U.S. patent application number 10/844430 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-17 for double pull led outlet switch.
Invention is credited to Leo, Robert J..
Application Number | 20050252753 10/844430 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35308355 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050252753 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Leo, Robert J. |
November 17, 2005 |
Double pull LED outlet switch
Abstract
A double pull LED outlet switch includes a power outlet
receptacle with upper and lower receptacles, and a double pull
double throw (DPDT) switch. The DPDT switch is positionable between
an UNSWITCHED position and a SWITCHED position. The DPDT switch
enables a user to provide either continuous power or switched power
to at least the lower receptacle outlet double pull LED outlet
switch. The double pull LED outlet switch may be configured as
either an independent or a dual double pull LED outlet switch. Both
the independent and dual outlet double pull LED outlet switches are
most efficiently utilized if installed during construction. A post
construction double pull LED outlet switch receptacle may be
realized in two types of configurations. One configuration is a
master unit and one configuration is a slave unit.
Inventors: |
Leo, Robert J.; (Bradenton,
FL) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Richard C. Litman
LITMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD.
P.O. Box 15035
Arlington
VA
22215
US
|
Family ID: |
35308355 |
Appl. No.: |
10/844430 |
Filed: |
May 13, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
200/51.11 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H01R 25/006 20130101;
H01R 13/707 20130101; H01R 24/78 20130101; H01R 2103/00 20130101;
H01R 13/7175 20130101; H01R 13/652 20130101; H01R 13/717
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
200/051.11 |
International
Class: |
H01R 024/00 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A double pull light emitting diode (LED) outlet switch
comprising: a power outlet receptacle including an upper receptacle
outlet and a lower receptacle outlet; and a double pull double
throw (DPDT) switch positionable between an UNSWITCHED position and
a SWITCHED position; wherein the DPDT switch is configured to
enable a user to provide either continuous power or switched power
to at least the lower receptacle outlet of the double pull LED
outlet switch.
2. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 1, further
comprising LED circuitry including at least one LED to provide a
visual indication as to whether any receptacle outlet in the double
pull LED outlet switch is configured to provide switched power.
3. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 2, further
comprising plural LEDs to provide visual indications in multiple
colors.
4. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 1,
further comprising at least one lug configured to interconnect the
double pull LED outlet switch with a power source.
5. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 4, wherein
said at least one lug comprises a pair of high voltage power lugs
and a pair of low voltage power lugs.
6. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 1, wherein
the double pull LED outlet switch is configured as a master
unit.
7. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 1, wherein
the double pull LED outlet switch is configured as a slave
unit.
8. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 1, in
combination with at least one remote wall switch, wherein the at
least one remote wall switch is electrically interconnected with a
power source, and is electrically interconnected with the double
pull LED outlet switch.
9. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 1, in
combination with at least one remote wall switch and at least one
additional double pull LED outlet switch, wherein said at least one
remote wall switch and said at least one additional double pull LED
outlet switch are each electrically interconnected with a power
source, and are electrically interconnected with the double pull
LED outlet switch.
10. The double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 9, wherein
said at least one remote wall switch comprises at least two remote
wall switches.
11. A dual double pull light emitting diode (LED) outlet switch
comprising: a power outlet receptacle including an upper receptacle
outlet and a lower receptacle outlet; a first DPDT switch
associated with the lower receptacle outlet, the first DPDT switch
being positionable between an UNSWITCHED position and a SWITCHED
position, and being configured to enable a user to provide either
continuous power or switched power to the lower receptacle outlet
double pull LED outlet switch; and a second DPDT switch associated
with the upper receptacle outlet, the second DPDT switch being
positionable between an UNSWITCHED position and a SWITCHED
position, and being configured to enable a user to provide either
continuous power or switched power to the upper receptacle outlet
double pull LED outlet switch.
12. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
further comprising LED circuitry including a first LED to provide a
visual indication as to whether the first receptacle outlet in the
dual double pull LED outlet switch is configured to provide
switched power, and a second LED to provide a visual indication as
to whether the second receptacle outlet in the dual double pull LED
outlet switch is configured to provide switched power.
13. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 12,
wherein the first and second LEDs provide visual indications in
multiple colors.
14. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
further comprising at least one lug configured to interconnect the
dual double pull LED outlet switch with a power source.
15. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
wherein said at least one lug comprises a pair of high voltage
power lugs and a pair of low voltage power lugs.
16. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
wherein the double pull LED outlet switch is configured as a master
unit.
17. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
wherein the double pull LED outlet switch is configured as a slave
unit.
18. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
in combination with at least one remote wall switch, wherein the
remote wall switch is electrically interconnected with a power
source, and is electrically interconnected-with the double pull LED
outlet switch.
19. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 11,
in combination with at least one remote wall switch and at least
one additional dual double pull LED outlet switch, wherein said at
least one remote wall switch and said at least one additional dual
double pull LED outlet switch are each electrically interconnected
with a power source, and are electrically interconnected with the
dual double pull LED outlet switch.
20. The dual double pull LED outlet switch according to claim 19,
wherein said at least one remote wall switch comprises at least two
remote wall switches.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention generally relates to power outlet
receptacles and, more particularly, to a double pull light emitting
diode (LED) outlet switch for providing flexible control of power
outlet receptacles.
[0003] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0004] Switched duplex power receptacles have been in use for
years. Typically, a switched duplex power outlet receptacle is a
standard duplex outlet receptacle with the upper and lower outlets
isolated by physically breaking the tab between the upper and lower
outlets on the power or ungrounded conductor terminal of the
receptacle.
[0005] The main problem with conventional duplex power outlet
receptacles is their lack of flexibility. After initial
installation of a duplex power outlet receptacle, the function of
the receptacle becomes fixed and rigid. Another problem with
conventional duplex power outlet receptacles is that a duplex power
outlet receptacle configured for control by a remote wall switch is
permanently dedicated to function in a fixed single location.
Another problem with conventional duplex power outlet receptacles
is, when a duplex power outlet receptacle is switched, its
dedicated function and location is often under or poorly utilized
because the position of the receptacle is often not in a convenient
or functional location. This problem is most aptly demonstrated
when the remote wall switch inadvertently removes the power from an
appliance not intended to be turned off (e.g., a computer,
television, phone charger, light, etc., cannot be positioned where
it is desired).
[0006] While these devices may be suitable for the particular
purpose to which they address, they are not suitable for providing
flexible control of switched duplex power outlet receptacles.
Therefore, a need exists for a double pull LED outlet switch that
provides flexible control of switched duplex power outlet
receptacles.
[0007] The related art is represented by the following references
of interest.
[0008] U.S. patent application Publication No. 2001/0030470 A1,
published on Oct. 18, 2001 for William H. Waugh et al., describes
an appliance switching system that is used in combination with a
duplex electric outlet having a first receptacle that is constantly
energized and a second receptacle that is selectively energized and
de-energized by operation of a wall switch. The Waugh et al.
application does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch
according to the claimed invention.
[0009] U.S. patent application Publication No. 2002/0180367 A1,
published on Dec. 5, 2002 for James D. Logan, describes a control
circuit for operating a lamp or other electrically operated device
using a conventional wall socket outlet that is selectively
energized under the control of a conventional wall mounted switch.
The Logan application does not suggest a double pull LED outlet
switch according to the claimed invention.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 3,496,379, issued on Feb. 17, 1970 for George
E. Platzer, Jr., describes electrical circuitry that enables the
energization and de-energization of a remotely situated electrical
load from a point that is remote from the electrical load as well
as from a switch device carried by the load or in close proximity
thereto. The Platzer, Jr. '379 patent does not suggest a double
pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0011] U.S. Pat. No. 3,872,319, issued on Mar. 18, 1975 for George
E. Platzer, Jr., describes a circuitry and apparatus for the
independent control of a lamp from either a wall switch or a switch
at or near the lamp, regardless of the phase of the wall outlets
used. The Platzer, Jr. '319 patent does not suggest a double pull
LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0012] U.S. Pat. No. 3,928,737, issued on Dec. 23, 1975 for
Lopsadhayoodh Prasert, describes a remote control switching device
for the remote control of lighting or power circuits. The Prasert
patent does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch according
to the claimed invention.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 4,292,546, issued on Sep. 29, 1981 for Warren
P. Clark, describes a power control apparatus for applying or
removing power to an electrical appliance that is remote with
respect to the user. The Clark patent does not suggest a double
pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0014] U.S. Pat. No. 4,383,186, issued on May 10, 1983 for
Christopher Liang, describes an electrical switching apparatus that
can be easily connected to and disconnected from existing sockets
in conventional electrical wiring of a building. The Liang patent
does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch according to the
claimed invention.
[0015] U.S. Pat. No. 4,395,640, issued on Jul. 26, 1983 for Keith
A. Bone, describes an electricity distribution unit that has a
plurality of electrical outlets integrated into an adjustably sized
unitary assembly having means for switchably energizing selected
ones of the outlets. The Bone patent does not suggest a double pull
LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0016] U.S. Pat. No. 4,578,593, issued on Mar. 25, 1986 for Mircho
A. Davidov, describes an electrical control module that provides
both remote and wall operated switching for an electrical device.
The Davidov patent does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch
according to the claimed invention.
[0017] U.S. Pat. No. 4,736,114, issued on Apr. 5, 1988 for Erwin
Reichl, describes an electrical switching system and a method for
switching the system. The Reichl patent does not suggest a double
pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0018] U.S. Pat. No. 4,755,691, issued on Jul. 5, 1988 for Duke O.
Bethea, describes a portable, modular small appliance control
system for lamps and the like, which allows separate control of
each outlet of a multiple outlet receptacle from separate and
remote locations. The Bethea patent does not suggest a double pull
LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0019] U.S. Pat. No. 5,036,214, issued on Jul. 30, 1991 for Michael
A. Zerillo, describes a remote control mechanism for controlling
electricity from a non-interruptible electric supply, and for
optionally and simultaneously controlling electricity from a
second, but interruptible electric supply like that provided by a
clock-actuated switch in series with a continuous electric supply.
The Zerillo patent does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch
according to the claimed invention.
[0020] U.S. Pat. No. 5,574,319, issued on Nov. 12, 1996 for Neil W.
Bennett, describes plug-in electrical devices which allow a load
device to be electrically connected to and disconnected from an
electrical power source at either (a) a switched outlet
electrically coupled between the power source and the load, and (b)
a location in the vicinity of the load. The Bennett patent does not
suggest a double pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed
invention.
[0021] U.S. Pat. No. 5,598,039, issued on Jan. 28, 1997 for Harold
J. Weber, describes a method and apparatus for sensing a state of
electric power flow through a master circuit and producing remote
control of a slave circuit. The Weber patent does not suggest a
double pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed
invention.
[0022] U.S. Pat. No. 5,874,789, issued on Feb. 23, 1999 for
Chih-Hai Su, describes a circuit for integrating a local switch and
a remote-control switch. The Su patent does not suggest a double
pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed invention.
[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,985, issued on Apr. 20, 1999 for George
Fischer, describes a remote switching system for extending the
function of an existing wired switch in a residence or other
building, so that, in its extended function, the switch controls AC
power available at one or more additional AC outlets. The Fischer
patent does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch according
to the claimed invention.
[0024] U.S. Pat. No. 6,097,111, issued on Aug. 11, 2000 for Stephen
C. Anrod, describes a mode selectable power receptacle. The Anrod
patent does not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch according
to the claimed invention.
[0025] U.S. Pat. No. 6,160,728, issued on Dec. 12, 2000 for Joe W.
Peterson et al., describes an electrical receptacle that provides
power through two separate sockets. The Peterson et al. patent does
not suggest a double pull LED outlet switch according to the
claimed invention.
[0026] Great Britain Patent Application Publication No. 2 188 214
A, published on May 7, 1987, describes an electrical load control
system. The Great Britain '214 application does not suggest a
double pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed
invention.
[0027] European Patent Application Publication No. 0 520 221 A1,
published on Dec. 30, 1992, describes an electronically switched
power receptacle. The European '221 application does not suggest a
double pull LED outlet switch according to the claimed
invention.
[0028] None of the above references, taken either singly or in
combination, is seen to describe the instant invention as claimed.
Thus a double pull LED outlet switch solving the aforementioned
problems is desired.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0029] The present invention is a double pull LED outlet switch.
The double pull LED outlet switch includes a power outlet
receptacle with an upper receptacle outlet and a lower receptacle
outlet, and a double pull double throw (DPDT) switch. The DPDT
switch is positionable between an UNSWITCHED position and a
SWITCHED position. The DPDT switch enables a user to provide either
continuous power or switched power to at least the lower receptacle
outlet double pull LED outlet switch.
[0030] The double pull LED outlet switch may be configured as
either an independent or a dual double pull LED outlet switch. Both
the independent and dual double pull LED outlet switches are most
efficiently utilized if installed during construction. A post
construction double pull LED outlet switch receptacle may be
realized in two types of configurations. One configuration type is
a master unit, and one configuration type is a slave unit.
[0031] Accordingly it is a principal aspect to provide a double
pull LED outlet switch with a power outlet receptacle including
upper and lower receptacle outlets, and a DPDT switch. The DPDT
switch is positionable between an UNSWITCHED position and a
SWITCHED position. The DPDT switch enables a user to provide either
continuous power or switched power to at least the lower receptacle
outlet double pull LED outlet switch.
[0032] It is another aspect of the invention to provide a double
pull LED outlet switch with a power outlet receptacle including
upper and lower receptacle outlets, a DPDT switch, and LED
circuitry. The DPDT switch is positionable between an UNSWITCHED
position and a SWITCHED position. The LED circuitry includes at
least one LED to provide a visual indication as to whether any
receptacle outlet in the double pull LED outlet switch provides
switched power. The DPDT switch enables a user to provide either
continuous power or switched power to at least the lower receptacle
outlet double pull LED outlet switch.
[0033] It is an aspect of the invention to provide improved
elements and arrangements thereof in a double pull LED outlet
switch for the purposes described that is inexpensive, dependable,
and fully effective in accomplishing its intended purposes.
[0034] These and other aspects of the present invention will become
readily apparent upon further review of the following specification
and drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0035] FIG. 1 is a double pull LED outlet switch according to the
present invention.
[0036] FIG. 2 is a post construction double pull LED outlet switch
configured as a master unit according to the present invention.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a dual double pull LED outlet switch according to
the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 4 is an electrical schematic for wiring two double pull
LED outlet switches interconnected with each other and a single
wall switch according to the present invention.
[0039] FIG. 5 is an electrical schematic for wiring post
construction two double pull LED outlet switches interconnected
with each other and a single wall switch according to the present
invention.
[0040] FIG. 6 is an electrical schematic for wiring two dual double
pull LED outlet switches interconnected with each other and two
wall switches according to the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 7 is an electrical schematic of an LED circuit for a
double pull LED outlet switch according to the present
invention.
[0042] FIG. 8 is an electrical schematic of a double pull LED
outlet switch circuit according to the present invention.
[0043] FIG. 9 is an electrical schematic of a dual double pull LED
outlet switch circuit according to the present invention.
[0044] FIG. 10 is an electrical schematic of a double pull LED
outlet switch circuit configured as a master unit according to the
present invention.
[0045] FIG. 11 is an electrical schematic of a double pull LED
outlet switch circuit configured as a slave unit according to the
present invention.
[0046] FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, and 12D are right side, front, left
side, and rear views, respectively, of a double pull LED outlet
switch according to the present invention.
[0047] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are right side, front, left
side, and rear views, respectively, of a dual double pull LED
outlet switch according to the present invention.
[0048] FIGS. 14A, 14B, 14C, and 14D are right side, front, left
side, and rear views of a post construction double pull LED outlet
switch configured as a master unit according to the present
invention.
[0049] FIGS. 15A, 15B, 15C, and 15D are right side, front, left
side, and rear views, respectively, of a post construction double
pull LED outlet switch configured as a slave unit according to the
present invention.
[0050] Similar reference characters denote corresponding features
consistently throughout the attached drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0051] The present invention is a double pull LED outlet switch.
The invention disclosed herein is, of course, susceptible to
embodiment in many different forms. Shown in the drawings and
described herein below in detail are preferred embodiments of the
invention. It is to be understood, however, that the present
disclosure is an exemplification of the principles of the invention
and does not limit the invention to the illustrated
embodiments.
[0052] Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows a double pull LED
outlet switch 10 according to the invention. The double pull LED
outlet switch 10 allows for flexible use of a standard switched
power receptacle system. The outlet switch 10 has a physical
appearance of a standard 120 VAC power duplex outlet receptacle
with some differences.
[0053] The outlet switch 10 includes a lower receptacle 14 and an
upper receptacle 16. A small LED 12 associated with the lower
receptacle 14 is inset between the power and the grounded conductor
blade insertion points of the lower receptacle outlet 14. A double
pull double throw (DPDT) switch 18 is inset between the lower
receptacle 14 and the upper receptacle 16.
[0054] The DPDT switch 18 has two positions for either normal
operation or wall SWITCHED operation of the lower receptacle outlet
14 via an interconnected wall switch panel 20. The wall switch
panel 20 includes a wall switch 22. The outlet switch 10 is
electrically interconnected with respective black (ungrounded
conductor), white (grounded conductor), and red (switched
ungrounded conductor) wiring 24, 26, and 28. When the DPDT switch
18 is set in the SWITCHED position, wall switch controlled
operation of the lower receptacle 14 is indicated by the LED 12
situated between the power and common blade within the lower
receptacle 14.
[0055] A double pull LED outlet switch according to the invention
may be configured as either an independent or dual double pull LED
outlet switches. Both the independent and dual double pull LED
outlet switches are most efficiently utilized if installed during
construction. A post construction double pull LED outlet switch
receptacle may be realized in two types of configurations. One
configuration is a master unit, and one configuration is a slave
unit.
[0056] A post construction double pull LED outlet switch 40 shown
in FIG. 2 is configured as a master unit. The master unit according
to the invention is configured to replace an existing switched
outlet in a room so that additional switched outlets may be placed
therein according to the desires of the user. The outlet switch 40
includes an LED 42 associated with the lower receptacle 44. The
outlet switch 40 also includes an upper receptacle 46 and a DPDT
switch 48, as well as two low voltage wires 57 and 58 extending out
of the bottom of the cover plate of the outlet switch 40. The DPDT
switch 48 has two positions for either normal operation or wall
switched operation of the lower receptacle 44 via an interconnected
wall switch 52. The wall switch 52 is mounted on a wall switch
panel 50. The outlet switch 40 is electrically interconnected with
respective black (ungrounded conductor), white (grounded
conductor), and red (switched ungrounded conductor) wiring 54, 55,
and 56. When the DPDT switch 48 is set in the SWITCHED position,
wall switch controlled operation of the lower receptacle 44 is
indicated by the LED 42 situated between the power and common blade
within the lower receptacle 44.
[0057] The low voltage wires 57 and 58 extending out of the bottom
of the cover plate of the outlet switch 40 are configured to
connect to slave units via the baseboard. A step down transformer
with a bridge rectifier built into the outlet switch 40 provides
low voltage (about twelve to twenty-eight volts DC) controlled by
the wall switch 52. The low voltage is used to switch a solenoid in
the slave units.
[0058] Slave units according to the invention are configured to
replace existing UNSWITCHED receptacles in the same room as the
master unit. The slave unit looks and functions the same as a
normal independent double pull LED outlet switch receptacle, and
also includes two wires going into the bottom of the cover plate of
the slave unit. Inside the slave units a solenoid is used to switch
the high voltage on via the wall switch.
[0059] A dual double pull LED outlet switch 60 is shown in FIG. 3.
The outlet switch 60 includes a lower receptacle 62 with an
associated LED 64 and an associated DPDT switch 66. The outlet
switch 60 also includes an upper receptacle 68 with an associated
LED 80 and an associated DPDT switch 72. The two DPDT switches 66
and 72 allow the outlet switch 60 to function as two separate (top
and bottom) wall switched power outlets, while still allowing a
standard UNSWITCHED option for either or both outlets 62 and 68.
The two LEDs 64 and 70 may be configured to illuminate different
colors, such as red, blue, green, yellow, etc., in order to
increase user flexibility to its greatest extent while minimizing
confusion. Two separate wall switch panels can control two or more
possible lighting schemes, or the power for two separate electrical
devices. By placing two dual outlet switches next to each other,
eight combinations of lighting can be controlled by four standard
wall switches. This will satisfy even the most difficult
customer.
[0060] Unlike the single outlet double pull LED outlet switch
previously described, the dual outlet double pull LED outlet switch
60 requires additional wires to each receptacle. Current
requirements with this particular outlet switch 70 may be greater
than the normal fifteen-amp circuit.
[0061] Builders and light designers will find each configuration of
the double pull LED outlet switch exceptionally attractive because
they are a simple way to provide brilliant lighting and power
control schemes for new or existing homes, office suites,
apartments, hotel rooms, etc., at minimal expense. Providing this
type of lighting solutions with present appliances is inconvenient
and cost prohibitive, because moving a SWITCHED receptacle requires
massive electrical remodeling that involves wall demolition and
reconstruction.
[0062] An electrical schematic for wiring a configuration 100 is
shown in FIG. 4 where two double pull LED outlet switches 110 and
130 are interconnected with each other and a single wall switch
104. While two double pull LED outlet switches are shown in FIG. 4,
any number of double pull LED outlet switches may be interconnected
with each other and the single wall switch 104. The outlet switch
110 includes an LED 114 associated with a lower receptacle 112. The
outlet switch 110 also includes an upper receptacle 116 and a DPDT
switch 118. The outlet switch 110 is mounted on an outlet switch
panel 120. The DPDT switch 118 has two positions for either normal
operation or wall SWITCHED operation of the lower receptacle 112
via the interconnected wall switch 104. The interconnected wall
switch 104 is mounted on a wall switch panel 102. The outlet switch
110 is electrically interconnected with respective black
(ungrounded conductor), white (grounded conductor), and green
(ground) wiring. When the DPDT switch 118 is set in the SWITCHED
position, wall switch controlled operation of the lower receptacle
112 is indicated by the LED 114 situated between the power and
common blade within the lower receptacle 112.
[0063] The outlet switch 130 includes an LED 134 associated with a
lower receptacle 132. The outlet switch 130 also includes an upper
receptacle 136 and a DPDT switch 138. The DPDT switch 138 has two
positions for either normal operation or wall SWITCHED operation of
the lower receptacle 132 via the interconnected wall switch 104.
The outlet switch 130 is electrically interconnected with
respective black (ungrounded conductor), white (grounded
conductor), and green (grounding conductor) wiring. When the DPDT
switch 138 is set in the SWITCHED position, wall switch controlled
operation of the lower receptacle 132 is indicated by the LED 134
situated between the power and common blade within the lower
receptacle 132.
[0064] An electrical schematic for wiring a configuration 200 is
shown in FIG. 5 where two post construction double pull LED outlet
switches 210 and 230 are interconnected with each other and a
single wall switch 204 in a post construction variation. The outlet
switch 210 includes an LED 214 associated with a lower receptacle
212. The outlet switch 210 also includes an upper receptacle 216
and a DPDT switch 218. The outlet switch 210 is mounted on an
outlet switch panel 220. The DPDT switch 218 has two positions for
either normal operation or wall SWITCHED operation of the lower
receptacle 214 via the interconnected wall switch 204. The wall
switch 204 is mounted on a wall switch panel 202. The outlet switch
210 is electrically interconnected with respective black
(ungrounded conductor), white (grounded conductor), and green
(grounding conductor) wiring. When the DPDT switch 218 is set in
the SWITCHED position, wall switch controlled operation of the
lower receptacle 212 is indicated by the LED 214 situated between
the power and common blade within the lower receptacle 212.
[0065] The outlet switch 230 includes an LED 234 associated with a
lower receptacle 232. The outlet switch 230 also includes an upper
receptacle 236 and a DPDT switch 238. The DPDT switch 238 has two
positions for either normal operation or wall SWITCHED operation of
the lower receptacle 232 via the interconnected wall switch 204.
The outlet switch 230 is electrically interconnected with
respective black (ungrounded conductor), white (grounded
conductor), and green (grounding conductor) wiring. The outlet
switch 230 is mounted on a wall switch panel 240. When the DPDT
switch 238 is set in the SWITCHED position, wall switch controlled
operation of the lower receptacle 232 is indicated by the LED 234
situated between the power and common blade within the lower
receptacle 232.
[0066] An electrical schematic for wiring a configuration 300 is
shown in FIG. 6 where two dual double pull LED outlet switches 310
and 330 are interconnected between each other and two wall switches
304 and 308. The dual outlet switch 310 includes a lower receptacle
312 with an associated LED 314 and an associated DPDT switch 316.
The outlet switch 310 also includes an upper receptacle 318 with an
associated LED 320 and an associated DPDT switch 322. The two DPDT
switches 316 and 322 allow the outlet switch 310 to function as two
separate (top and bottom) wall SWITCHED power outlets, while still
allowing a standard UNSWITCHED option for either or both outlets
312 and 318. The two LEDs 314 and 320 may be configured to
illuminate different colors, such as red, blue, green, yellow,
etc., in order to increase user flexibility to its greatest extent
while minimizing confusion. The outlet switch 310 is interconnected
to wall switches 304 and 308 via black (ungrounded conductor),
white (grounded conductor), green (grounding conductor), red
(switched ungrounded conductor), and blue (switched ungrounded
conductor) wiring. The outlet switch 310 is mounted on an outlet
switch panel 324.
[0067] The dual outlet switch 330 includes a lower receptacle 332
with an associated LED 334 and an associated DPDT switch 336. The
outlet switch 330 also includes an upper receptacle 338 with an
associated LED 340 and an associated DPDT switch 342. The two DPDT
switches 336 and 342 allow the outlet switch 330 to function as two
separate (top and bottom) wall SWITCHED power outlets, while still
allowing a standard UNSWITCHED option for either or both outlets
336 and 342. The two LEDs 334 and 340 may be configured to
illuminate different colors, such as red, blue, green, yellow,
etc., in order to increase user flexibility to its greatest extent
while minimizing confusion. The outlet switch 330 is interconnected
to wall switches 304 and 306 via black (ungrounded conductor),
white (grounded conductor), green (grounding conductor), red
(switched ungrounded conductor), and blue (switched ungrounded
conductor) wiring. The outlet switch 330 is mounted on an outlet
switch panel 344. The separate wall switches 304 and 308 can
control two or more possible lighting schemes, or the power for two
separate electrical devices. By placing the two dual outlet
switches 310 and 330 next to each other, eight combinations of
lighting can be controlled by the two wall switches 304 and
308.
[0068] An electrical schematic of an LED circuit 400, as shown in
FIG. 7, is configured for use in the double pull LED outlet
switches described herein. The LED circuit 400 includes a resistor
R1, a diode D1, and an LED D2. The LED circuit 400 may be encased
within a double pull LED outlet switch receptacle with the LED
protruding, and inset between the power and the grounded conductor
blade insertion points on the lower outlet of the double pull LED
outlet switch. Two of the LED circuits 400, as shown in FIG. 7,
with different color LEDs may be encased in the power receptacles
of a dual double pull LED outlet switch described herein.
[0069] An electrical schematic of a double pull LED outlet circuit
500 is shown in FIG. 8. The outlet circuit 500 is configured for
use in a double pull LED outlet switch 502. The outlet switch 502
includes a lower receptacle 504 with an aperture 506 for an LED
from the LED circuit 400. The outlet switch 502 also includes an
upper receptacle 508 and a DPDT switch 510. The circuit 520 for the
DPDT switch 510 is mounted within the outlet switch 502. The DPDT
switch 510 has two positions for either normal operation or wall
SWITCHED operation of the lower receptacle 504. The LED circuit 400
is mounted inside the outlet switch 502, and is configured for
indicating the position of the DPDT switch 510. When the DPDT
switch 510 is set in the SWITCHED position, wall switch controlled
operation of the lower receptacle 510 is indicated by the LED from
the LED circuit 400 situated between the power and common blade
within the lower receptacle 504. The outlet switch 502 is mounted
on an outlet switch panel 512.
[0070] There are two lugs 514 and 516 on the right side of the
outlet switch 502, and one lug 518 on the left side of the outlet
switch 502. The lower lug 514 is configured as the SWITCHED lug
when interconnected with continuous power from a remote switch. The
upper lug 516 is configured as the UNSWITCHED lug when
interconnected with a continuous power supply. The circuit 520 is
mounted inside the outlet switch 502 and between the lower and
upper outlet receptacles 504 and 508. The outlet switch 502 is
mounted on a panel 512.
[0071] The circuit 520 for the DPDT switch 510 has two operational
positions and may function with all GFI and Arc Fault breakers. One
position is the UNSWITCHED position. The other position is the
SWITCHED position. The circuit 520 has six poles connected via
wires to various parts of the outlet switch 502 and the LED circuit
400. The first pole is connected to a sixth pole and to the power
blade of the lower outlet receptacle 504. The second pole is
connected to the power lug that provides power controlled by a
remote wall switch. The third pole is not used. The fourth pole is
connected to the LED circuit 400 that indicates when the circuit
520 is in the SWITCHED position and the lower receptacle 502 is
SWITCHED. The fifth pole is connected to the upper outlet
receptacle 508 and the upper power lug 516 that provides continuous
power to the upper receptacle 508 when interconnected with a
continuous power supply. The sixth pole is connected to the first
pole and to the power blade of the lower outlet receptacle 504.
[0072] When the DPDT switch 510 of the double pull outlet switch
502 is in the SWITCHED position, the outlet switch 502 functions as
a normal duplex receptacle that supplies continuous uninterrupted
power from both the lower and upper receptacle outlets 504 and 508.
When the DPDT switch 510 is in the UNSWITCHED position, power is
supplied to the upper receptacle outlet 508 through the upper
and/or lower power lugs. Continuous power from the upper power lug
is connected to the fifth pole of the circuit 520 and the power
blade of the upper receptacle outlet 508. The continuous power is
also routed to the power blade of the lower receptacle outlet 504
by the sixth pole of the circuit 520. Power from a remote wall
switch is supplied to the second pole of the circuit 520. The
SWITCHED power from a remote wall switch terminates at the third
pole of the circuit 520. The first and fourth poles of the circuit
520 are not utilized and/or are electrically relevant when the DPDT
switch 510 of the outlet switch 502 is positioned in the UNSWITCHED
position.
[0073] When the DPDT switch 510 of the double pull outlet switch
502 is in the SWITCHED position, the lower receptacle outlet 504 is
controlled by an interconnected remote wall switch. Power from the
remote wall switch is supplied to the receptacle outlet 504 through
the lower power lug 514 and/or the upper power lug 516. Continuous
power from the upper power lug 516 is connected to the fifth pole
of the circuit 520 and the power blade of the upper receptacle
outlet 508. Continuous power from the remote wall switch is also
routed to the LED circuit via the fourth pole of the circuit 520.
The LED of the LED circuit 400 lights continuously when the DPDT
switch 510 of the outlet switch 502 is in the SWITCHED
position.
[0074] The power from the remote wall switch supplied to the lower
lug 514 is connected to the second pole of the DPDT switch 520. The
SWITCHED power is routed to the lower power blade via the first
pole of the circuit 520. The third and sixth poles of the circuit
520 are not utilized or electrically relevant when the DPDT switch
510 is in the SWITCHED position. The LED circuit 400 is an optional
component in the construction of the double pull LED outlet switch.
The actuator of the DPDT switch 510 could be used to designate the
switch position. However, the LED circuit 400 provides a much more
effective visual indicator.
[0075] An electrical schematic of a dual double pull LED outlet
circuit 600 is shown in FIG. 9. The outlet circuit 600 is
configured for use in a dual double pull LED outlet switch 602. The
outlet switch 602 includes a lower receptacle 604 with an aperture
606 for an LED from an associated LED circuit 400. A lower circuit
624 is mounted within the outlet switch 602. A DPDT switch 608 is
associated with the lower circuit 624. The outlet switch 602 also
includes an upper receptacle 610 with an aperture 612 for an LED
from an associated LED circuit 400. An upper circuit 620 is mounted
within the outlet switch 602. A DPDT switch 614 is associated with
the upper circuit 620. The two DPDT switches 608 and 614 allow the
outlet switch 602 to function as two separate (top and bottom) wall
SWITCHED power outlets, while still allowing a standard UNSWITCHED
option for either or both outlets 604 and 610. LEDs from the LED
circuits 400 associated with the LED apertures 606 and 612 may be
configured to illuminate different colors, such as red, blue,
green, yellow, etc., in order to increase user flexibility to its
greatest extent while minimizing confusion.
[0076] There are three power lugs 609, 611, and 613 on the right
side of the outlet switch 602 that require three power sources. The
power lug 609 is the SWITCHED lug for power from a first remote
switch. The power lug 611 is the UNSWITCHED lug for the continuous
power supply. The power lug 613 is the SWITCHED lug for power from
a second remote switch. Each of the circuits 620 and 624 has an
UNSWITCHED and a SWITCHED position and may function with all GFI
and Arc Fault breakers. Each circuit 620 and 624 has six poles that
are connected via wires to various parts of the outlet switch 602
and the LED circuits 400.
[0077] The first pole of the upper circuit 620 is connected to the
sixth pole and power blade of the upper receptacle outlet 610. The
second pole of the upper circuit 620 is connected to the power lug
613 that supplies power controlled by the first remote wall switch.
The third pole of the upper circuit 620 is not used. The fourth
pole of the upper circuit 620 is connected to the upper LED circuit
400 and indicates when the upper circuit 620 is in the SWITCHED
position. The fifth pole of the upper circuit 620 is connected to
the fifth pole of the lower circuit 624 and the power lug 611 that
provides continuous power to the outlet switch 602. The sixth pole
of the upper circuit 620 is connected to the first pole of the
upper circuit 620, and to the power blade of the upper receptacle
outlet 610.
[0078] The first pole of the lower circuit 624 is connected to the
sixth pole of the lower circuit 624, and to the power blade of the
lower receptacle outlet 604. The second pole of the lower circuit
624 is connected to the power lug 609 that supplies power
controlled by the second remote wall switch. The third pole of the
lower circuit 624 is not used. The fourth pole of the lower circuit
624 is connected to the lower LED circuit 400 and indicates when
the lower receptacle outlet is SWITCHED. The fifth pole of the
lower circuit 624 is connected to the fifth pole of the upper
circuit 620, and to the power lug 611 that provides continuous
power to the outlet switch 602. The sixth pole of the lower circuit
624 is connected to the first pole of the lower circuit 624, and to
the power blade of the lower receptacle outlet 604.
[0079] When the upper circuit 620 is in the UNSWITCHED position,
the upper receptacle 610 functions as a normal outlet and supplies
continuous uninterrupted power. While the upper circuit 620 is in
the UNSWITCHED position, power is supplied to the upper receptacle
610 through power lug 611 and/or by either power lug 609 or power
lug 613. The continuous power from the power lug 611 is connected
to the fifth pole of the upper circuit 620 and the fifth pole of
the lower circuit 624. The continuous power is then routed to the
power blade of the upper receptacle 610 via the sixth pole of the
upper circuit 620. The power from the first remote wall switch
supplied to the power lug 615 is connected to the second pole of
the upper circuit 620. The SWITCHED power from the first remote
wall switch terminates at the third pole of the upper circuit 620.
The first and fourth poles of the upper circuit 620, and the power
lug 609 is not utilized and/or is electrically irrelevant when the
upper circuit 620 is UNSWITCHED.
[0080] When the upper circuit 620 is SWITCHED, the upper receptacle
610 is controlled by the first remote wall switch. Power is
supplied to the upper receptacle 610 through the power lug 611
and/or either the power lug 609 or the power lug 613. The
continuous power from the power lug 611 is connected to the fifth
pole of the upper circuit 620 and the fifth pole of the lower DPDT
switch 624. The continuous power is routed to the upper LED circuit
400 via the fourth pole of the upper circuit 620. The LED of the
upper LED circuit 400 is then lighted continuously when the upper
circuit 620 is SWITCHED. The power from the first remote wall
switch supplied to the power lug 613 is connected to the second
pole of the upper circuit 620. The SWITCHED power is routed to the
power blade of the upper receptacle 610 via the first pole of the
upper circuit 620. The third and sixth poles of the upper circuit
620, and the power lug 609 are not utilized and/or are electrically
irrelevant to the upper circuit 620 when the upper circuit 620 is
SWITCHED.
[0081] When the lower circuit 624 is UNSWITCHED, the lower
receptacle 604 functions as a normal outlet and supplies continuous
uninterrupted power. While the circuit 624 is in the UNSWITCHED
position, power is supplied to the lower receptacle 604 through
power lug 611 and/or by either power lug 609 or power lug 613. The
continuous power from the power lug 611 is connected to the fifth
pole of the lower circuit 624 and the fifth pole of the upper
circuit 620. The continuous power is then routed to the power blade
of the lower receptacle outlet 604 by the sixth pole of the lower
circuit 624. The power from the second remote wall switch supplied
to the power lug 609 is connected to the second pole of the lower
circuit 624. The SWITCHED power from the second remote wall switch
terminates at the third pole of the lower circuit 624. The first
and fourth poles of the lower circuit 624, and the power lug 613 is
not utilized and/or is electrically irrelevant when the lower
circuit 624 is UNSWITCHED.
[0082] When the lower circuit 624 is SWITCHED, the lower receptacle
604 is controlled by the second remote wall switch. Power is
supplied to the lower receptacle 604 through the power lug 611
and/or either the power lug 609 or the power lug 613. The
continuous power from the power lug 611, is connected to the fifth
pole of the lower circuit 624 and the fifth pole of the upper
circuit 620. The continuous power is routed to the lower LED
circuit 400 via the fourth pole of the lower circuit 624. The LED
of the lower LED circuit 400 is then lighted continuously when the
lower circuit 624 is SWITCHED. The power from the second remote
wall switch supplied to the power lug 609 is connected to the
second pole of the lower circuit 624. The SWITCHED power is routed
to the power blade of the lower receptacle 604 via the first pole
of the lower circuit 624. The third and sixth poles of the lower
circuit 624, and the power lug 613 are not utilized and/or are
electrically irrelevant to the lower circuit 624 when the lower
circuit 624 is SWITCHED. The LED circuits 400 are optional
components in the construction of the double pull LED outlet
switch. The actuators of the switches could be used to designate
the switch position of the associated outlet switch, however the
LED circuits 400 are a much more effective visual indicator.
[0083] Post construction double pull LED outlet switches may be
configured as either a master unit or a slave unit. An electrical
schematic of a double pull LED outlet switch circuit 700 configured
as a master unit is shown in FIG. 10. The circuit 700 is configured
for use in a dual double pull LED outlet switch 702. The outlet
switch 702 includes a lower receptacle 704 with an aperture 705 for
the LED from the LED circuit 400. The outlet switch 702 also
includes an upper receptacle 708 and a DPDT switch 710. The outlet
switch 702 also includes a pair of high voltage lugs and a pair of
low voltage lugs, as well as a grounded conductor lug on the right
side of the outlet switch 702.
[0084] The circuit 720 for the DPDT switch 710 is mounted within
the outlet switch 702. The circuit 720 has two positions that allow
for either normal operation or wall SWITCHED operation of the lower
receptacle 704. An LED circuit 400 is mounted inside the outlet
switch 702, and is configured for indicating the position of the
DPDT switch 710. A step-down transformer 730 with a bridge
rectifier (not shown) and a fuse 732 are also mounted in the outlet
switch 702. The outlet switch 702 is mounted on an outlet switch
panel 712.
[0085] The transformer 730 has four poles. The first pole of the
transformer 730 is connected to the grounded conductor lug of the
outlet switch 702. The second pole of the transformer 730 is
connected to a second high voltage power lug of the outlet switch
702 and the second pole of the circuit 720. The third and fourth
poles of the transformer 730 are connected to the low voltage lugs
of the outlet switch 702. The first high voltage power lug of the
outlet switch 702 is UNSWITCHED for the continuous power supply.
The second high voltage power switch of the outlet switch 702 is
the SWITCHED lug for power from a first remote wall switch. The
pair of lower voltage lugs supply power to the slave units by
activating the relay to the post construction LED outlet switch
units.
[0086] The circuit 720 has two operational positions and may
function with all GFI and Arc Fault breakers. One position is the
UNSWITCHED position. The other position is the SWITCHED position.
The circuit 720 has six poles which are connected via wires to
various parts of the outlet switch 702 and the LED circuit 400. The
first pole is connected to a sixth pole and to the power blade of
the lower receptacle 704. The second pole is connected to the
step-down transformer 730 and the power lug that provides power
controlled by a remote wall switch. The third pole is not used. The
fourth pole is connected to the LED circuit 400 that indicates when
the circuit 720 is in the SWITCHED position and the lower
receptacle 704 is SWITCHED. The fifth pole is connected to the
power blade of the upper receptacle 708 and the power lug that
provides continuous power to the outlet switch 702. The sixth pole
is connected to the first pole and to the power blade of the lower
receptacle 704.
[0087] When the circuit 720 is UNSWITCHED, the outlet switch 702
functions as a normal duplex receptacle supplying continuous
uninterrupted power from both the lower and upper receptacles 704
and 708. The outlet switch 702 may supply low voltage power for
operation of interconnected post production double pull LED slave
units when power is provided to the one of the high power lugs and
the corresponding lug is active. Power is supplied into the outlet
switch 702 through one or both of the high voltage power lugs.
[0088] The continuous power from the first high voltage power lug
is connected to the fifth pole of the DPDT switch 702 and the power
blade of the upper receptacle 708. The continuous power is then
routed to the power blade of the lower receptacle 704 via the sixth
pole of the circuit 720. The power from the remote wall switch
supplied to the second high voltage power slug is connected to the
second pole of the circuit 720, and the step-down transformer 730.
The SWITCHED power from the remote wall switch as it relates to the
function of the lower receptacle 704 of the master unit, terminates
at the third pole of the circuit 720.
[0089] Should the remote wall switch provide power to the second
high voltage power lug and the second pole of the circuit 720 and
the transformer 730, the transformer 730 energizes and provides low
voltage power through the fuse 732 to the low voltage lugs on the
right side of the outlet switch 702. The low voltage is conveyed
between low voltage lugs of the outlet switch 702 and low voltage
lugs of interconnected slave units (not shown) via low voltage
wire. The first and fourth poles of the circuit 720 are not
utilized and/or are not electrically relevant when the outlet
switch 702 is UNSWITCHED.
[0090] When the circuit 720 is SWITCHED, the outlet switch 702
supplies SWITCHED power to the lower receptacle 704 and continuous
power to the upper receptacle 708. Power is supplied to the outlet
switch 702 through the both high voltage power lugs. The continuous
power from the first high voltage power lug is connected to the
fifth pole of the circuit 720 and the power blade of the upper
receptacle 708. The continuous power is then routed to the LED
circuit 400 via the fourth pole of the circuit 720. The LED of the
LED circuit 400 is lighted continuously when the circuit 720 is
SWITCHED.
[0091] The power from the remote wall switch supplied to the second
power lug is connected to the second pole of circuit 720 and
transformer 730, and the transformer energizes and provides low
voltage power via fuse 732 to the low voltage lugs on the right
side of the outlet switch 702. The low voltage power is conveyed
between the low voltage lugs of the outlet switch 702 (master unit)
and the low voltage lugs of any interconnected slave units (not
shown) via low voltage wire. The third and sixth poles are not
utilized and/or are electrically irrelevant to the circuit 720 when
the circuit 720 is SWITCHED. The LED circuit 400 is an optional
component in the construction of the post construction double pull
LED outlet switch 702. The actuator of the switch could be used to
designate switch position. However, the LED circuit 400 is a much
more effective visual indicator.
[0092] An electrical schematic of a double pull LED outlet switch
circuit 800 configured as a slave unit is shown in FIG. 11. The
circuit 800 is configured for use in a dual double pull LED outlet
switch 802. The outlet switch 802 includes a lower receptacle 804
with an aperture 806 for the LED from the LED circuit 400. The
outlet switch 802 also includes an upper receptacle 808 and a DPDT
switch 810. The outlet switch 802 also includes a pair of high
voltage lugs and a pair of low voltage lugs, as well as a grounded
conductor lug on the right side of the outlet switch 802.
[0093] The circuit 820 for the DPDT switch 810 is mounted within
the outlet switch 802. The DPDT switch 810 has two positions that
allow for either normal operation or wall SWITCHED operation of the
lower receptacle 804. An LED circuit 400 is mounted inside the
outlet switch 802, and is configured for indicating the position of
the DPDT switch 810. A relay 830 is also mounted in the outlet
switch 802. The outlet switch 802 includes a single high voltage
power lug 816, and a pair of smaller, low voltage power lugs 817
and 818 on the right side of the outlet switch 802.
[0094] The relay 830 has four poles. The first pole of the relay
830 is connected to the second pole of the circuit 820. The second
pole of the relay 830 is connected to the high voltage power lug
816 of the outlet switch 802, the power blade of the upper
receptacle 808, and the fifth pole of the circuit 820. The high
voltage power lug 816 interconnects with a power supply and
provides continuous power from the power supply to the outlet
switch 802. The low voltage lugs 817 and 818 receive low voltage
from an interconnected master unit.
[0095] The circuit 820 has two operational positions and may
function with all GFI and Arc Fault breakers. One position is the
UNSWITCHED position. The other position is the SWITCHED position.
The circuit 820 has six poles that are connected via wires to
various parts of the outlet switch 802 and the LED circuit 400, and
the relay 830. The first pole is connected to a sixth pole and to
the power blade of the lower outlet receptacle 804. The second pole
is connected to the first pole of the relay 830. The third pole is
not used. The fourth pole is connected to the LED circuit 400 that
indicates when the circuit 820 is in the SWITCHED position. The
fifth pole is connected to the second pole of the relay 830, the
high voltage power lug of the outlet switch 802, and the power
blade of the upper receptacle 808. The sixth pole is connected to
the first pole and to the power blade of the lower receptacle
804.
[0096] When the circuit 820 is SWITCHED, the outlet switch 802
functions as a normal duplex receptacle supplying continuous
uninterrupted power from both the lower and upper receptacles 804
and 808. Power is supplied into the outlet switch 802, when the
outlet switch 802 is SWITCHED, through the high voltage power lug
and through the low voltage power lugs. High voltage power received
from the high voltage power lug connects to the fifth pole of the
circuit 820, the power blade of the upper receptacle 808, and the
second pole of the relay 830. High voltage power is then routed to
the power blade of the lower receptacle 804 via the sixth pole of
the circuit 820. High voltage power provided to the second pole of
the relay 830 terminates if the relay 830 is not energized. Should
low voltage power supplied from an interconnected master unit and
provided by the low voltage lugs of the outlet switch 802 energize
the relay 830, the high voltage is then routed to the circuit 820
via the first pole of the relay 830 and the second pole of the DPDT
switch 810. The high voltage then terminates at the third pole of
the circuit 820. The first and fourth poles of the circuit 820 are
not utilized and/or are electrically irrelevant when the outlet
switch 802 is UNSWITCHED.
[0097] When the circuit 820 is SWITCHED, the lower receptacle 804
is controlled by the remote wall switch via the low voltage power
conveyed from the master unit. Power is supplied to the outlet
switch, when the DPDT switch is SWITCHED, through the high voltage
power lug and through the low voltage power lugs. High voltage
power received from the high voltage power lug is provided to the
fifth pole of the circuit 820, the power blade of the upper
receptacle 808, and the second pole of the relay 830. The high
voltage power is then routed to the LED circuit 400 via the fourth
pole of the circuit 820. The LED is lighted continuously when the
circuit 820 is SWITCHED. High voltage power received by the second
pole of the relay 830 terminates at the relay 830 if the relay is
not energized.
[0098] Should low voltage power supplied from an interconnected
master unit and provided by the low voltage lugs of the outlet
switch 802 energize the relay 830, the high voltage is then routed
to the circuit 820 via the first pole of the relay 830 and the
second pole of the circuit 820. The high voltage is then routed to
the lower power blade of the lower receptacle 804 via the first
pole of the circuit 820. The third and sixth poles of the circuit
820 are not utilized and/or are electrically irrelevant to the
circuit 820 when the circuit 820 is SWITCHED. The LED circuit 400
is an optional component in the construction of the post
construction double pull LED outlet switch 802. The actuator of the
circuit 820 could be used to designate switch position. However,
the LED circuit 400 is a much more effective visual indicator.
[0099] FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate respective left side, front, right
side, and rear views of a double pull LED outlet switch 900. The
outlet switch 902 includes a lower receptacle 904 and an LED 906.
The outlet switch 902 also includes an upper receptacle 908 and a
DPDT switch 910. The DPDT switch 910 has two positions for either
normal operation or wall SWITCHED operation of the lower receptacle
904. When the DPDT switch 910 is set in the SWITCHED position, wall
switch controlled operation of the lower receptacle 904 is
indicated by the LED 906. The outlet switch 902 is mounted on an
outlet switch panel 912.
[0100] There are two lugs 916 and 918 on the right side of the
outlet switch 902, and one lug 915 on the left side of the outlet
switch 902. The upper lug 916 is configured as the UNSWITCHED lug
when interconnected with a continuous power supply. The lower lug
918 is configured as the SWITCHED lug when interconnected with
continuous power from a remote switch.
[0101] FIGS. 13A-13D illustrate respective left side, front, right
side, and rear views of a dual double pull LED outlet switch 1000.
The outlet switch 1002 includes a lower receptacle 1004 with an LED
1006 and a DPDT switch 1008. The outlet switch 1002 also includes
an upper receptacle 1010 with an LED 1012 and a DPDT switch 1014.
The two DPDT switches 1008 and 1014 allow the outlet switch 1002 to
function as two separate (top and bottom) wall SWITCHED power
outlets, while still allowing a standard UNSWITCHED option for
either or both outlets 1004 and 1010. The LEDs 1006 and 1012 may be
configured to illuminate different colors, such as red, blue,
green, yellow, etc., in order to increase user flexibility to its
greatest extent while minimizing confusion.
[0102] There are three power lugs 1022, 1024, and 1026 on the right
side of the outlet switch 1002 that require three power sources.
The power lug 1022 is the SWITCHED lug for power from a first
remote switch. The power lug 1024 is the UNSWITCHED lug for the
continuous power supply. The power lug 1026 is the SWITCHED lug for
power from a second remote switch.
[0103] FIGS. 14A-14D illustrate respective left side, front, right
side, and rear views of a post construction dual double pull LED
outlet switch 1100 configured as a master unit. The outlet switch
1100 includes a lower receptacle 1104 with an LED 1106. The outlet
switch 1100 also includes an upper receptacle 1108, a DPDT switch
1110, a pair of high voltage lugs, and a pair of low voltage lugs,
as well as a grounded conductor lug on the right side of the outlet
switch 1100.
[0104] FIGS. 15A-15D illustrate respective left side, front, right
side, and rear views of a post construction dual double pull LED
outlet switch 1200 configured as a slave unit. The outlet switch
1200 includes a lower receptacle 1204 with an LED 1206. The outlet
switch 1200 also includes an upper receptacle 1208, a DPDT switch
1210, a pair of high voltage lugs, and a pair of low voltage lugs,
as well as a grounded conductor lug on the right side of the outlet
switch 1200.
[0105] The inventive double pull LED outlet switch is designed for
simplistic function. After this device is installed in place of
standard outlets in a given room it is quite simple to select which
outlets will be remotely SWITCHED and which ones will maintain
continuous power. One simply needs to slide the associated DPDT
switch between the upper and lower receptacles of the outlet switch
to the position that illuminates the LED between the blades of the
lower outlet. The appearance of light indicates a remote controlled
position. No appearance of light indicates that power will not be
interrupted by the remote switch. In the dual double pull LED
outlet switch the upper switch lights the upper LED to indicate its
function independent of the lower switch and the lower LED.
[0106] While the invention has been described with references to
its preferred embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled
in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be
substituted for elements thereof without departing from the true
spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications
may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the
teaching of the invention without departing from its essential
teachings.
* * * * *