Fast set screw device for non-metallic boxes

Abstract

A non-metallic electrical wiring box having a fast set screw mounting socket for mounting electrical devices inside the box. The box includes a pair of side walls, a pair of end walls, a back wall, a front opening and one or more fast set screw mounting sockets in each end wall, or connected to each end wall, for receiving a mounting screw. Each socket includes: a socket wall, preferably a cylindrically-shaped wall, an interior wall surface, a first end, a second end and a mid-region. The first end corresponds to the front opening of the box and the mid-region is between the first and second ends of the fast set screw mounting socket. Each socket also has a center slot in the socket wall, which preferably bisects the socket wall and extends from about the mid-region to the second end of the socket and defines two or more flexible socket wall sections.

Description

[0001] This application claims priority from provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 697,664, filed on Jul. 8, 2005.FIELD OF THE INVENTION [0002] The present invention relates to electrical outlet or junction boxes and more specifically to a box with a mounting feature for quickly and easily installing electrical devices in the box. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION [0003] An electrical junction or outlet box provides an enclosure for an electrical device, such as a receptacle, as well as a termination point for wires carrying electrical current through buildings, houses and other structures. Wiring entering an outlet box is typically connected to a particular electrical fixture or receptacle such as a plug outlet or switch. The box is then typically covered by a face plate having an opening therein to allow access to the outlet or switch while preventing electrified components from being exposed. Outlet boxes may be employed in concealed-wiring installations in which they are located within a wa...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a non-metallic electrical wiring box with fast set screw mounting sockets for mounting electrical devices. The box has a unique design with flexible socket walls that can accommodate mounting screws. The box also includes side slots and a center slot in each end wall, which allow for easy installation of screws. The end walls have interior sides and the sockets are connected to the interior surfaces of the end walls. The technical effects of this invention include improved flexibility, ease of installation, and durability of the electrical wiring box."

Problems solved by technology

However, both of these types of retaining devices have disadvantages.

Images