Apparatus which integrates a time control into a detachable power cord
First Claim
1. An apparatus which integrates a time control into a detachable power cord comprising:
- an integral power input cord having a power input connector capable of being connected directly to a power source;
an integral power output cord having a power output connector capable of being connected directly to an electrical load;
a switch means for enabling or disabling power to said power output cord;
a load status detection means for determining whether said electrical load is ON or OFF;
a timekeeping means for tracking time-of-day;
a programmable time limit scheme which defines time-based restrictions for usage of said electrical load;
a control means which monitors said load status detection means and said timekeeping means, and controls said switch means as defined by said time limit scheme;
a non-volatile storage means for retaining data from said timekeeping means and said time limit scheme when input power is removed;
a security means for gaining access to, and providing security for, said timekeeping means and said time limit scheme; and
a numeric display and a plurality of pushbuttons for system interaction and data entry.
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Abstract
An apparatus which integrates a time control into a detachable power cord. The invention includes an integral power input cord having a power input connector capable of being connected directly to a power source, an integral power output cord having a power output connector capable of being connected directly to an electrical load, a switch for enabling or disabling power to the power output cord, a load status detector for determining whether the electrical load is ON or OFF, a timekeeping mechanism for tracking time-of-day, programmable time limits for restricting usage of the electrical load, non-volatile storage for critical data, secure access to time and program data, and a numeric display and pushbuttons for system interaction. The invention provides inherent security because the timer is integral to the power cord, thus the timer cannot be bypassed. Further, no mechanical locking mechanisms are required to capture a secondary power cord.
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Citations
18 Claims
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1. An apparatus which integrates a time control into a detachable power cord comprising:
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an integral power input cord having a power input connector capable of being connected directly to a power source;
an integral power output cord having a power output connector capable of being connected directly to an electrical load;
a switch means for enabling or disabling power to said power output cord;
a load status detection means for determining whether said electrical load is ON or OFF;
a timekeeping means for tracking time-of-day;
a programmable time limit scheme which defines time-based restrictions for usage of said electrical load;
a control means which monitors said load status detection means and said timekeeping means, and controls said switch means as defined by said time limit scheme;
a non-volatile storage means for retaining data from said timekeeping means and said time limit scheme when input power is removed;
a security means for gaining access to, and providing security for, said timekeeping means and said time limit scheme; and
a numeric display and a plurality of pushbuttons for system interaction and data entry. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18)
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Specification
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- Resources
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Current AssigneeRick Alan Pecore
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Original AssigneeRick Alan Pecore
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InventorsPecore, Rick Alan
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Application NumberUS11/053,393Publication NumberTime in Patent OfficeDaysField of SearchUS Class Current361/230CPC Class CodesH01R 13/70 with built-in switchH01R 31/065 with built-in electric appa...
