Patent Grant
10884027
Watthour meters measure electricity usage. Watthour meter boxes protect watthour meters from such things as the weather; human contact, for safety reasons; and tampering. Tampering may include prying the meter box open to bypass the meter to prevent electric usage from being recorded or illegally reinstating service after it has been disconnected.
It has become apparent in the electric revenue protection industry that one weak point in the watthour meter box assembly is the front flange 40 formed into the top of base 10. If the flange or lip 40 is pried upward, away from installed lid 30, not currently shown as installed, the lid may be slipped off base 10 from the top 25, bypassing the typical locking systems, not shown, that secure the door 30 to base 10. If there were a way to prevent such tampering or to strengthen lip 40, the assembly would be made more secure.
One way to strengthen the lip 40 is to increase the gauge or thickness of the metal from which the lip or entire base is made. A higher gauge metal would be more difficult to bend, leading to a more secure assembly. In the vast number of current installations however, installing higher gauge bases to achieve the desired increased security would likely be too expensive to implement on a large scale due to the considerable effort required to remove and replace each base. Additionally, increasing the material thickness would not deter or prevent tampering with the base flange. There is a desire in the industry to find a solution for the above described security issues without necessarily having to remove and replace watthour meter box bases. If there were a way to add structure or prevent access to the top flange or lip of a meter box base by designing a new lid, not shown, or by designing an additional structure, not shown, disposed between the top of the lid and base, the box assembly's overall security could be improved, old installations could be upgraded without necessarily removing and replacing the meter box base and overall losses to electric providers could be reduced by preventing electricity theft.
Several examples of patents which disclose attempts to solve some of the above problems are set forth as follows.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,872,847 to Fennell, entitled “Pilfer Proofing System for Electric Utility Meter Box,” is directed to a pilfer proofing system for electric meter boxes having a meter base box which carries a plug-in terminal block set and a meter box cover having an opening through which a plug-in meter passes to engage contact female or socket terminals in a terminal block set. A contact terminal block adaptor carrying insulating cages frictionally retained in the female socket terminal of the contact block set springs are included in the female socket terminals to assure continuous electrical contact and avoid hot spots. The meter box has a pair of lateral meter stops which are clamped between one end of an annular, cast aluminum ring and a pair of insulated, bifurcated clamp bars positioned behind the meter stops which, in turn, are secured to a common metal bar housed in a recess in the adaptor. The illustrate clamp bars have bifurcated ends which more evenly distributes the mechanical forces to the meter box by providing a plurality of distributed contact or load distribution points instead of one. An annular flange on the aluminum ring seals the edges of the existing opening in the meter cover thereby preventing surreptitious access to the interior of the meter box housing and, at the same time, clamping the rest of the meter cover securely to the box with the bifurcated clamp bars providing the plurality of distributed contact points; the teachings of which are incorporated by reference. This reference is incorporated by reference herein.
U.S. Pat. No. 4,404,521 to Fennell, entitled “Pilfer Proofing System for Electric Utility Meter Box,” sets forth a pilfer proofing system and method for electric meter boxes having a meter base box, which carries a plug-in terminal block set and a meter box cover having an opening through which a plug-in-meter passes to engage contact jaws or sockets the terminal block set. An anchoring bar is secured to the meter stops and a conventional meter locking collar is secured to the cover and the bridge of the locking collar is secured to the anchoring bar. Metal extension adaptors are secured to the meter blades for entering into the contact jaws or sockets of the terminal block set and a conventional locking ring is utilized to lock the meter in place on the added meter collar thereby providing a substantial obstacle to easy pilfering of electricity. A safety device constituted by a handle, a flexible insulating sheet and a set of nonconductive blades is inserted in the socket blades of the terminal block set and retained therein by friction covering up the hot or live terminals of the terminal block set with the flexible insulating sheet, and it is removed by grasping the handle and removing same. This reference is incorporated by reference herein.
U.S. Pat. No. 5,870,911 to DeWalch, entitled “Electric Meter Box Lock,” provides that a lock for meter boxes and similar enclosures includes an outer case with a central bore mounted on an electric meter box. Inside the bore are two extrusions of unequal length spaced 90 degrees apart. A sleeve having a deep bore is held in the case by a screw, and a spring assembly transmits motion from the screw to the sleeve. The sleeve includes a flange at its end with an arcuate cutout portion which spans both extrusions. The sleeve further includes several internal grooves for retaining a barrel type lock which prevents access to the screw. A heavy cover plate is welded to the top of the sleeve so that it overlays and retains the door of the meter box. To unlock the meter box lock, the barrel lock is removed to allow access to the screw. As the screw is unscrewed, the sleeve moves with the screw until the flange on the sleeve clears the shorter extrusion. The sleeve then rotates with the screw until the flange engages the longer extrusion. In this position, the cover plate no longer overlays the door, and the door can be opened. This reference is incorporated by reference herein.
There remains a need for a method and apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure that is readily installable—for example, without having to replace the utility service enclosure. There is a need for a device capable of securing a utility service enclosure, or for example a meter box securing device, that is adapted for reinforcing a lid-retaining member of the enclosure and which can be retained on a utility service enclosure so as to strengthen the enclosure to prevent tampering therewith. There is a further need for a securing device having a unitary configuration (or, for example, a configuration having multiple parts that are combinable and/or separable) and adapted to be disposed or retained between the top of, for example, a meter box lid and base to deter access to the top flange of a meter box base so as improve the overall security of the meter box or utility service enclosure.
Those of skill in the art will appreciate the present invention which addresses the above needs and other significant needs the solution to which are discussed hereinafter.
According to one embodiment of the invention, an apparatus for securing a box cover to a watt-hour meter box is provided, the apparatus including at least a unitary member incorporating a plurality of flange members, the member being adapted for securing a top portion of a watthour meter box lid to a portion of top front flange of a watthour meter box base.
According to a further embodiment of the invention, there is also provided a method for securing a box cover to a watt-hour meter box including at least disposing a unitary member incorporating a plurality of flange members between a portion of a top of a meter box lid and a portion of a top flange of a meter box base, the member being adapted for securing the portion of the top of the watthour meter box lid to the portion of the top front flange of the watthour meter box base.
Another example embodiment provides an apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure having a lid, a base and a lid-retaining member, the securing member having a structural member for reinforcing a lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member further includes at least a structural element adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via at least one fastener.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lid-retaining member includes at least a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is adapted to secure a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid to a portion of a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus a first portion of the securing member is shaped to engage a portion of a top flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus a second portion of the securing member is shaped to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the second portion substantially surrounds the portion of the top of the lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is combined with a utility service enclosure lid such that the lid and securing member are one integrated piece.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is combined with a utility service enclosure base such that the base and securing member are one integrated piece.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is made from steel.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the steel is hardened.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member is coated with a material having low electrical conductivity.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the material includes at least a powder coat.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the material includes at least rubber.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member further includes at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the third flange member is shaped to engage the top portion of a utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus a plurality of flange members, each flange member acting as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member includes at least a structural member having at least one of two different configurations, said first configuration being adapted for substantially surrounding the lid-retaining member, and said second configuration being adapted for engaging the lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus the securing member includes at least a structural member having at least one of two other different configurations, said third configuration being adapted for selectively contacting the lid-retaining member, and said fourth configuration being adapted for being disposed on the lid-retaining member.
An example embodiment provides a system for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure including at least: means for retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure including at least a lid, a base and a lid-retaining member; and means for reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member.
In another example embodiment of the system the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the system the means for retaining the securing member on the utility service enclosure includes at least a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system the means for reinforcing a lid-retaining member includes at least a structural element adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the system the means for retaining the securing member on the utility service enclosure includes at least at least one fastener.
In another example embodiment of the system the lid-retaining member includes at least a top front flange of a utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the system lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system the securing member is adapted to secure a portion of a top of a utility service enclosure lid to a portion of a top front flange of a utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the system the means for reinforcing a lid-retaining member is shaped to engage a portion of a top flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the system the means for retaining the securing member is shaped to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system the means for retaining the securing member substantially surrounds the portion of the top of the lid.
In another example embodiment of the system the securing member is combined with a utility service enclosure lid such that the lid and securing member are one integrated piece.
In another example embodiment of the system the securing member is combined with a utility service enclosure base such that the base and securing member are one integrated piece.
In another example embodiment of the system the securing member is made from steel.
In another example embodiment of the system the steel is hardened.
In another example embodiment of the system the securing member is coated with a material having low electrical conductivity.
In another example embodiment of the system the material includes at least a powder coat.
In another example embodiment of the system the material includes at least rubber.
In another example embodiment of the system the securing member further includes at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members.
In another example embodiment of the system the third flange member is shaped to engage the top portion of a utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the system a plurality of flange members, each flange member acting as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
An example embodiment provides a method for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure including at least: retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure including at least a lid, a base, and a lid-retaining member; and reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member.
In another example embodiment of the method the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the method the lid-retaining member includes at least a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the method the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is in functional cooperation with a portion of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is in functional cooperation with a portion of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is disposed by hand.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is disposed by welding.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is disposed via at least one fastener.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is disposed by adhesive.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is disposed using a hand held tool.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member is disposed using industrial tooling.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member includes at least a structural member having at least one of two different configurations, said first configuration being adapted for substantially surrounding the lid-retaining member, and said second configuration being adapted for engaging the lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the method the securing member includes at least a structural member having at least one of two other different configurations, said third configuration being adapted for selectively contacting the lid-retaining member, and said fourth configuration being adapted for being disposed on the lid-retaining member.
An example embodiment of a method for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least interengaging, or engaging, a reinforcing member between a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid and a structural portion of a utility service enclosure base, wherein the reinforcing member is adapted to secure the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base.
An example embodiment of a method for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least interengaging a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid and a structural portion of a utility service enclosure base, wherein the interengaging cooperatively secures the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base.
An example embodiment of a system for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least means for interengaging a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid and a structural portion of a utility service enclosure base, wherein the means for interengaging cooperatively secures the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base.
An example embodiment of a system for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least means for interengaging a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid and a structural portion of a utility service enclosure base, wherein the means for interengaging cooperatively inhibits relative deformation of the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base.
An example embodiment of a apparatus for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least a reinforcing member adapted to securely interengage a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid to a structural portion of the utility service enclosure base, wherein the reinforcing member cooperatively secures the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus for strengthening a utility service enclosure the reinforcing member further includes at least a receiving member, the receiving member being adapted to substantially surround a structural portion of the utility service enclosure base when the utility service enclosure lid is installed onto the utility service enclosure base.
An example embodiment of an apparatus for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least a reinforcing member formed to securely interengage a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid to a structural portion of the utility service enclosure base, wherein the reinforcing member is in functional cooperation with the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base to reinforce the utility service enclosure.
Another example embodiment of an apparatus for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least a reinforcing member formed to securely interengage a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid to a structural portion of the utility service enclosure base, wherein the reinforcing member is in functional cooperation with the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base to reinforce the utility service enclosure.
In an example embodiment, an apparatus is provided for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure having a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, the securing member adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid, the securing member including at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the a utility service enclosure lid; and wherein the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the lid-retaining member includes at least the portion of the top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the first and second flanges are adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In an example embodiment an system is provided for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the system including at least: a utility service enclosure includes at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; and a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the securing member includes at least a structural member being adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the securing member covers at least a portion of the lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the system, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member further includes at least a structural element including at least the first and second flanges, the structural element adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In an example embodiment an system is provided for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the system including at least: a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; means for retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure; and means for reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member, wherein at least a portion of the securing member is adapted to cover at least a portion of the lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the system, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member further includes at least a structural element including at least the first and second flanges, the structural element adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
Another example embodiment provides an apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure having a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, the securing member adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid, the securing member includes at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure lid; and wherein the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the lid-retaining member includes at least the portion of the top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the first and second flanges are adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the lid-retaining member includes at least a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the securing member is adapted to secure a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid to a portion of a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, a first portion of the securing member is shaped to engage a portion of a top flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, a first portion of the securing member is shaped to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, a second portion of the securing member substantially surrounds the portion of the top of the lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the securing member is combined with a utility service enclosure lid such that the lid and securing member are one integrated piece.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the securing member is made from steel.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the steel is hardened.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the fourth flange member lies in a plane at least substantially orthogonal with respect to the third flange member, and wherein the top portion of the utility service enclosure lid includes a least a top lip, the third flange member and the fourth flange member defining a slot and at least a portion of the top lip being releaseably captured within the slot whereby the securing member may be retained between the top front flange of the utility service enclosure base and the top lip of the utility service enclosure lid, and whereby when the securing member is subjected to prying forces, the fourth flange member and third flange member cooperate to pinch the top lip therebetween so as to counter the prying forces, and whereby the third flange member and fourth flange member cooperatively retain the securing member on the top lip of the utility service enclosure lid so as to aid in preventing the securing member from inadvertently falling into the interior of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the second, third, and fourth flange member are cooperatively attachable to the top lip of the utility service enclosure lid so as to aid in preventing the securing member from being inadvertently detached upon removal or installation of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the third flange member is in functional cooperation with the fourth flange member to inhibit deformation of structural member when subject to prying or other forces.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, each of the first, second and third flange members also acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
Another example embodiment provides a system for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the system including at least: a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; means for retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure; and means for reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member, wherein at least a portion of the securing member is adapted to cover at least a portion of the lid-retaining member.
Another example embodiment provides a system method for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the method including at least: providing a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure; and reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member, wherein at least a portion of the securing member is adapted to cover at least a portion of the lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the method, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the method, the lid-retaining member includes at least a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the method, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the method, the securing member is in functional cooperation with a portion of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the method, the securing member is in functional cooperation with a portion of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the method, the securing member is disposed by hand.
Another example embodiment provides a method for strengthening a utility service enclosure, the method including at least: providing a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; and interengaging a reinforcing member between a structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and a structural portion of the utility service enclosure base, wherein the reinforcing member is adapted to secure the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base, and wherein at least a portion of the reinforcing member is adapted to cover at least a portion of the lid-retaining member.
Another example embodiment provides an apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure having a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid, the securing member including at least a structural member being adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member, the structural member including at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure lid; and wherein the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the method, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the method, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the method, the securing member further includes at least a structural element including at least the first and second flanges, the structural element adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
Another example embodiment provides an apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure having a lid, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid, the securing member including at least a structural member being adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member, the structural member including at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure lid; and wherein the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
Another example embodiment provides a system for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the system including at least: a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; and a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the securing member including at least a structural member being adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the securing member covers at least a portion of the lid-retaining member.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member includes at least a first, second and third flange member, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure, and wherein the first and second flanges are adapted to receive the lid-retaining member of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the system, the fourth flange member lies in a plane at least substantially orthogonal with respect to the third flange member, and wherein the top portion of the utility service enclosure lid includes at least a top lip, the third flange member and the fourth flange member defining a slot and at least a portion of the top lip being releaseably captured within the slot whereby the securing member may he retained between the lid-retaining member of the utility service enclosure base and the top lip of the utility service enclosure lid, and whereby when the securing member is subjected to prying forces, the fourth flange member and third flange member cooperate to pinch the top lip therebetween so as to counter the prying forces, and whereby the third flange member and fourth flange member cooperatively retain the securing member on the top lip of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member is adapted to secure a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid to a portion of the lid-retaining member of the utility service enclosure base.
In another example embodiment of the system, the securing member is combined with a utility service enclosure lid such that the lid and securing member are one integrated piece.
Another example embodiment provides a system for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the system including at least: a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the securing member including at least a structural member being adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member; and wherein the structural member includes at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure lid.
Another example embodiment provides a system for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the system including at least: a utility service enclosure including at least a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter therethrough, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the securing member including at least a structural member being adapted to reinforce the lid-retaining member; wherein the structural member includes at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure lid; and wherein the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
Another example embodiment provides an apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure, the apparatus including at least: a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure having a lid with an aperture for receiving a meter, a base and a lid-retaining member, wherein at least a portion of the lid-retaining member covers at least part of the utility service enclosure lid; the securing member including at least a first, second and third flange member, wherein the first and second flange members are generally parallel to each other, and wherein the third flange member is generally perpendicular to the first and the second flange members, and wherein the third flange member is shaped to engage a top portion of the utility service enclosure lid; and wherein the securing member further includes at least a fourth flange member wherein the fourth member acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion or a top of the utility service enclosure.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of the top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment of the apparatus, the first and second flanges are adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base.
The content and disclosure of each of the following applications/publications to the extent permitted are specifically hereby incorporated by reference: application Ser. No. 11/920,297, which is the national stage of International Application No. PCT/US2006/018335, filed May 11, 2006, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/624,700, filed on Nov. 3, 2004 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/679,863, filed on May 12, 2005.
All written material, figures, and other disclosure in each of the above-referenced applications in their entirety are hereby incorporated by reference.
Turning now to
In various embodiments of the present invention, bracket securing flange 160 acts as an integrated opposed tension-receiving member. In these embodiments, securing flange 160 is sized such that when a prying force 120 is applied, generally as shown, to flange segment 145, securing flange 160 distributes some of the force 120 into door 70, requiring the force 120 to overcome not only the opposing forces required to bend lip 100 and flange segments 140 and 145 but also the forces required to deform door 70 sufficiently to disengage security bracket 60 from the door 70, before the door 70 can be removed from the top of the box base.
In various embodiments of the present invention, each flange segment 140, 145, 150, and 160 is made from separate and distinct materials and combined into a unitary member incorporating the plurality of flanges. In various other embodiments of the present invention, flange segments 140, 145, 150 and 160 are interchangeably made from various materials and combined into a unitary member incorporating the plurality of flanges. In another embodiment, flange segments 140, 145, 150, and 160 are made from the same material and combined into a unitary member incorporating the plurality of flanges. All known methods, without limitation, of combining the flange segments described in the various embodiments, herein described, where flange segments are separate pieces, including but not limited to welding, bonding, and mechanical connection are herein incorporated by reference. Welding, bonding, and mechanical connection being only illustrative examples meant as a simple, partial list of all known joining techniques known to those with skill in the art. In another embodiment, flange segments 140, 145, 150, and 160 are made from the same piece of material, shaped into a unitary member incorporating the plurality of flanges.
Turning now to
Turning to
With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the various flange segments, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the figures and described in this specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.
In various embodiments of the present invention, bracket 60 from
Turning now to
It should also be noted that even though security flange 60 in
In various embodiments of the present invention, security flanges are made from materials that have little or no electrical conductivity. In these embodiments, materials are chosen so that if a security flange comes into contact with electric power lines such as those typically found inside an installed watthour meter box, the chances of an electrical short circuit will be reduced, along with the possible human and physical damage.
In various other embodiments, the security flange is manufacture from materials that may be electrically conductive. In some embodiments of the present invention, the security flange is made from steel. In other embodiments, the steel is case hardened to frustrate a thief attempting to saw off the front flange of the security flange, such as, for example, flange segment 220 in
Techniques for coating material including powder coating and rubber coating are well known in the art. How the brackets in the present invention's various embodiments may be coated is not important to the present invention and no limitations should be inferred from a particular technique not being mentioned. If new technology is developed for coating material, the new technique or techniques shall be considered equivalent to the techniques currently known in the art and herein incorporated. The only important aspect of the coating is that it limit electric conductivity so as to improve the safe handling and installation of a given security bracket, not the details of the coating technique itself.
Unitary member or “security flange” installation is performed in numerous ways. For example, in one embodiment, shown in
In
As the lid 70 is installed onto the base 80, rear retaining flange 505 becomes trapped between meter box base flange 511 and the meter box lid 70; simultaneously, the meter top front flange is received into the void 507 defined by the security flange 501 and the rear retaining flange 505. When the lid is fully installed, security flange 501 surrounds a portion of the base flange 511. If there is an attempt to pry the security member 500 from the lid 70, flanges 502, 503, and 504 apply reaction forces to a portion of the lid side flange 510, and concurrently, the rear retaining flange 505 is adapted to apply reaction forces to the base flange 511, thus aiding in the retention of security member 500. This embodiment is not limited to the illustrations shown; the security member may be constructed from a single plate that is formed, or multiple pieces that are joined together.
Another example embodiment not shown provides an apparatus for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure. Such a utility service enclosure may be used in the electric, gas, water, cable, TV utility industries or in other utility industries. The apparatus includes a securing member adapted to be retained on the utility service enclosure, with the utility service enclosure having a lid, a base and a lid-retaining member and the securing member having a structural member for reinforcing a lid-retaining member. In one example embodiment, the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure. In one other example embodiment, the securing member is retained on the utility service enclosure via a retaining flange adapted to engage a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid. In another example embodiment, the securing member further includes at least a structural element adapted to receive a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base. Another example embodiment of the apparatus provides the lid-retaining member includes at least a top front flange of the utility service enclosure base while another example embodiment provides the lid-retaining member includes at least a portion of a top of the utility service enclosure lid.
In another example embodiment all structures known to those with skill in the art which could serve as lid-retaining members are herein incorporated by reference.
Another example embodiment provides a method for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure including retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure including at least a lid, a base, and a lid-retaining member; and reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member.
Another example embodiment provides a system for deterring forced entry into a utility service enclosure including at least: means for retaining a securing member on the utility service enclosure, the utility service enclosure including at least a lid, a base and a lid-retaining member; and means for reinforcing the lid-retaining member with the securing member.
In another example embodiment shown in
In an example embodiment,
Another example embodiment of a apparatus for strengthening a utility service enclosure includes at least a reinforcing member adapted to securely interengage a structural portion of a utility service enclosure lid to a structural portion of the utility service enclosure base, wherein the reinforcing member cooperatively secures the structural portion of the utility service enclosure lid and the structural portion of the utility service enclosure base.
Another example embodiment includes a securing member having a structural element which reinforces the lid-retaining member by engaging, selectively contacting or substantially surrounding the lid-retaining member or which is adapted for being disposed on the lid-retaining member.
In various other embodiments, not shown, the given security flange is disposed onto the lid, or alternatively around the base flange, prior to door installation. The door is then installed onto the box base, trapping the security flange between the door and base flange.
In other embodiments, the security flange or unitary member is installed onto the box base using fasteners attached to or through the base's top. The list of possible fasteners used to secure a given member to a box base is so extensive as to not be practical to list. It would be obvious to those of skill in the art that any number of fasteners in various embodiments might be used without departing from the spirit of the current invention.
In other embodiments, a member is disposed onto the top of a given box base using hand held tools to hold the member in place while the lid is installed. In other embodiments, the member is welded to the op of the box base. In other embodiments, the member is bonded to the top of the box base using any one of a plethora of various adhesives well known in the adhesives art. In other embodiments, the member is installed onto the top of the box base during the box base manufacturing process using industrial tooling, this box base being used for new meter box assembly installations or as a replacement to old meter box bases. Is should be noted that methods to secure a member during base manufacturing could included all attachment methods previously mentioned as well as any number of other methods available in the manufacturing arts.
The present invention provides several advantages over the prior art. The present invention provides additional security to a watthour meter box. The present invention provides a watthour meter security device that encases and protects the top front flange of a watthour meter box base. The present invention provides a watthour meter security device that can be installed without any tools. Several embodiments of the present invention provide a watthour meter security device that will not unintentionally become dislodged from certain types of watthour meter box lids. The present invention provides a watthour meter security device that will not interfere with the normal operation of the lid. The present invention provides a watthour meter security device that may be incorporated into a currently installed watthour meter box assembly without requiring the removal and replacement of the existing base.
The foregoing specification is provided for illustrative purposes only, and is not intended to describe all possible aspects of the present invention. Moreover, while the invention has been shown and described in detail with respect to several exemplary embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that changes to the description, and various other modifications, omissions and additions may also be made without departing from either the spirit or scope thereof.
This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 11/920,297, now abandoned which is the national stage of International Application No. PCT/US2006/018335, filed May 11, 2006, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/624,700, filed on Nov. 3, 2004 and U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/679,863, filed on May 12, 2005. All written material, figures, and other disclosure in each of the above-referenced applications in their entirety are hereby incorporated by reference.
| Number | Name | Date | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1728271 | Gustin | Sep 1929 | A |
| 2113744 | Pixley et al. | Apr 1938 | A |
| 2117945 | Cooper | May 1938 | A |
| 2118607 | Johnson | May 1938 | A |
| 2182603 | Walker | Dec 1939 | A |
| 2329349 | Johansson | Sep 1943 | A |
| 2651008 | Johansson | Sep 1953 | A |
| 2742173 | Janson | Apr 1956 | A |
| 2822417 | Mathison | Feb 1958 | A |
| 2870238 | Davis | Jan 1959 | A |
| 2907927 | Fisher | Oct 1959 | A |
| 2907928 | Rutledge | Oct 1959 | A |
| 2991398 | Strong | Jul 1961 | A |
| 3123744 | Fisher | Mar 1964 | A |
| 3142001 | Spencer et al. | Jul 1964 | A |
| 3307081 | Sloop | Feb 1967 | A |
| 3361283 | Nicholson | Jan 1968 | A |
| 3591835 | Sloop | Jul 1971 | A |
| 4031722 | Michelman | Jun 1977 | A |
| 4068288 | Finnen | Jan 1978 | A |
| 4080811 | Nielsen, Jr. | Mar 1978 | A |
| 4096718 | Michelman | Jun 1978 | A |
| 4120182 | Michelman | Oct 1978 | A |
| 4144729 | Nielsen, Jr. | Mar 1979 | A |
| 4152910 | Swisher | May 1979 | A |
| 4254647 | Finck, Jr. | Mar 1981 | A |
| 4404521 | Fennell | Sep 1983 | A |
| 4747016 | Sloop, Sr. | May 1988 | A |
| 4787530 | Edwards | Nov 1988 | A |
| 5730309 | Jiradejnunt et al. | Mar 1998 | A |
| 5870911 | DeWalch | Feb 1999 | A |
| 5959243 | Thiel | Sep 1999 | A |
| 5979691 | Von Holdt | Nov 1999 | A |
| 6209172 | Bradley | Apr 2001 | B1 |
| 6421229 | Campbell et al. | Jul 2002 | B1 |
| 6534735 | Czarnecki | Mar 2003 | B1 |
| 6580030 | Horne | Jun 2003 | B1 |
| 6763691 | Rafferty | Jul 2004 | B1 |
| 6975504 | Robinson et al. | Dec 2005 | B2 |
| 7177148 | Nakata et al. | Feb 2007 | B2 |
| 7197905 | Ely et al. | Apr 2007 | B2 |
| 20030192354 | DeWalch | Oct 2003 | A1 |
| 20050044907 | Agbay | Mar 2005 | A1 |
| 20050178174 | Ely | Aug 2005 | A1 |
| 20060012947 | Nakata et al. | Jan 2006 | A1 |
| 20060265853 | Povolny | Nov 2006 | A1 |
| Number | Date | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 8908588 | Sep 1989 | WO |
| WO 2004002205 | Dec 2003 | WO |
| 200624540 | Nov 2006 | WO |
| Entry |
|---|
| Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) Office Action per Letter dated Dec. 6, 2010 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (Seven (7) Pages). |
| Applicant's e-mail and attached MIIP Office Action Response dated Dec. 17, 2010 (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (Nine (9) Pages). |
| Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) Office Action Letter dated Dec. 21, 2010 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (One (1) Page). |
| Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) Office Action per Letter dated Jun. 9, 2011 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (Six (6) Pages). |
| Applicant's e-mail and attached MIIP Office Action Response dated Aug. 12, 2011 (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (Ten (10) Pages). |
| Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) Office Action Letter dated Aug. 25, 2011 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (One (1) Page). |
| Notice of Allowance from the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) per e-mail dated Sep. 29, 2011 from Foreign Counsel (Three (3) Pages). |
| Notice of Letters Patent from the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) per Letter dated Aug. 6, 2012 from Foreign Counsel (One (1) Page). |
| E-mail dated Jan. 6, 2012 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) regarding Divisional Application filing (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 and Divisional Application MX/A/2007/000497)) (Fourteen (14) Pages). |
| E-mail dated Feb. 5, 2014 and attached Letters dated Jan. 5, 2014 and Nov. 1, 2013 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) regarding Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) Office Action Letter (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/000497) (Eight (8) Pages). |
| Applicant's e-mail and attached MIIP Office Action Response dated Aug. 12, 2011 (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/014215) (Twenty Three (23) Pages). |
| E-mail dated Feb. 18, 2014 and attached Letter dated Feb. 18, 2014 from Foreign Counsel (Becerril, Coca & Becerril) regarding filing Office Action Response (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2007/000497) (Three (3) Pages). |
| Notice of Allowance from the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (MIIP) (for related Mexican Application No. MX/A/2012/000497) per e-mail dated Mar. 14, 2014 from Foreign Counsel (2 Pages). |
| U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339, filed Nov. 2, 2005 (2 pages). |
| U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975, filed Sep. 25, 2008 (4 pages). |
| WIPO—PCT International Patent Application No. PCT/US2006/018335 filed May 11, 2006 (1 page). |
| U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223, filed Nov. 11, 2007 (3 pages). |
| U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,297, filed Nov. 13, 2007 (3 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Sep. 6, 2010 regarding Mexican Patent Office Office Action dated Jul. 26, 2010 in connection with Mexican Patent Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 (7 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Applicant dated Dec. 17, 2010 in response to original E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Sep. 6, 2010 regarding Mexican Patent Office Office Action dated Jul. 26, 2010 in connection with Mexican Patent Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 (11 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated May 11, 2011 regarding Mexican Patent Office Office Action dated Mar. 29, 2011 in connection with Mexican Patent Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 (10 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Applicant dated Aug. 12, 2011 in response to original E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated May 11, 2011 regarding Mexican Patent Office Office Action dated Mar. 29, 2011 in connection with Mexican Patent Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 (10 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Sep. 29, 2011 regarding Notice of Allowance regarding Mexican Patent Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 (3 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Jan. 10, 2012 regarding Mexican Patent Divisional Application No. MX/A/2012/000497 filed on Jan. 9, 2012 claiming priority to parent Mexican Patent Application No. MX/A/2007/014215 (3 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Nov. 1, 2013 regarding the first Mexican Patent Office Office Action in connection with Mexican Patent Divisional Application No. MX/a/2012/000497 (7 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Applicant dated Feb. 11.2014 in response to original E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Nov. 1, 2013 regarding the first Mexican Patent Office Office Action in connection with Mexican Patent Divisional Application No. MX/a/2012/000497 (35 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Applicant dated Feb. 13, 2014 in response to original E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Nov. 1, 2013 regarding the first Mexican Patent Office Office Action in connection with Mexican Patent Divisional Application No. MX/a/2012/000497 (19 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Applicant dated Feb. 14, 2014 in response to original E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Nov. 1, 2013 regarding the first Mexican Patent Office Office Action in connection with Mexican Patent Divisional Application No. MX/a/2012/000497 (23 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Foreign Counsel dated Mar. 14, 2014 regarding Notice of Allowance regarding Mexican Patent Divisional Application No. MX/a/2012/000497 (2 pages). |
| International Search Report and Written Opinion dated Jun. 5, 2008 for PCT International Application No. PCT/US06/18335 filed May 11, 2006 (5 pages). |
| International Preliminary Report on Patentability dated Mar. 17, 2009 for PCT International Application No. PCT/US06/18335 filed May 11, 2006 (5 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from PATENTEC Search Firm dated Sep. 13, 2006 in connection with U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339 (3 pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Apr. 1, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (7 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Rejection with Amendment dated Oct. 1, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (17 pages). |
| Notice of Allowance dated Nov. 5, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (7 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with IDS and Letter Requesting Suspension dated Feb. 5, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (151 pages). |
| Notice of Allowance dated May 11, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (15 pages). |
| Applicant's Letter Requesting Suspension dated Aug. 3, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (20 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with IDS and Letter Requesting Suspension dated Aug. 11, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (30 pages). |
| Notice of Allowance dated Nov. 23, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 13/843,472) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with IDS including Amendment with Letter Requesting Suspension dated Feb. 23, 2017 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (80 pages). |
| Non-final Rejection dated Jun. 27, 2017 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (14 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Rejection with Amendment dated Apr. 25, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (40 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Jun. 14, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Rejection with RCE and Amendment including Letter Requesting Suspension dated Dec. 14, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (21 pages). |
| Supplemental Response dated Dec. 14, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (4 pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Jun. 5, 2019 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (69 pages). |
| Applicant's Summary of Interview with Examiner dated Jun. 13, 2019 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 13/843,472) (2 pages). |
| Bibliographic Data Sheet in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 13/843,472) (5 pages). |
| Bibliographic Data Sheet in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 11/920,223) (5 pages). |
| Restriction dated Jul. 2, 2010 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (10 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Election to Restriction dated Dec. 3, 2012 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (12 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-final Rejection dated Mar. 27, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (28 pages). |
| Applicant's Amendment dated Sep. 27, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (27 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Dec. 31, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (19 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with Amendment dated Jun. 30, 2014 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (27 pages). |
| References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Rejection dated Jul. 21, 2014 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (20 pages). |
| Applicant's Amendment dated Jan. 21, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 11/920,223) (24 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated May 14, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (17 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with Amendment dated Oct. 14, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (30 pages). |
| References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Rejection dated Nov. 13, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (16 pages). |
| Applicant's Amendment dated May 13, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (21 pages). |
| References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Final Rejection dated Aug. 24, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (18 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with Amendment dated Feb. 24, 2017 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (23 pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Nov. 9, 2017 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (18 pages). |
| Applicant's Amendment dated May 9, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (26 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Jun. 22, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (18 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with Amendment dated Dec. 21, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (30 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Rejection dated Jun. 12, 2019 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,223) (18 pages). |
| Bibliographic Data Sheet dated Sep. 26, 2019in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (6 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Notice of Non-Final Rejection dated Mar. 12, 2010 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Office Action with Amendment dated Sep. 13, 2010 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (20 pages). |
| References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Final Rejection dated Dec. 10, 2010 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (8 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final with RCE and Amendment submitted dated Jun. 10, 2011 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (21 pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Jun. 27, 2011 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 12/284,975) (9 pages). |
| Letter withdrawing/Vacating office Action dated Oct. 31, 2011 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (2 pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Nov. 9, 2011 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Office Action with Amendment dated May 9, 2012 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (20 pages). |
| Applicant initiated Interview Summary dated May 23, 2012 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (3 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Final Office Action dated Jul. 16, 2012 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (11 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Office Action with RCE and Amendment dated Jan. 16, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (21 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Office Action dated Feb. 4, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (11 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Office Action with Amendment dated Aug. 5, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (16 pages). |
| Applicant's Initiated Interview Summary dated Aug. 15, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 12/284,975) (3 pages). |
| Applicant's Summary of Interview with Examiner dated Sep. 16, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (7 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Oct. 31, 2013 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (7 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Rejection with RCE and Amendment dated Apr. 30, 2014 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (26 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Rejection dated May 6, 2014 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Rejection with Amendment dated May 4, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (15 pages). |
| Response and Statement regarding Interview Summary dated Dec. 3, 2014 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (23 pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Final Rejection dated Jul. 8, 2015 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (10 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Rejection with RCE and Amendment dated Jan. 8, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No, 12/284,975) (28 pages). |
| Notice of Allowance dated Aug. 24, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (5 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE including IDS dated Nov. 22, 2016 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (160 pages). |
| Notice of Allowance dated Oct. 13, 2017 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (32 pages. |
| Applicant's Summary of Interview with Examiner dated Oct. 30, 2017 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (5 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE and IDS dated Jan. 16, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (44 pages). |
| Notice of Allowance dated Jul. 3, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's RCE with IDS including Amendment dated Oct. 3, 2018 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (79 pages). |
| Ex Parte Quayle Action dated May 23, 2019 in connection with related (U.S. Appl. No. 12/284,975) (10 pages). |
| E-mail/Letter from Patentec including report dated Jun. 6, 2006 (2 pages). |
| Bibliographic Data Sheet dated Sep. 26, 2019 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Requirement for Restriction dated Jul. 11, 2012, in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Election/Restriction dated Nov. 13, 2012 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Office Action dated Mar. 29, 2013 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Office Action with Amendments dated Sep. 30, 2013 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Final Rejection dated Dec. 31, 2013 iin connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Rejection with Amendment and RCE dated Jun. 30, 2014, in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Office Action dated Jul. 18, 2014 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Response to Non-Final Office Action dated Jan. 20, 2015 with Amendments in connection with related U.S. Appl. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Notice of References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Rejection dated May 13, 2015 in connection with U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Rejection with Amendment dated Oct. 13, 2015 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Final Rejection dated Jan. 21, 2016 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Rejection with Amendment and RCE dated Jul. 16, 2016 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Jul. 27, 2016 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Letter restarting period for Response dated Oct. 21, 2016 in connection with U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846 ( pages) |
| Response Non-Final Rejection dated Mar. 21, 2017 with Amendment iin connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Jun. 20, 2017 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to after Final Office Action with Amendment, RCE and Suspension dated Apr. 27, 2018 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| References Cited (Patents/Applications/Other) by Examiner and Non-Final Rejection dated Jul. 12. 2018 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Rejection with Amendment dated Jan. 14, 2019 in connection with related U.S. Appl. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Apr. 29, 2019 n connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Applicant Summary of Interview with Examiner dated Jun. 13, 2019 in connection with related U.S. Appl. 13/009,846)) ( pages). |
| Notice of Non-Final Rejection dated Jul. 24, 2007 in connection with related (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339) (9 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-Final Office Action with Amendment dated Jan. 24, 2008 (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339) (19 pages). |
| Examiner Interview Summary Records dated Feb. 6, 2008 in connection with related (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339) (2 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Mar. 25, 2008,in connection with related (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339)) (8 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Final Rejection with Amendment dated Sep. 25, 2008 in connection with related (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339 (12 pages). |
| Advisory Action dated Oct. 14, 2008 in connection with related (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339 (21 pages). |
| Abandonment dated May 13, 2009 in connection with related (D31181US) U.S. Appl. No. 11/265,339 (28 pages). |
| Non-Final Rejection dated Jul. 16, 2010 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,297 (10 pages). |
| Applicant's Response to Non-final Rejection with Amendment dated Jan. 18, 2011 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,297 (46 pages). |
| Final Rejection dated Mar. 8, 2011 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,297) (23 pages). |
| Abandonment dated Oct. 28, 2011 in connection with related U.S. Appl. No. 11/920,297) (2 pages). |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20120140381 A1 | Jun 2012 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60624700 | Nov 2004 | US | |
| 60679863 | May 2005 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 11920297 | US | |
| Child | 13228436 | US |
