Illuminated electrical cords and outlets

• US 20050124209A1
• Filed: 09/24/2004
• Published: 06/09/2005
• Est. Priority Date: 02/14/2002
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Plastic Inventions and Patents, Inc.
• Original Assignee: Plastic Inventions and Patents, Inc.
• Inventors: Robertson, Jonas J., Currie, Robert M.
• Granted Patent: US 7,121,707 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 439/490
• CPC Class Codes: H01B 7/36 with distinguishing or length marks
• CPC Class Codes: H01R 13/7172 Conduits for light transmission
• CPC Class Codes: H01R 13/7175 Light emitting diodes (LEDs)
• CPC Class Codes: Y10S 362/80 Light emitting diode

Abstract

A number of different embodiments of illuminated electrical cords and outlets are provided. Some embodiments include a light source within at least one connector end of an electrical cord, with the cord having a translucent outer cover for emitting the light radially from the connector end light source. The cord may be a household electrical or extension cord, a computer power supply cord, auxiliary power cord, etc., as desired. A kit may be provided to adapt a conventional, non-illuminated cord to provide illumination therefrom. Other embodiments include electrical outlets, adapters, and power strips having a light source(s) therein, for illuminating an electrical cord installed in the electrical power source. The outlets, adapters, and power strips may include differently colored lighting, and/or multiple colored lenses for manual or automated selection of color output. Battery power may be provided, with automated switching in the event of a primary power failure.

Claims

1. An illuminated electrical supply line, comprising:

an electrical cord having a first end and a second end opposite said first end;

at least one electrical conductor disposed within said electrical cord;

a first end connector and a second end connector extending respectively from said first end and said second end of said electrical cord;

an electrically insulating, translucent cover surrounding said at least one electrical conductor and emitting light received therein, radially therefrom in a continuous array; and

a light disposed at one of said end connectors, selectively emitting light outwardly therefrom and into said translucent cover of said electrical cord, when activated.