Junction box assembly with a removable connector support

Abstract

Junction box assembly (10) for receiving at least one connector assembly (200), wherein the junction box assembly (10) comprises: a power distribution box (14); a base cover (16) which has a base cover cavity (32) and an open top, wherein the electrical distribution box (14) is dimensioned to be mounted on the base cover (16) to close the open side (32a); and a connector support (46) which is removable and can be fixed to the base cover (16), wherein the connector support (46) is configured to hold the connector assembly (200) and is dimensioned to fit into the base cover cavity (32) and adjacent to the electrical distribution box (14), wherein the connector support (46) is rotatably or pivotably coupled to the base cover (16) and is movable between a first position (OP) and a second position (CP), wherein in the first position (OP) a base of the base cover (16) is at least partially exposed, wherein the connector support (46) includes at least one gripper (54) which is arranged on the connector support (46), and the base cover (16) includes at least one shaft (60), wherein the gripper (54) is configured to grasp the shaft or the shank (60) in order to rotate or pivot the connector support (46) about the shaft (60).

Description

[0001] The present description relates generally to junction box assemblies, and more particularly to electrical junction box assemblies comprising a power distribution box and connector assemblies, wherein the connector assemblies can be moved to access a floor cover.

[0002] Generally, electrical junction box assemblies include a power distribution box for storing electrical components configured to regulate power to various electrical components. Generally speaking, power is supplied to the power distribution box, where the power is regulated using well-known components such as switches, relays, fuses, capacitors, resistors, and the like. The regulated power is then supplied to selected electrical components.

[0003] The power distribution box is arranged above a base cover. The base cover includes a plurality of compartments for accommodating a connector assembly. Fig. Figure 1 shows the partitions integrally formed on a base of the base cover. Such a configuration does not provide access to other components and limits packaging options. For example, an eyelet terminal that includes a bus bar for providing electrical connection to electrical components cannot be removed without removing the connector assembly.

[0004] In one embodiment, the connector support includes a retention hook configured to retain the connector assembly. The connector support includes a connector wall formed on the upper surface of the base of the connector support. The connector wall forms a connector cavity configured to receive a respective connector assembly. The retention hook is disposed along the connector wall and is resiliently biased to engage and retain the connector assembly.

[0005] US 5,777,843 A discloses a double-sided power distribution box and protective enclosure assembly that provides convenient access to both sides of the power distribution box for maintenance and inspection purposes while protecting both sides of the power distribution box from contamination by solid or liquid materials. A lower enclosure is rigidly mounted to a structure and hinged to the power distribution box. The power distribution box is pivotable about the hinge between a closed position, in which the power distribution box is fitted into the concave top surface of the lower enclosure such that the bottom of the power distribution box is enclosed by the lower enclosure, and an open position, in which the bottom of the power distribution box is exposed for maintenance or inspection.An upper enclosure is also hinged to the power distribution box and can be opened to provide access to the electrical components on top of the power distribution box. The lower enclosure also provides a compartment that allows for the protected internal mounting of additional electrical components, such as an electronic module, inline connector, or splice box.

[0006] DE 102011 079 215 A1 discloses a pressure-contact connection structure for electrical wires, including a first cover of a holder and a second cover of the holder attached to the first holder, and a holder mounting part provided on an electrical wire connection target member and configured to be attached to the second cover. The electrical wires arranged parallel to each other are held between the first cover and the second cover such that a portion of the side portions of the electrical wires extends from one side of the holder and the other portion of the side portions of the electrical wires extends from the other side of the holder. Ends of one portion of the side portions of the electrical wires are bent to the other side of the holder via the first cover and tied to the other side portions of the electrical wires with a tie band.A pressure contact terminal is inserted into the holder through an opening formed in the second cover when the second cover is attached to the holder mounting part, so that the pressure contact terminal is pressure-contacted with the electrical wire housed in the holder.

[0007] DE 10 2007 034 394 B4 describes a junction box assembly configured to accommodate an electrical assembly, the assembly comprising: a junction box cover having an upper part and a lower part, wherein a closure member is integrated into the upper part and the lower part, wherein the closure member has an opening for receiving a locking member, wherein the lower part has a first latch and a second latch extending from the lower part, wherein the first latch terminates at a first connecting part and the second latch terminates at a second connecting part, a base member comprising a plurality of connected side walls extending from a bottom wall to form a cavity, wherein a side wall comprises a first hinge member and a second hinge member configured to respectively receive the first connecting part and the second connecting part,and wherein a second side wall has a blocking member contacting the closure member, wherein the blocking member presses the closure member against the blocking member when the blocking member is received in the opening of the closure member to secure the junction box cover to the base member.,

[0008] Accordingly, it is an object to provide an electrical junction box assembly wherein the bottom of the floor cover can be accessed without disconnecting the connector assembly.

[0009] This object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent claims. Particular embodiments of the invention are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0010] According to one aspect, a junction box assembly is provided for receiving at least one connector assembly, the junction box assembly comprising: a power distribution box; a base cover having a base cover cavity and an open top, the power distribution box being sized to be mounted on the base cover to close the open side; and a connector support removably attachable to the base cover, the connector support configured to hold the connector assembly and sized to fit within the base cover cavity and adjacent the power distribution box.

[0011] In a particular embodiment, a junction box assembly is provided having a removable connector support. The junction box assembly includes a housing including a top cover, a power distribution box (“PDB”), and a bottom cover. The top cover is configured to close the top of the PDB, and the PDB is configured to be disposed on top of the bottom cover. The junction box assembly further includes a connector support removably attached to the bottom cover and movable from a closed position to an open position, wherein in the open position, a bottom of the bottom cover is exposed. The connector support is configured to hold at least one connector assembly.

[0012] According to the invention, the connector support is rotatably or pivotably coupled to the base cover and movable between a first position and a second position, wherein in the first position, a bottom of the base cover is at least partially exposed. According to the invention, the connector support is rotatably coupled to the inner surface of the bottom of the bottom cover. The connector support includes a gripper or gripping element arranged on a lower surface of the connector support. The bottom cover includes a shaft or shaft coupled to the inner surface of the bottom of the bottom cover, wherein the gripper is configured to grip the shaft to rotate the connector support about the shaft, wherein the connector support moves between the open position and the closed position.

[0013] Furthermore, in particular, the connector support includes at least one gripper arranged on the connector support, and the base cover includes at least one shaft, wherein the gripper is configured to grip the shaft to rotate or pivot the connector support about the shaft, wherein the gripper preferably includes at least a pair of arms, wherein the pair of arms is resilient, wherein the pair of arms are spaced apart from each other to define a slotted shaft, and / or wherein an inner surface of each of the pair of arms is preferably substantially curved.

[0014] Furthermore, in particular, the junction box assembly further includes one or more supports, the support being a generally planar member formed integrally or piecewise on the base cover, the support supporting the stem above the bottom of the base cover.

[0015] Furthermore, in particular, the junction box assembly further includes at least one latching or locking mechanism configured to secure the connector support to the base cover when the connector support is in the second position in one embodiment, and the connector support includes a locking or locking mechanism. The latching mechanism is configured to secure the connector support to the base cover when the connector support is in the closed position. For example, the latching mechanism may be disposed on a front wall of the connector support. The latch is formed from a resilient member configured to engage a lip disposed within the bottom cover. The latching mechanism may be pressed to release the latching mechanism from the lip when the connector support moves from the closed to the open position.

[0016] Furthermore, the locking mechanism preferably comprises a resilient extension.

[0017] Further in particular, the resilient projection is disposed on a front wall of the connector support and is configured to engage at least one lip disposed within the base cover, the resilient projection can be pressed to release the resilient projection from the lip and free the connector support to move from the second position to the first position, wherein the base cover includes at least one key structure, the key structure is formed on a first side wall of the base cover, the key structure is preferably a generally U-shaped member, the lip preferably defining an upper portion of the generally U-shaped member and a gap disposed adjacent to or below the lip, the gap being configured to receive a portion of the resilient projection.

[0018] Further in particular the connector support includes at least one open retention feature, the open retention feature is configured to maintain the connector support in the first position, wherein the open retention feature preferably includes at least one nub and at least one receiving opening, the nub is disposed on a rear wall of the connector support and the receiving opening is disposed on the bottom of the base cover, the nub is oriented to engage the receiving opening preferably in a press-fit engagement when the connector support is in the first position, and / or wherein the nub preferably has a ramp-shaped cross-section with a planar orflat front edge generally orthogonal to the rear wall of the connector support, and / or wherein the outlet assembly preferably further includes at least one spacer, the spacer including a pair of legs and a support wall, the pair of legs spaced apart from each other and disposed at an angle other than 0° or 180°, preferably substantially orthogonal to the connector support, the support wall at least partially interconnecting the pair of legs, the nub being disposed on an outer surface of the support wall. In one embodiment, the connector support includes an open retention feature. The open retention feature is configured to maintain the connector support in the open position. For example, the open retention feature may be at least one nub.The nub is disposed on a rear wall of the connector support. The bottom of the bottom cover includes a receiving opening, with the nub oriented to engage the receiving opening in a press-fit engagement when the connector support is in the open position. Accordingly, the retention feature helps maintain the connector support in an open position.

[0019] Furthermore, in particular the outlet assembly further includes at least one reinforcement feature configured to help prevent the connector support from separating from the base cover when the connector support is in the second position and to allow the connector support to be released from the base cover when the connector support is in the first position, wherein the reinforcement feature preferably includes a latch and the base cover includes a stop and a post, wherein the post comprises a generally planar orplanar member formed integrally or piecewise on the base cover, the post supporting the stem above the bottom of the base cover, the pawl being fixedly disposed on an inner surface of an end wall, the end wall being spaced from the gripper to receive the post, the stop being disposed on an outer surface of the post, the pawl being disposed below the stop when the connector support is in the second position. In one embodiment, the junction box assembly includes a reinforcement feature. The reinforcement feature is configured to help prevent the connector support from becoming detached or separated from the base cover. In one aspect of the reinforcement feature, the reinforcement feature includes a stop disposed on an outer surface of a post. An end wall includes a pawl.A tab disposed on an inner surface of the end wall, the end wall spaced from the gripper to receive the post. The latch is configured to be positioned below the stop when the connector support is in the closed position.

[0020] Further preferably, the base cover includes at least one eyelet port opening and one eyelet port support and at least one fluid attenuation feature configured to close the eyelet port opening to prevent fluid from entering the base cover cavity, wherein the base cover further includes at least one partition defining the eyelet port opening, and wherein the fluid attenuation feature is preferably disposed on the connector support and includes a rear support wall, a pair of side support walls, and / or a hood, the hood covering a top surface of the rear support wall, the fluid attenuation feature further including a pair of hood walls spaced from respective side support walls to matingly receive opposing portions of the partition defining the eyelet port opening.In one embodiment, the connector support includes a water attenuation feature, wherein the bottom cover includes a lug terminal opening and a lug terminal support. The lug terminal support is disposed on an interior surface of the bottom of the bottom cover. The lug terminal opening is bounded along the sides by a partition. The partition is generally orthogonal to the bottom and includes a lug terminal portion that includes a bus bar opening for receiving a bus bar.

[0021] The water mitigation feature specifically includes an eyelet cover having a rear support wall and a pair of side support walls. A cap covers the top of the rear support wall and includes a pair of cap walls spaced from respective side support walls to mateably receive opposing portions of the partition defining the sides of the eyelet opening. Accordingly, the eyelet opening is closed to prevent water from entering the ground cover.

[0022] Furthermore, in particular, the connector support includes at least one connector wall formed on the connector support, preferably on an upper surface of a base of the connector support, wherein the connector wall(s) define(s) at least one connector cavity configured to at least partially receive the connector assembly, wherein at least one retaining hook is preferably arranged along or on the connector wall, which is configured to engage the connector assembly.

[0023] Accordingly, the junction box assembly is configured to receive a connector assembly while still providing access to the bottom of the floor cover without having to disconnect the connector assembly.

[0024] The embodiments presented in the drawings are illustrative and exemplary in nature and are not intended to limit the subject matter defined by the claims. The following description of the illustrative embodiments can be understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings, wherein similar structure is designated by similar reference numerals. It should be understood that, even though embodiments are described separately, individual features thereof may be combined to form additional embodiments. Fig. 1A schematically illustrates a prior art base cover for use in a junction box assembly; Fig. Figure 1B is a plan view of the floor covering shown in Fig. 1A is shown; Fig. 2 schematically illustrates a junction box assembly according to one or more embodiments illustrated herein; Fig. 3 is an exploded view of the junction box assembly shown in Fig. 2 is shown; Fig. 4 is an exploded view of the floor cover assembly shown in Fig. 3 is shown; Fig. 5 is an isolated view of a floor covering according to one or more embodiments described and illustrated herein; Fig. 6 is an isolated view of the connector support taken from the ground; Fig. 7 is a view showing the connector support in the closed position and mounted within the bottom cover; Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 7, taken along a line 8-8; Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 7, taken along a line 9-9; Fig. 10 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 7, taken along a line 10-10; Fig. Figure 11 is a view showing the connector support in the open position and mounted within the bottom cover. Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 11, taken along a line 12-12; Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 11, taken along a line 13-13; Fig. 14 is a perspective view showing connector assemblies disposed on the connector support; and Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of Fig. 14, taken along a line 15-15.

[0025] Referring generally to the figures, particular embodiments of the present disclosure include a receptacle assembly having a removable connector support. The connector support is configured to support a connector assembly. The connector support is removably attached to a bottom cover to provide access to a bottom of the bottom cover.

[0026] As used herein, the terms front and rear refer to the orientation of the associated part when the restraint system is assembled, where the front refers to the portion of the part facing toward the other during assembly, and the rear refers to the portion of the part facing away from the front. The terms top and bottom refer to the orientation of the part as shown in the figures.

[0027] Now with reference to Fig. 2, an illustrative embodiment of a junction box assembly 10 is provided. The junction box assembly 10 includes a top cover 12, a power distribution box ("PDB") 14, and / or a bottom cover 16 (as a particular base cover). The top cover 12, the PDB 14, and / or the bottom cover 16 are removably coupled to one another using one or more locking mechanisms. The junction box assembly 10 may include an eyelet terminal housing 18 disposed on an exterior surface of the junction box assembly 10. The junction box assembly 10 may be formed from a durable material adaptable for use in an injection molding process, which illustratively includes polypropylene.

[0028] The junction box assembly 10 is configured to receive power from at least one power source, in this particular case, two different power sources. The junction box assembly 10 is configured to conduct power from the power source(s) to one or more different electrical devices (not shown). The junction box assembly at least partially accommodates at least one connector assembly 200, as shown in Fig. 14. The connector assembly 200 at least partially receives a terminal connection, wherein one or more wires 300 routed from the connector assembly 200 are in electrical communication with respective electrical devices.

[0029] Now with reference to Fig. 3, an exploded view of the junction box assembly 10 is provided. The PDB 14 includes a PDB top cover 20 and / or a PDB bottom cover 22. The PDB top cover 20 is releasably attached or attachable to the PDB bottom cover 22. The PDB bottom cover 22 is configured to support or receive one or more electrical components configured to conduct electrical signals to one or more, particularly a plurality of, relays and / or switches. The relay(s) and / or switch(es) is / are shown mounted on the top surface thereof. The PDB bottom cover 22 is configured to substantially close the bottom cover 16.

[0030] Now with reference to Fig. 4, an exploded view of the bottom portion of the junction box assembly 10 is provided. The bottom cover 16 is particularly generally cubic or box-shaped and includes a pair of first side walls 24, a first front wall 26, and a first rear wall 28. A bottom base 30 substantially closes the bottom of the bottom cover 16 to define a bottom cover cavity 32 (as a special base cover cavity) having an open top 32a.

[0031] The first rear wall 28 includes one or more, particularly a pair of, wire openings 34 configured to at least partially receive one or more wires 300 through which electrical signals are carried. The eyelet terminal housing 18 is shown disposed on one of the first side walls 24. The eyelet terminal housing 18 receives an eyelet terminal 36 for receiving power. In this particular embodiment, the junction box assembly 10 includes one or more, particularly a pair of, outer eyelet terminals 36a for providing power from one or more, particularly two, different power sources (such as a 12-volt and a 48-volt source), and / or an inner eyelet terminal 36b for conducting power to another load.The junction box assembly 10 may further include one or more, particularly a pair of, busbars 38a, 38b. Specifically, one of the busbars 38a is configured to supply or provide power from one of the outer eyelet terminals 36a to the inner eyelet terminal 36b disposed in or on the bottom cover cavity 32.

[0032] Now with reference to Fig. 5, a top plan view of the floor cover 16 is provided. The floor base 30 of the floor cover 16 is, in particular, a generally planar surface. The floor base 30 includes an eyelet terminal opening 40 for providing access to the inner eyelet terminal 36b. The eyelet terminal opening 40 is, in particular, bounded or at least partially surrounded along the sides by a partition 42. The partition 42 is, in particular, a generally planar member disposed at an angle other than 0° or 180°, preferably substantially orthogonal to the floor base 30 and / or includes an eyelet terminal portion having a bus bar opening 44 for at least partially receiving the bus bar 38a. The bus bar 38a electrically connects the inner eyelet terminal 36b to the outer eyelet terminal 36b.external eyelet connection 36a.

[0033] Again with reference to Fig. 4 and now on Fig. 6, Fig. 7 and Fig. 11, the junction box assembly 10 further includes a connector support 46. The connector support 46 is removably attached or attachable to the bottom cover 16. The connector support 46 is configured to fit within the bottom cover cavity 32 to sit below a plane defined by the upper edge of the first side walls 24, the first front wall 26, and the first rear wall 28 of the bottom cover 16.

[0034] The connector support 46 includes a base 48. The base 48 is, in particular, a generally planar member having a top surface 48a and a bottom surface 48b opposite the top surface 48a. The top surface 48a includes a connector housing support 50. In this particular embodiment, the connector support 46 includes one or more, in particular a pair of, connector housing supports 50 configured to support one or more, in particular a pair of, connector assemblies 200.

[0035] In one aspect, the bottom surface 48b of the connector support 46 includes a first attachment structure 52 configured to engage the bottom cover 16, wherein the first attachment structure 52 is specifically configured to releasably engage the bottom cover 16 to cover the bottom base 30 of the bottom cover 16 in one instance and at least partially expose the bottom base 30 of the bottom cover 16 in the other instance.

[0036] In one aspect, the first attachment structure 52 is configured to rotatably or pivotably attach the connector support 46 to the bottom cover 16.

[0037] Again with reference to Fig. 6, Fig. 7 and Fig. 11 and now also on Fig. 5, an illustrative embodiment of the first securing structure 52 is provided. The first securing structure 52 is configured to position the connector support 46 between a closed position CP (as a particular second position shown in Fig. 7) and an open position OP (as a special first position, shown in Fig. 11) to rotate or pivot.

[0038] In one aspect of the first securing structure 52, the first securing structure 52 includes at least one gripper 54 disposed on the connector support 46 (specifically, the bottom surface 48b thereof). The gripper 54 includes a pair of arms 56 spaced apart to form a slotted shaft 58. The arms 56 are resilient for opening and closing.

[0039] The base cover 16 includes at least one support shaft 60 coupled to the base cover 16 (specifically, the inner cover of the base 30 thereof). The gripper 54 is configured to engage the support shaft 60 to rotate or pivot the connector support 46 about the support shaft 60, allowing movement of the connector support 46 between the open position OP and the closed position CP. In a preferred embodiment, the first securing structure 52 includes a plurality (e.g., three) grippers 54 spaced apart from one another along a common axis. The grippers 54 are or are coupled to the support shaft 60 (or a plurality of corresponding support shafts) by pressing the arms 56 onto the support shaft(s) 60 along the slotted shaft 58 of the gripper(s) 54, whereby the slotted shaft(s) 58 is opened oruntil the support shaft(s) 60 pass the distal ends of the arms 56. The arms 56 are then free to close on the support shaft(s) 60.

[0040] The support shaft 60 is, in particular, an elongated cylindrical member and / or is spaced from the base 30. The support shaft 60 is held in place by one or more, in particular a plurality of posts 62. The posts 62 are generally planar members formed integrally with the base 30. For illustrative purposes, the first attachment structure 52 is shown as having four posts 62. The plurality of posts 62 are spaced from one another to at least partially receive a corresponding gripper 54. Accordingly, the first attachment structure 52 is configured to allow the connector support 46 to rotate or pivot about the support shaft 60.

[0041] In a particular embodiment, the connector support 46 includes a latch mechanism 64. The latch mechanism 64 is configured to (particularly selectively) secure the connector support 46 to the bottom cover 16 when the connector support 46 is in the closed position CP. In one aspect, the latch mechanism 64 is particularly or includes a resilient extension 66 formed on the connector support 46 (particularly a front wall 46a thereof). The resilient extension 66 is a generally elongated member. A bottom portion of the resilient extension 66 is integrally formed on the connector support 46 (particularly the front wall 46a thereof).A rear surface 66a of the resilient extension 66 is spaced from the connector support 46 (in particular, the front wall 46a thereof).

[0042] Again with reference to Fig. 5 and now on Fig. 8, the bottom cover 16 further includes at least one key structure 68. The key structure 68 is configured to engage the resilient extension 66. The key structure 68 is formed on the bottom cover 16 (specifically, one of the first sidewalls 24 thereof). The key structure 68 is specifically a generally planar member having a U-shaped cross-section. A lip 70 forms a top portion of the key structure and is disposed above a gap 72. The gap 72 is configured to receive a portion of the resilient extension 66.

[0043] Fig. 8 shows the resilient tab 66 engaging the lip 70 to secure the connector support 46 in the closed position CP, with a portion of the resilient tab 66 disposed within the gap 72. Displacing (e.g., pulling) the resilient tab 66 toward the front wall 46a disengages the latch mechanism 64 from the lip 70 to allow the connector support 46 to move toward or toward the open position OP.

[0044] In one embodiment, the connector support 46 includes an open retention feature 74 as shown in Fig. 7 and Fig. 13. The open retention feature 74 is configured to (particularly selectively) maintain or position the connector support 46 in the open position OP. In one embodiment, the open retention feature 74 is a nub 76. The nub 76 is illustratively shown as having a ramped cross-section with a planar leading edge 78 disposed at an angle other than 0° or 180°, preferably generally orthogonal to the connector support 46 (particularly a rear wall 46b thereof). The nub 76 is shown as being disposed on the connector support 46 (particularly the rear wall 46b thereof).

[0045] In one aspect, the rear wall 46b of the connector support 46 includes at least one spacer 80. The spacer 80 specifically includes a plurality of legs 82 (e.g., a pair thereof) connected together by a support wall 84 to space the support wall 84 away from the connector support 46 (particularly, the rear wall 46b thereof). The nub 76 may be integrally formed on the support wall 84.

[0046] The base 30 of the base cover 16 includes at least one receiving opening 86. The receiving opening 86 is configured to receive and grip the nub 76 (particularly in a substantially press-fit engagement) when the connector support 46 is in the open position OP. The junction box assembly 10 is illustratively shown as having a pair of nubs 76 and a pair of receiving openings 86. However, it should be appreciated that the number of nubs 76 and receiving openings 86 is provided for illustrative purposes, and that the retention feature 74 may include as few as one nub 76 and one receiving opening 86 or more than two of each.

[0047] As this is Fig. 13, the legs 82 are configured to position the support wall 84 a certain (predetermined or predeterminable) distance from the rear wall 46b so as to be generally flush with the bottom base 30 of the bottom cover 16 when the connector support 46 is in the open position OP. A particular ramp shape of the nub 76 helps facilitate entry of the nub 76 into the receiving opening 86 with the substantially planar leading edge 78 of the nub 76 engaging a substantially flat surface defining the receiving opening 86. Accordingly, the open retention feature 74 helps maintain or position the connector support 46 in the open position OP by causing the planar surface of the support wall 84 to be substantially flush with the planar surface.flat surface of the substrate 30, and / or by the press-fit engagement of the nub 76 within the receiving opening 86. In particular, the open retention feature 74 is configured to generally maintain the connector support 46.

[0048] In one embodiment, the junction box assembly 10 includes at least one reinforcement feature 88.

[0049] The reinforcement feature 88 is configured to help prevent the connector support 46 from becoming detached or separated from the base cover 16. In particular, the reinforcement feature 88 is configured to retain the connector support 46 to the base cover 16 when at least one bolt 400 is secured to the connector assembly. In particular, the PDB 14 includes one or more, particularly a pair of bolts 400, which are Fig. 3. The bolts 400 are or will be screwed into one or more corresponding holes 500 of the connector assemblies 200, as shown in Fig. 14. As the bolt(s) 400 engage the connector assemblies 200, the connector assemblies 200 supporting the connector support 46 may be lifted. The reinforcement feature 88 is configured to help prevent the connector support 46 from separating from the bottom cover 16.

[0050] In one embodiment, the reinforcement feature 88 includes at least one stop 90. The stop 90 is disposed on an outer surface of the post 62. The reinforcement feature 88 further includes at least one latch 92 disposed on an end wall 94 (particularly an inner surface thereof). The end wall 94 is spaced from a respective gripper 54 to define the ends of the support shaft 60. The end wall 94 is spaced from the respective gripper 54 to at least partially receive a respective post 62 between the inner surface of the end wall 94 and the respective gripper 54.

[0051] The latch 92 is disposed on the end wall 94 (particularly the inner surface thereof) and is configured to be positioned at least partially below the stop 90 when the connector support 46 is in the closed position CP, as shown in Fig. 9. When the connector support 46 is moved toward or towards the open position OP, the stop 90 is (particularly progressively) released or removed from the latch 92 to allow the connector support 46 to be removed, as shown in Fig. 12. However, since the pawl 92 is specifically located below the stop 90, the pawl 92 will engage the stop 90, which helps resist the pulling force applied to the connector support 46 when the stud 400 is bolted into the respective connector assemblies 200.

[0052] In one embodiment, the connector support 46 includes at least one fluid or water attenuation feature 96. The fluid or water attenuation feature 96 is configured to substantially close the eyelet port opening 40. In a particular embodiment, the fluid or water attenuation feature 96 includes an eyelet port cover 98. The eyelet port cover 98 is formed on the front wall 46a of the connector support 46. For illustrative purposes, the eyelet port cover 98 is disposed adjacent to or adjacent to the latch mechanism 64. However, it should be appreciated that the latch mechanism 64 may be disposed elsewhere within the bottom cover cavity 32 without departing from the scope of the appended claims.

[0053] The eyelet connection cover 98 includes a rear support wall 84 and one or more, in particular a pair of side support walls 100, as shown in Fig. 6. A hood 102 at least partially covers the top of the first rear wall 28 and / or includes one or more, particularly a pair of hood walls 104 spaced from the respective side support wall(s) 100 to snugly receive the partition 42 (particularly opposing portions of the partition 42) defining the side(s) of the eyelet port opening 40, as shown in Fig. 10. The rear support wall 84 substantially covers the eyelet connection opening 40, as shown in Fig. 7. Accordingly, the eyelet port opening 40 is substantially closed to prevent fluid (e.g., water) from entering the bottom cover cavity 32.

[0054] Again with reference to Fig. 7 and also on Fig. 14 and Fig. 15, the connector support 46 may further include at least one retention hook 106. The connector support 46 includes at least one connector wall 108 formed on the upper surface 48a of the base 48 of the connector support 46. The connector wall 108 forms at least one connector cavity 110 configured to at least partially receive a respective connector assembly 200. The retention hook 106 is particularly disposed along or adjacent to the connector wall 108.

[0055] For illustrative purposes, the connector support 46 is shown as having six retention hooks 106 for each connector cavity 110. The six retention hooks 106 are formed in three pairs, where the retention hooks 106 in a pair are substantially axially aligned with each other along the width of the connector cavity 110. One pair of retention hooks 106 is configured to engage a front portion of the connector assembly 200, another pair of retention hooks 106 is configured to engage a middle portion of the connector assembly 200, and the last pair of retention hooks 106 is configured to engage a rear portion of the connector assembly 200.

[0056] The retention hooks 106 are generally resilient members formed integrally with the base 48 of the connector support 46. Specifically, the retention hooks 106 include a planar body 112 and a hook portion 114 formed on a distal end of the planar body 112. The hook portion 114 extends at least partially into the connector cavity 110. Fig. 15 shows the hook portions 114 of a pair of connector cavities engaging a lip 202 of the connector assembly 200.

[0057] Accordingly, the provided junction box assembly 10 receives or can receive a connector assembly 200, yet provides access to the base 30 of the floor cover 16 without requiring removal of the connector assembly 200. The junction box assembly 10 includes a connector support 46 configured to support a connector assembly 200.

[0058] The connector support 46 is removably attached or attachable to the base cover 16 and retains the connector assembly 200 or is configured to retain it to allow access to the base cover 16 without removing the connector assembly 200. It should be appreciated that such a design allows for greater design flexibility for the base cover 16 to incorporate the use of eyelet terminals 36 or any other electrical components that may enhance the functionality of the junction box assembly 10.

[0059] Accordingly, a junction box assembly 10 is provided that is configured to provide access to a bottom of the base cover 16 without having to disconnect the connector assembly 14. The junction box assembly 10 includes a removable connector support 46. The connector support 46 is configured to hold at least one connector assembly 200. The connector support 46 is removably attached or attachable to a base cover 16 to provide access to a bottom of the base cover 16.In one embodiment, the connector support 46 is rotatably or pivotably mounted to a bottom or base cover 16 of the junction box assembly 10 to move between an open position OP (first position) and a closed position CP (second position), wherein in the closed position CP a bottom of the bottom or base cover 16 is substantially covered and in the open position OP the bottom or base is at least partially exposed.

[0060] While particular embodiments have been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that various other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover, although various aspects of the claimed subject matter have been described herein, such aspects need not be used in combination. Therefore, it is intended that the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that fall within the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.

Claims

[1] Junction box assembly (10) for receiving at least one connector assembly (200), the junction box assembly (10) comprising: a power distribution box (14); a base cover (16) having a base cover cavity (32) and an open top, wherein the power distribution box (14) is dimensioned to be mounted on the base cover (16) to close the open side (32a); and a connector support (46) removably attachable to the base cover (16), the connector support (46) being configured to hold the connector assembly (200) and being sized to fit within the base cover cavity (32) and adjacent to the power distribution box (14), wherein the connector support (46) is rotatably or pivotably coupled to the base cover (16) and is movable between a first position (OP) and a second position (CP), wherein in the first position (OP) a bottom of the base cover (16) is at least partially exposed, wherein the connector support (46) includes at least one gripper (54) disposed on the connector support (46), and the base cover (16) includes at least one shaft (60), the gripper (54) being configured to grip the shaft (60) to rotate or pivot the connector support (46) about the shaft (60). [2] The junction box assembly (10) of claim 1, wherein the gripper (54) includes at least a pair of arms (56), the pair of arms (56) being resilient, the pair of arms (56) being spaced apart from each other to define a slotted shaft (58). [3] The junction box assembly (10) of claim 2, wherein an inner surface of each of the pair of arms (56) is substantially curved. [4] The junction box assembly (10) of claim 3, further including one or more supports (62), wherein the support (62) is a generally planar member formed integrally or unitarily with the base cover (16), the support (62) supporting the stem (60) above the bottom of the base cover (16). [5] The junction box assembly (10) of any one of the preceding claims 2 to 4, further comprising at least one latching mechanism (64) configured to secure the connector support (46) to the base cover (16) when the connector support (46) is in the second position (CP), the latching mechanism (64) preferably comprising a resilient projection (66). [6] The junction box assembly (10) of claim 5, wherein the resilient projection (66) is disposed on a front wall of the connector support (46) and is configured to engage at least one lip (70) disposed within the base cover (16), the resilient projection (66) can be pushed to release the resilient projection (66) from the lip (70) and free the connector support (46) to move from the second position (CP) to the first position (OP), the base cover (16) including at least one wedge structure (68), the wedge structure (68) is formed on a first side wall of the base cover (16), the wedge structure (68) is preferably a generally U-shaped member, the lip (70) preferably defining an upper portion of the generally U-shaped member and a gap (72) adjacent to or below the lip (70) is arranged,the gap (72) is configured to receive a portion of the resilient extension (66). [7] The junction box assembly (10) of any one of the preceding claims 2 to 6, wherein the connector support (46) includes at least one open retention feature (74), the open retention feature (74) is configured to maintain the connector support (46) in the first position (OP), the open retention feature (74) preferably including at least one nub (76) and at least one receiving opening (86), the nub (76) is disposed on a rear wall of the connector support (46) and the receiving opening (86) is disposed on the bottom of the base cover (16), the nub (76) is oriented to engage the receiving opening (86), preferably in a press-fit engagement, when the connector support (46) is in the first position (OP), and / or wherein the nub (76) preferably has a ramp-shaped cross-section with a planar front edge generally orthogonal to the rear wall of the connector support (46),and / or wherein the junction box assembly (10) preferably further includes at least one spacer (80), the spacer (80) includes a pair of legs (82) and a support wall (84), the pair of legs (82) being spaced apart from one another and arranged at an angle other than 0° or 180°, preferably substantially orthogonal to the connector support (46), the support wall (84) at least partially interconnecting the pair of legs (82), the nub (76) being arranged on an outer surface of the support wall (84). [8] The junction box assembly (10) of any one of the preceding claims 3 to 7, further including at least one reinforcement feature (88) configured to help prevent the connector support (46) from disengaging from the base cover (16) when the connector support (46) is in the second position (CP) and to allow the connector support (46) to be released from the base cover (16) when the connector support (46) is in the first position (OP), wherein the reinforcement feature (88) preferably includes a latch (92) and the base cover (16) includes a stop (90) and a post (62), the post (62) being a generally planar member formed integrally or unitarily with the base cover (16), the post (62) supporting the stem (60) above the bottom of the base cover (16), the pawl (92) is fixedly arranged on an inner surface of an end wall (94),wherein the end wall (94) is spaced from the gripper (54) to receive the support (62), the stop (90) being disposed on an outer surface of the support (62), the pawl (92) being disposed below the stop when the connector support (46) is in the second position (CP). [9] Junction box assembly (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the base cover (16) has at least one eyelet connection opening (40) and one eyelet connection support (84;86) and at least one fluid attenuation feature (96) configured to close the eyelet port opening (40) to prevent fluid from entering the base cover cavity (32), wherein the base cover (16) further includes at least one partition (42) defining the eyelet port opening (40), and wherein the fluid attenuation feature (96) is preferably disposed on the connector support (46) and includes a rear support wall (84), a pair of side support walls (100), and / or a hood (102), wherein the hood (102) covers a top surface of the rear support wall (84), wherein the fluid attenuation feature (96) further includes a pair of hood walls (104) spaced from respective side support walls (100) to matingly define opposing portions the separation (42) which defines the eyelet connection opening (40); [10] The junction box assembly (10) of any preceding claim, wherein the connector support (46) includes at least one connector wall (108) formed on the connector support (46), preferably on an upper surface of a base of the connector support (46), the connector wall(s) (108) defining at least one connector cavity (110) configured to at least partially receive the connector assembly (200), at least one retention hook (106) preferably disposed along or on the connector wall (108) configured to engage the connector assembly (200).

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