ASTM standard B258. Increasing gauge numbers denote decreasing wire diameters. The AWG tables are for a single, solid, round conductor. The AWG of a stranded wire is determined by the cross-sectional area of the equivalent solid conductor. Because there are also small gaps between the strands, a stranded wire generally has a slightly larger overall diameter than a solid wire with the same AWG.
“And/Or” generally refers to a grammatical conjunction indicating that one or more of the cases it connects may occur. For instance, it can indicate that either or both of the two stated cases can occur. In general, “and/or” includes any combination of the listed collection. For example, “X, Y, and/or Z” encompasses: any one letter individually (e.g., {X}, {Y}, {Z}); any combination of two of the letters (e.g., {X, Y}, {X, Z}, {Y, Z}); and all three letters (e.g., {X, Y, Z}). Such combinations may include other unlisted elements as well.
“Cantilever Spring” generally refers to a spring fixed only at one end. In one non-limiting example, the cantilever spring is in the form of a flat spring that is anchored at one and the other end extends freely away from the anchored end.
“Cavity” generally refers to an empty space in a solid object. The cavity can be completely or partially surrounded by the solid object. For example, the cavity can be open to the surrounding environment.
“Channel” generally refers to a long, narrow groove in a surface of an object.
“Conductor” or “Conductive Material” generally refers to a material and/or object that allows the free flow of an electrical charge in one or more directions such that relatively significant electric currents will flow through the material under the influence of an electric field under normal operating conditions. By way of non-limiting examples, conductors include materials having low resistivity, such as most metals (e.g., copper, gold, aluminum, etc.), graphite, and conductive polymers.
“Contact” generally refers to a condition and/or state where at least two objects are physically touching. For example, contact requires at least one location where objects are directly or indirectly touching, with or without any other member(s) material in between.
“Dovetail Joint” generally refers to a mechanical connection between two objects that utilizes a pin protruding from one object and a slot defined by the other object. The pin can be shaped in many forms. For example, the pins can be shaped like a stud, rail, or rib, to name just a few examples. In some cases, a dovetail joint includes multiple pins and slots. Typically, but not always, the pins have trapezoid shape such that the wider portion of the pin is positioned further into the slot. The slot generally extends through at least one side of the object such as to allow the pin of the other object to slide into the slot through the open side. In some cases, the pin and slot are shaped such that as to stop one object from sliding relative the other object at a certain point in one direction. In one example, a dovetail joint includes additional structures to secure the connection between the two objects. For example, to maintain the relative positions of the joined objects, a dovetail joint can further utilize adhesive between the objects, a stud on one object that pops into a divot on another object, and/or a wedge inserted into the joint to name a few examples.
“Electrical Connection” generally refers a connection between two objects that allows a flow of electric current and/or electric signals.
“Euroblock” or “Phoenix Connector” generally refers to a type of extra-low voltage disconnectable or pluggable terminal block. “Euroblock” is short for “European-style terminal block.” The Euroblock is sometimes referred to as a “Phoenix Connector” which refers to a manufacturer of a brand of Euroblocks, Phoenix Contact, though other companies manufacture Euroblocks. Phoenix Contact sells Euroblock type terminals under the brand COMBICON®. The Euroblock is a solderless connector that clamps to wires and is able to be plugged into a matching socket in an electronic device. Euroblocks are for example commonly used for microphone signals, line level-audio signals, and control signals.
“Fastener” generally refers to a hardware device that mechanically joins or otherwise affixes two or more objects together. By way of non-limiting examples, the fastener can include bolts, dowels, nails, nuts, pegs, pins, rivets, screws, buttons, hook and loop fasteners, and snap fasteners, to just name a few.
“Female” generally refers to a structure that connects to another structure that includes hollow portions for receiving portions of a corresponding male connector.
“Frame” generally refers to a structure that forms part of an object and gives strength and/or shape to the object.
“Gap” generally refers to a space between objects, surfaces, or points.
“Hole” generally refers to a hollow portion through a solid body, wall or a surface. A hole may be any shape. For example, a hole may be, but is not limited to, circular, triangular, or rectangular. A hole may also have varying depths and may extend entirely through the solid body or surface or may extend through only one side of the solid body.
“Insulator” or “Insulative Material” generally refers to a material and/or object whose internal electric charges do not flow freely such that very little electric current will flow through the material under the influence of an electric field under normal operating conditions. By way of non-limiting examples, insulator materials include materials having high resistivity, such as glass, paper, ceramics, rubber, and plastics.
“Leaf Spring” generally refers to a type of spring made from one or more strips of elastic material. In one form, multiple strips of elastic material are laminated together to form the leaf spring, and in other forms, a single strip of elastic material, such metal and/or plastic, forms the leaf spring. The leaf springs can be curved or substantially straight. The leaf spring can further include a frame to which the ends of the strips are attached.
“Lever” generally refers to a simple machine including a beam, rod, or other structure pivoted at a fulcrum, such as a hinge. In one form, the lever is a rigid body capable of rotating on a point on itself. Levers can be generally categorized into three types of classes based on the location of fulcrum, load, and/or effort. In a class 1 type of lever, the fulcrum is located in the middle such that the effort is applied on one side of the fulcrum and the resistance or load on the other side. For class 1 type levers, the mechanical advantage may be greater than, less than, or equal to 1. Some non-limiting examples of class 1 type levers include seesaws, crowbars, and a pair of scissors. In a class 2 type of lever, which is sometimes referred to as a force multiplier lever, the resistance or load is located generally near the middle of the lever such that the effort is applied on one side of the resistance and the fulcrum is located on the other side. For class 2 type levers, the load arm is smaller than the effort arm, and the mechanical advantage is typically greater than 1. Some non-limiting examples of class 2 type levers include wheelbarrows, nutcrackers, bottle openers, and automobile brake pedals. In a class 3 type lever, which is sometimes referred to as a speed multiplier lever, the effort is generally located near the middle of the lever such that the resistance or load is on one side of the effort and the fulcrum is located on the other side. For class 3 type levers, the effort arm is smaller than the load arm, and the mechanical advantage is typically less than 1. Some non-limiting examples of class 3 type levers include a pair of tweezers and the human mandible.
“Male” generally refers to a structure that connects to another structure that includes portions that fill or fit inside the hollow portion of a corresponding female connector.
“Metallic” generally refers to a material that includes a metal, or is predominately (50% or more by weight) a metal. A metallic substance may be a single pure metal, an alloy of two or more metals, or any other suitable combination of metals. The term may be used to refer to materials that include nonmetallic substances. For example, a metallic cable may include one or more strands of wire that are predominately copper sheathed in a polymer or other nonconductive material.
“Opening” generally refers to a space or hole that something can pass through.
“Pin” or “Peg” generally refers to an elongated piece of material such as wood, metal, plastic and/or other material. Typically (but not always), the pin is tapered at one or both ends, but the pin can be shaped differently in other examples. For example, the ends of the pin can be flattened, widened, and/or bent in order to retain the pin. Pins can be used for any number of purposes. For example, the pin can be used in machines to couple components together or otherwise act as an interface between components. Pins can also be used for holding things together, hanging things on, and/or marking a position. Normally, but not always, the pin is a small, usually cylindrical piece. In certain cases, the pin is pointed and/or a tapered piece used to pin down, fasten things together, and/or designed to fit into holes. In other examples, the pin can have a polyhedral shape, such as with a rectangular or triangular cross-sectional shape, or an irregular shape.
“Plastic” generally refers to a group of materials, either synthetic, semi-synthetic, and/or naturally occurring, that may be shaped when soft and then hardened to retain the given shape. Plastics are polymers. A polymer is a substance made of many repeating units. Plastics are generally insulators.
“Polymer” generally refers to a material characterized by a molecular structure formed from the repetition of subunits bonded together. Examples include, but are not limited to, plastics or rubber.
“Socket” generally refers a device into which something fits in order to electrically and/or physically connect another electrical device to a circuit.
“Spring” generally refers to an elastic object that stores mechanical energy. The spring can include a resilient device that can be pressed, pulled, and/or twisted but returns to its former shape when released. The spring can be made from resilient or elastic material such as metal and/or plastic. The spring can counter or resist loads in many forms and apply force at constant or variable levels. For example, the spring can include a tension spring, compression spring, torsion spring, constant spring, and/or variable spring. The spring can take many forms such as by being a flat spring, a machined spring, and/or a serpentine spring. By way of nonlimiting examples, the springs can include various coil springs, pocket springs, Bonnell coils, offset coils, continuous coils, cantilever springs, volute springs, hairsprings, leaf springs, V-springs, gas springs, leaf springs, torsion springs, rubber bands, spring washers, and/or wave springs, to name just a few.
“Terminal” generally refers to a plug, socket or other connection (male, female, mixed, hermaphroditic, or otherwise) for mechanically and electrically connecting two or more wires or other conductors.
“Terminal Block” or “Connection Terminal” generally refers to a modular device that includes an insulated frame or housing that electrically connects and secures two or more electrically conductive devices or parts together such as wires. In one form, the terminal block includes a clamping component, such as for clamping to wires, and a conducting strip that electrically connects wires or other parts together. The clamping component and conducting strip are typically housed in the insulative housing. There are various types of terminal blocks including, but not limited to, single level pass-through terminal blocks, dual level terminal blocks, three level terminal blocks, pluggable type terminal blocks (e.g., Euroblocks), ground terminal blocks, fused connection terminal blocks, thermocouple terminal blocks, and switch type terminal blocks.
“Toolless” generally refers to an activity not having and/or requiring tools in order to perform the activity. Typically, the act can be performed manually by an individual.
“Wall” means here is structure that forms a solid surface. It may be a portion of a house, room, or otherwise. A wall may be planar or multiplanar and may be constructed of any of a variety of materials, including, but not limited to metal, concrete, wood, or plastic.
“Wire” generally refers to elongated electrically conductive metal. This includes an individual strand, multiple strands (twisted, braided and/or not), traces, strips and other cross-sectional geometries. In some examples, wire is uninsulated wire, such as bare wire without a coating and/or plating. In other examples, wire is insulated wire with a coating of non-conductive material surrounding the wire. In some examples, insulated wire is coated with plastic, fluoropolymer, and/or rubber materials.
It should be noted that the singular forms “a,” “an,” “the,” and the like as used in the description and/or the claims include the plural forms unless expressly discussed otherwise. For example, if the specification and/or claims refer to “a device” or “the device”, it includes one or more of such devices.
It should be noted that directional terms, such as “up,” “down,” “top,” “bottom,” “lateral,” “longitudinal,” “radial,” “circumferential,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” etc., are used herein solely for the convenience of the reader in order to aid in the reader's understanding of the illustrated embodiments, and it is not the intent that the use of these directional terms in any manner limit the described, illustrated, and/or claimed features to a specific direction and/or orientation.
While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes, equivalents, and modifications that come within the spirit of the inventions defined by the following claims are desired to be protected. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference and set forth in its entirety herein.
This application is a continuation-in-part of International Patent Application Number PCT/US2022/077738, filed Oct. 7, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference. International Patent Application Number PCT/US2022/077738, filed Oct. 7, 2022, is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/935,359, filed Sep. 26, 2022, which are hereby incorporated by reference. This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/935,359, filed Sep. 26, 2022, which is hereby incorporated by reference. International Patent Application Number PCT/US2022/077738, filed Oct. 7, 2022, claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63/268,825, filed Mar. 3, 2022, which are hereby incorporated by reference. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/935,359, filed Sep. 26, 2022, claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63/268,825, filed Mar. 3, 2022, which are hereby incorporated by reference.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63268825 | Mar 2022 | US | |
| 63268825 | Mar 2022 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 17935359 | Sep 2022 | US |
| Child | PCT/US22/77738 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | PCT/US22/77738 | Oct 2022 | US |
| Child | 18364132 | US | |
| Parent | 17935359 | Sep 2022 | US |
| Child | 17935359 | US |
