1. This class is for inventions relating to the structure
of electrical conductors and insulators and insulators and the apparatus
specialized to mounting, supporting, encasing in conduits, and/or
housing the same.
2. Conductors may be bare or be encased in insulation, may
be single strand or plural strand, may be of single conductor form
or there may be a plurality of conductors associated together to
form a cable.
3. Since all materials that have the property of being conductors
of electricity and all devices made therefrom may be termed electrical
conductors, only those structures that are specially designed to
conduct electricity as their proximate purpose are placed in this
class.
4. Insulators are placed here when the structure thereof is
claimed, which structure is specially designed for spacing two or
more devices of different electrical potential from each other or
for spacing one or more devices from ground.
5. Since all materials which are poor conductors of electricity
and devices made therefrom may be termed electrical insulators,
only those structures whose proximate purpose is that stated in
the preceding paragraph are placed in this class.
6. Conduits are placed in this class only when some characteristic
is claimed which limits the same to the electrical use. For reasons
above stated, the fact, claimed or unclaimed, that the conduit is
made of electrically conductive and/or insulative material,
will not cause classification in this class. Cable systems and components
are classified elsewhere. See References to Other Classes, below.
SECTION II - LINES WITH OTHER CLASSES AND WITHIN THIS CLASS
1. Housings (boxes, receptacles, containers, etc.) are placed
in this class only when limited to electrical use. The mere fact,
claimed or unclaimed, that the material of which the box or housing
is composed is conductive, and/or insulative, will not
cause classification in this class. See D, Housing, Boxes Or Receptacles,
below. To be classified in this class, the claims must include some
structure which limits the box or housings to electrical use. The
recitation that the box or housings include an electrical device,
recited by name only, is sufficient to cause classification in this
class even though no other structure is recited which limits the
box or housings to electrical use. This class includes as boxes,
housings or envelopes such as are used for electric lamps, electric
space discharge devices, and similar electrical devices which are
enclosed in vitreous, ceramic, nonmetallic plastic or metallic housings
or envelopes. Where such subject matter is otherwise properly within
the scope of this class, the mere naming of the type of lamp or
discharge device as being the device within the housing or envelope
will not exclude the patent from this class. Neither will the recitation
of an electrode broadly recited within the housing or envelope exclude
the patent from this class although if the electrode is claimed
as a filament, anode, grid or other specific electrode, the patent
will be excluded. Also, the recitation of electrode supporting structure
when broadly recited or when recited so as to be of general utility
will not exclude the patent from this class. For example, means
for supporting an electrode assembly, or lead-in wires supporting
an electrode will not exclude the patent from Class 174. Where
the supporting structure is limited to use with electric lamp or
discharge device structure, the patent is excluded from Class 174 and
will be found elsewhere. For such envelopes and housings in this
class, where the envelope is provided with means peculiarly adapted
for use in connection with a vacuum, gas or fluid (but not merely
a hermetically sealed envelope designed for use with a vacuum or gas
filling where no structure peculiarly adapted for use with a vacuum
or fluid except the hermetic seals is claimed) see Subclass References
to the Current Class, below. Where the structure includes a current
conductive fluid (e.g., a liquid used as a part of the lead-in structure)
or where a vacuum is used (e.g., as a space around the lead-in designed
to be continuously evacuated to reduce leakage of air or gas), see
Subclass References to the Current Class, below. Where the envelope or
housing has combined therewith means for feeding, circulating or
distributing a fluid including means to cool the fluid or has means
to cool the box or housing or the device therein where the cooling
means involves the use of a fluid, see Subclass References to the
Current Class, below. For miscellaneous envelopes, boxes and housings,
see Subclass References to the Current Class, below. For miscellaneous
hermetically sealed envelopes and housing (including housings which
are provided with an evacuating stem or opening or which use a liquid
to form the hermetic seal) see Subclass References to the Current
Class, below. For structures which are bushings or other devices
for insulating a conductor or object from a wall or plate through
which the conductor or object passes, see Subclass References to
the Current Class, below. For such envelopes and housings provided
with an electric shield which wholly or partially surrounds the
envelope and for such envelopes and housings which include means
to shield the housing or a part there of from electromagnetic or
electrostatic effects, see Subclass References to the Current Class, below.
For miscellaneous such boxes and housings, see Subclass References
to the Current Class, below. For miscellaneous hermetically sealed
envelopes and housings in this class, including those provided with
lead-in wires or other conductive means for conducting electricity
to the device within the housing, see References to Other Classes,
below. Note that this class provides for devices (e.g., bushings)
for insulating a conductor from a wall or plate (such as a metallic
envelope wall) through which the conductor extends, the bushing
may be fluid tight and include a glass to metal seal. See Subclass
References to the Current Class, below.
2. The main use of electrical conductors is to conduct electricity
to an electric translator for using the same. Such electric translators
are frequently positioned in the conductor conduit or housing. The
mere inclusion of such translator broadly in the claim, without
setting forth the characteristics thereof, will not exclude the same
from this class but where particular characteristics of the electric
translator are claimed, classification is in the class appropriate
to such translator.
Whereas housings for electronic devices and components are
also provided for elsewhere, Class 257 provides for housings (1)
wherein the housing is for an active solid state device, details
of which are positively recited in the claims, or (2) wherein the
recited housing is necessary to make a usable active solid state
device whether or not the active solid state device is recited nominally
or in detail.
Claims that recite housings with only nominal recitation of
active solid state devices of only one type should not be classified
as originals (ORs) in either Class 257 or Class 361, but rather
in Class 174.
3. Processes other than manufacturing processes, are classified
in this class in the subclasses with the correlative structures.
A. MISCELLANEOUS
Compounds and compositions which are dielectrics, and their
manufacture, are classified elsewhere. Ceramic compositions useful
as electrical insulators are classified elsewhere. Compositions
containing a synthetic resin having utility as a filling or flooding
composition for cables or to processes of preparing said composition are
also classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)
The claimed combination of conductor, coated or covered with the
dielectric, is in this class (174) when such combination includes
some structure of the conductor other than a mere wire, cable, etc., coated
with the dielectric. Fluid dielectrics and processes which cover
merely the use of the fluid dielectric to insulate electrically
conducting elements from each other or from ground are elsewhere.
The combination of such fluid dielectrics with particular structure,
or processes of use with particular structure or with conducting
elements bearing particular relations to each other, are in this
class (174) or in another appropriate electrical art class.
Processes and apparatus for making wire and filaments regardless
of the material used are elsewhere. Processes for wire or filament
making combined with a coating or covering operation for conductors
which are no more than metal stock, even though claimed as being
electric conductors are elsewhere. Process or an apparatus for making
or reshaping a wire by a mere plastic metal working operation, e.g.,
die-drawing are elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)
For apparatus for coating conductors, see References to Other
Classes, below.
Class 57, Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, takes
processes and/or apparatus for making conductors by operations
within the class definition and also takes patents to conductor
structure where the apparatus and/or process is also claimed.
Patents claiming only conductor structure are in this class (174).
Class 57 takes patents to strands of twisted or twined form not
limited by the claims to being conductors. This same line exists with
the other textile classes, for which see References to Other Classes,
below.
Coating Processes, per se, wherein an electrical product is
produced are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes,
below.)
Methods of making indefinite length electrical conductors
are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)
A residual mast or tower with an article support structure,
having no claimed feature of electrical significance, is classified
elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes, below.)
Metallurgical bonding, surface bonding by rod encasing, and
surface bonding with mechanical shaping are classified elsewhere.
(See References to Other Classes, below.)
B. CONDUCTORS AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Structures specially designed for transmitting electrical energy
between relatively moving objects including the structure of conduits
and conductors with the means for mounting or supporting the same,
and electrical systems specialized to this use are elsewhere.
As stated in the class definition, this class (174) pertains to
the structure of electric conductors. Substantially all art structures
of either electrical or nonelectrical character are capable of having
conductor structures associated therewith. The combination of
art devices significantly claimed with conductors is with the appropriate
art.
Electrical systems are with the appropriate art. Electrical
systems for power, control, signaling or other purposes combined
with nonelectrical art devices significantly claimed are, in general,
classified with the nonelectrical art device. Electrical conductors
in combination with particular electrical devices significantly claimed
and classifiable in other classes are with such other classes. (See
References To Other Classes, below.)
See the appropriate subclasses of this class for further notes
relative to other classes.
C. CONDUITS
Conduit structures even though claimed as electrical conduits
and/or claimed as made of electrically insulating and/or
conductive materials are classified elsewhere. In addition to the
conduit structure there must be claimed additional characteristics
such as the contained electrical conductors, electrical apparatus,
added insulators and/or other characteristics specialized
to electrical use to cause classification in this class (174). (See
References to Other Classes, below.)
A service duct within a barrier wherein a feature limited to
electrical use is not claimed is classified elsewhere. (See References
to Other Classes, below.)
Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, for tunnels and subways not
restricted solely to electrical use is classified elsewhere. (See
References to Other Classes, below.)
Conduits combined with pavement, curb or gutter structure
and not limited solely to electrical use are classified elsewhere.
(See References to Other Classes, below.)
Railways are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other
Classes, below.)
Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles is classified elsewhere.
(See References to Other Classes, below.)
See appropriate subclasses of this class for further notes relative
to other classes.
D. HOUSING, BOXES OR RECEPTACLES
When claimed in combination with the contained equipment significantly
set forth (other than the conductors and/or insulators),
they are with the class appropriate to the contained equipment.
For envelopes for electric lamps and electric space discharge
devices which are included in this class, see this section, Lines
With Other Classes and Within This Class, above.
The mere structure of the housing, box or receptacle is in
the class appropriate thereto. Housings and envelopes for electric
lamps, electric space discharge devices and similar devices where
no electrical structure is claimed, and for receptacles of the junction
or outlet type are classified elsewhere. (See References to Other Classes,
below.)
Underground installations, wall mounted, and other boxes and
housings are located herein. (See Subclass References to the Current
Class.)
This class provides for the structure of a housing, box or receptacle
and electrical connector structure for making electrical contact
between the lead-in conductors of the receptacle (i.e., the conductors
which pass through the wall of the housing, box or receptacle) and
an external circuit and for junction boxes, housings or receptacles with
electrical connectors where significant structure of the housing,
box or receptacle is recited in addition to the electrical connector
structure. Class 439 provides for housing, boxes and receptacles
with electrical connectors where no more structure is recited than
is necessary to mount or support the electrical connectors. Also, Class
439 provides for electrical connectors in combination with the housing,
box or receptacle for the connector (e.g., housed connectors) where
significant connector structure is recited.
E. INSULATORS
See A, Miscellaneous, above, and its associated search notes
in References to Other Classes, below, for dielectric compositions
and compounds.
For a references to devices for electrically insulating one
or more conductors or other articles or structures from one another
or from a supporting structure or ground, see Subclass References
to the Current Class, below.
SECTION III - SUBCLASS REFERENCES TO THE CURRENT CLASS
where the envelope is provided with means peculiarly
adapted for use in connection with a vacuum, gas or fluid (but not
merely a hermetically sealed envelope designed for use with a vacuum
or gas filling where no structure peculiarly adapted for use with
a vacuum or fluid except the hermetic seals is claimed.
where the structure includes a current conductive
fluid (e.g., a liquid used as a part of the lead-in structure) or
where a vacuum is used (e.g., as a space around the lead-in designed
to be continuously evacuated to reduce leakage of air or gas).
where the envelope or housing has combined therewith
means for feeding, circulating or distributing a fluid including
means to cool the fluid or has means to cool the box or housing or
the device therein where the cooling means involves the use of a
fluid.
for the miscellaneous hermetically sealed envelopes
and housing within the definition of subclass 8 (including housings
which are provided with an evacuating stem or opening or which use
a liquid to form the hermetic seal).
for structures under subclass 8 which are bushings
or other devices for insulating a conductor or object from a wall
or plate through which the conductor or object passes,
for the miscellaneous hermetically sealed envelopes
and housings in this class, including those provided with lead-in
wires or other conductive means for conducting electricity to the device
within the housing.
see the notes to this subclass, and the subclasses
thereunder for devices for electrically insulating one or more conductors
or other articles or structures from one another or from a supporting
structure or ground.
for devices (e.g., bushings) for insulating a conductor
from a wall or plate (such as a metallic envelope wall) through
which the conductor extends, the bushing may be fluid tight and include
a glass to metal seal.
through 397 , for such envelopes and housings provided with
an electric shield which wholly or partially surrounds the envelope
and for such envelopes and housings which include means to shield
the housing or a part thereof from electromagnetic or electrostatic
effects.
Metal Working, for processes and apparatus for making wire and filaments
regardless of the material used. Included are processes for wire or
filament making combined with a coating or covering operation; see
subclasses 400.1+ , especially subclass 460 where conductor parts are
assembled and then coated, subclass 461 where a stranded conductor
is joined to another member by spreading the conductor strands, and
subclasses 527.1+ where a coating operation is involved.
(See Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclass 40 for a residual mast or tower with an article support
structure, having no claimed feature of electrical significance.
(Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous").
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 220.1+ for a service duct within a barrier wherein a feature
limited to electrical use is not claimed. (Lines With Other Classes, "Conduits").
Textiles: Spinning, Twisting, and Twining, takes processes and/or apparatus for making conductors
by operations within the class definition and also takes patents
to conductor structure where the apparatus and/or process
is also claimed. Patents claiming only conductor structure are
in this class (174), Class 57 taking in
subclass 200 and indented subclasses patents to strands of twisted
or twined form not limited by the claims to being conductors. (Lines
With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous").
Metal Deforming, takes a process or an apparatus for making or reshaping
a wire by a mere plastic metal working operation, e.g., die-drawing.
(See Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
Compositions: Coating or Plastic, appropriate subclasses for compounds and compositions which
are dielectrics, and their manufacture. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
Pipes and Tubular Conduits, for conduit structures even though claimed as electrical
conduits and/or claimed as made of electrically insulating
and/or conductive materials. See Class 138 and the notes
appended to the definitions. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Conduits," above.)
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclasses 47+ takes methods of making indefinite length electrical
conductors not elsewhere provided for. (Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous").
Telegraphy,
subclass 45 for wave transmission systems having loaded cable
structures. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Conductors
and Electrical Systems").
Elevator, Industrial Lift Truck, or Stationary Lift
for Vehicle,
subclasses 277+ for an electrical control system for an elevator
car drive means and subclass 413 for a specific arrangement or connection
of an electrical service line with other elevator structure. (See
Lines With Other Classes, "Conductors and Electrical Systems").
Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, has structures specially designed for transmitting electrical
energy between relatively moving objects including the structure
of conduits and conductors with the means for mounting or supporting
the same, and electrical systems specialized to this use. (Lines
With Other Classes, "Conductors and Electrical Systems,"above.)
Mineral Oils: Processes and Products, appropriate subclasses for compounds and compositions
which are dielectrics, and their manufacture. (See Lines With Other
Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
Receptacles,
subclass 2.1 for housings and envelopes for electric lamps,
electric space discharge devices and similar devices where no electrical
structure is claimed, and subclasses 3.2+ for receptacles
of the junction or outlet type. (Lines With Other Classes, "Housing, Boxes
Or Receptacles").
Metal Fusion Bonding, is the generic class for metallurgical bonding and includes
(see
subclasses 126+ ) surface bonding by rod encasing and includes (see
subclasses 141.1+) surface bonding with mechanical shaping.
Compositions, for fluid dielectrics and processes which cover
merely the use of the fluid dielectric to insulate electrically
conducting elements from each other or from ground. (See Lines With
Other Classes, "Miscellaneous,"" above.)
Chemistry of Carbon Compounds, appropriate subclasses for compounds and compositions which
are dielectrics, and their manufacture. See
subclasses 2.01+ . (See Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems, appropriate subclasses for electrical distribution
systems or systems for interconnecting two or more sources of electricity
and/or two or more loads. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Conductors
and Electrical Systems").
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, for supporting structure limited to use with electric lamp
or discharge device structure. (Lines With Other Classes and Within
This Class).
Electrical Resistors, especially
subclass 209 for extensible resistors, subclasses 210+ for flexible
or folding resistors, including subclass 214 for cable type resistors,
subclasses 226+ for incased, embedded or housed resistors,
subclass 321 for resistance element cores and frames which may be
of insulating material, and subclass 322 for resistors with terminals.
See Lines With Other Classes, "Conduits, Cables, and Conductors
With Resistive Material" and "Resistance Components
and Subcombinations" in the class definition under Class
338 for certain classification lines relating to this subject matter.
(See Lines With Other Classes, "Conductors and Electrical
Systems").
Telephonic Communications,
subclasses 90.01+ and indented subclasses having composite electrical
systems and subclass 415 and indented subclasses having anti-inductive
systems. (See Lines With Other Classes, "Conductors and
Electrical Systems").
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclasses 3 , 4+, and 17+ for conduits combined with
pavement, curb or gutter structure and not limited solely to electrical
use. (Lines With Other Classes, "Conduits").
Hydraulic and Earth Engineering,
subclasses 132+ , for tunnels and subways not restricted solely
to electrical use. (Lines With Other Classes, "Conduits").
Chemistry of Inorganic Compounds, appropriate subclasses for compounds and compositions
which are dielectrics, and their manufacture. (See Lines With Other
Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses, for stock material, particularly
in plural layer form, which may be disclosed as having the property
of electrical conductivity or insulation. (Lines With Other Classes, "Conductors
and Electrical Systems").
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 544+ for conductors which are no more than metal stock,
even though claimed as being electric conductors. (Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous").
Synthetic Resins or Natural Rubbers,
subclass 173 for a composition containing a synthetic resin
having utility as a filling or flooding composition for cables or
to processes of preparing said composition. (Lines With Other Classes, "Miscellaneous").
Chemistry of Hydrocarbon Compounds, appropriate subclasses for compounds and compositions
which are dielectrics, and their manufacture. (See Lines With
Other Classes, "Miscellaneous," above.)
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures for protecting life and/or property
from atmospheric electrical discharges, due to either a direct stroke
or due to induction from the discharge.
(1)
Note. For related subject matter in this class, see Search
This Class, Subclass, below.
(2)
Note. Where significant structure of the device protected
is claimed, in addition to that necessary to define the lightning protective
means, the classification is with the device, with a cross-reference here.
(3)
Note. Art structures made of conductive and/or insulative
materials are with the appropriate art, even though claimed to be
for lightning protective purposes.
(4)
Note. Collection of atmospheric electricity is elsewhere.
See the Search Class notes below.
(5)
Note. Protection of electrical equipment from electrical
disturbances including over-voltage is with the appropriate art even
though the disturbance is disclosed and claimed as due to lightning.
See the Search Class notes below.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclasses 1+ for miscellaneous safety systems for protecting electrical
apparatus and subclasses 61+ for lightning arresters; subclasses 212+ for
discharging of static charges.
This subclass is indented under subclass 2. Structures claiming only lightning rod conductor structure.
The complete rod includes its appurtenances, such as the air terminal
at one end, grounding means at the other end, mounting devices,
etc.
(1)
Note. Systems of lightning rods and lightning rods claimed
in combination with the device protected are elsewhere in this class.
(2)
Note. Conduit, cable and conductor structure of general application
and for conductor structure, per se, including that claimed as lightning
rods, are elsewhere in this class.
(3)
Note. For conductor supports, for a supporting device having
means for receiving a staff, and for pipe or cable supports, see
the search notes below.
Supports, particularly
subclasses 511+ , for a supporting device having means for receiving
a staff, and subclass 49 and indented subclasses, for pipe or cable
supports.
Miscellaneous structures for protecting persons or animals
against electrical shock. Included, for example, are (1) covers
or guards adapted to be positioned about a charged conductor or other
electrical equipment for preventing accidental contact therewith;
(2) devices for insulating the body of a person or animal from ground;
and (3) devices forming a shunt path from a charged conductor to
ground in the event of accidental contact therewith.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not take mere sheathed or insulated
wires or cables, nor conductors which are installed in conduits,
for which see this class, subclass 68.1 and indented subclasses;
but short lengths of insulation tubes or sleeves adapted to be positioned
about an exposed position of conductor to prevent contact therewith
by persons or animals are here.
(2)
Note. Protective devices of the character provided for here,
but limited by structure to use with specific electric apparatus,
are classified in the appropriate apparatus class.
(3)
Note. For art structure, in general, formed in whole or in
part of insulating material or otherwise constructed to protect
the wearer or user against electrical shock, see the appropriate
art class.
Handling: Hand and Hoist-Line Implements,
subclass 19 and indented subclasses for devices for temporarily holding
and handling conductors while insulators are being changed.
Electrical Connectors, appropriate subclasses for connector coupling devices
having insulation or barrier means to prevent contact with the "live" parts
thereof.
Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,
subclass 51.09 for such devices having automatic means for deenergizing
the contacts upon separation of the coupling parts.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures having means specially designed to make intimate
contact with the earth to establish electrical connection between a
conductor and the earth.
Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 146+ , 153+, 155+, and 292+ for
earth anchors or shafts, e.g., poles with anchors or bases, not
limited to use as earth grounds.
Chemistry: Electrical and Wave Energy,
subclasses 196.01+ , especially subclasses 196.21 and 196.36 earth
grounds employed with means for applying an electrical current or potential
to prevent corrosion, scale formation or other objectionable action
upon an object which may be placed upon or within the ground.
Electrical Connectors,
subclasses 92+ for an electrical connector with circuit conductors
and safety grounding provision; and subclasses 207+ for
an electrical connector combined with a conduit or duct therefor.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures in which a vacuum or fluid is employed or having
means peculiarly adapted for use in connection with a vacuum or
with material in a fluid condition.
(1)
Note. In the subject matter for this class, all spaces are
subject to being filled with insulating material in a fluid or solid condition.
Thus when the claims define structure which will provide such space, classification
will be made in subclasses 8+ only when the claims are
limited to the use of fluid or presence of a vacuum and/or
are limited to structure which will have its intended function because
of the use of materials in fluid condition or the presence of a
vacuum. This principle is further stated in particular Notes to
the indented subclasses.
(2)
Note. Even though the material is disclosed as being of a
character which will subsequently harden, if the means claimed provides
for using or handling such material in a fluid condition, it is
in this subclass or the indented subclasses. The fluid may be in
any state, i.e., a liquid, gas, or vapor.
(3)
Note. Where the sole fluid is the atmosphere exterior to
the device, it is excluded, even though means to seal or otherwise
keep moisture or air out is claimed.
(3.5)
Note. See Lines With Other Classes, 1., and "Housing,
Boxes or Receptacles" of the class definition for the subject
matter included in this and the indented subclasses. Note that
this and the indented subclasses include housings and envelopes
for electric lamps, electric space discharge devices and similar
devices which are within the class and subclass definition. See
especially indented subclasses 9, 15.1+, 17+ (see
17.05+ for the hermetically sealed envelopes and housings)
and subclass 31. Note that merely stating that the housing or envelope
is for a vacuum or gas filled tube will not cause classification
in this or the indented subclass even though hermetic seals for
the housing or envelope are claimed.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 11+ provides for electric lamps and electric space
discharge devices which are provided with means for modifying the
temperature of the lamp or discharge device (including such devices
where a fluid is used as the temperature modifying medium), subclasses
567+ provides for lamps and discharge devices which have
an envelope containing a gas or vapor, subclasses 231.01+ provides
for discharge devices having means for introducing a fluent material
to the discharge space and for lamps and discharge devices having means
for directing the flow of fluent material in the lamp or discharge device.
Wave Transmission Lines and Networks,
subclasses 219+ for resonators (e.g., cavity type) and subclasses 236+ for
long lines (e.g., wave guide type) in which a vacuum, gas or fluid is
employed.
Inductor Devices, provides in
subclasses 55+ for transformer and inductive reactor structure
with means to modify the temperature of the structure (including
where a fluid is used as a temperature modifier).
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures in which a fluid designed to carry an electric
current is utilized; or in which a vacuum is employed for any purpose.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes devices within the class definition
having as a part thereof an electric conductor formed by a fluid
(e.g., mercury).
Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers,
subclasses 32 , 81.6 and 152 for electric circuit makers and breakers
in which contact is made through a conducting fluid, usually mercury.
Receptacles,
subclasses 2.1+ for envelopes and housings which are designed to
be evacuated for electric lamps, electric space discharge devices
and similar devices where no electrical structure is claimed.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate subclasses for electric space discharge devices which
have an evacuated or gas or vapor filled envelope and in which a part
of the current path is the evacuated or gas or vapor filled space,
and
subclasses 233 and 315+ for electric lamps which are
provided with an evacuated envelope.
Electricity: Magnetically Operated Switches, Magnets,
and Electromagnets,
subclasses 47+ for electromagnetically activated switches in which contact
is made through a conductive fluid.
Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches,
subclass 21 for electrothermal or thermal switches employing
conductive fluid, subclasses 25+ for such switches combined
with electric discharge means and subclasses 28+ for similar switches
combined with space discharge devices.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Cables and conduits having means associated therewith intended
to be used only prior to or during installation of the device, as
during shipment or storage.
Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or
Pulling Force,
subclasses 134.3+ for conductors not having significant electrical
features and cables in combination with wire-placing means, see
Class
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures including (1) means responsive to some condition
of the fluid (for example, temperature, pressure or flow) to operate
some device (for example, valves, switches or indicators), (2) also
all combinations with signaling or indicating means, including liquid
level gauges.
(1)
Note. Fluid pressure operated valves are included.
(2)
Note. This subclass does not include mere expansion and contraction
devices which compensate for changes in volume of the fluid, unless
associated with fluid controlled or indicating means. Such expansion
and contraction devices are elsewhere in this class.
(3)
Note. For signaling means and means responsive to a condition
of a fluid, and not limited to combination with subject matter of
this class (174), see the appropriate class, the following in Search Class,
below, being particularly noted.
Measuring and Testing,
subclasses 40+ , for means for detecting leaks in electrical apparatus
utilizing fluids where the structural characteristics of the electrical
apparatus are not claimed.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclass 13 for electric lamps and discharge devices with nonelectrical
means for controlling the temperature modifying medium used with
the lamp or discharge device.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems,
subclasses 112+ for electric lamps and discharge devices with electrical
means for controlling the temperature modifying medium used with
the lamp or discharge device.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclass 14 for miscellaneous electrical systems having fluid condition
response means for controlling the system for safety purposes (e.g.
opening supply circuit if cooling medium is not effective).
Expansible Chamber Devices, appropriate subclasses for an expansible chamber device,
and particularly
subclasses 34+ for a bellows type expansible chamber device, and
subclasses 89+ for a collapsible chamber type expansible
chamber device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures having means for preserving or maintaining the
character of the fluid. For example, this includes means for drying
gases, dehydrating liquids, and all forms of chemical or physical
treatment of the fluid other than mere cooling, fluid feeding, circulating
or distributing which is in this class, subclasses 15.1 and 16.
(1)
Note. Electrical equipment containing fluid dielectrics having
a preservative ingredient as the sole preserving means are not in
this subclass but in subclass 8 or other appropriate indented subclass.
(2)
Note. For processes, compositions and apparatus for purifying
materials, not limited to combination with subject matter for this
class, see the appropriate class.
Gas Separation: Processes, for processes, compositions and apparatus for purifying
materials, not limited to combination with subject matter for this
class (174).
Gas Separation: Apparatus, for processes, compositions and apparatus for purifying
materials, not limited to combination with subject matter for this
class (174).
Fluid Handling,
subclasses 455+ pipes and other fluid handling devices combined
with means responsive to a change in the conditions in the line
for maintaining or correcting the condition.
Liquid Purification or Separation,
subclasses 167.01 through 167.32for liquid purification or separation means in
a structural installation with a closed circulating system and subclass
243 for liquid purification or separation means with electrical
insulation or electricity discharge.
Gas and Liquid Contact Apparatus, for processes, compositions and apparatus for purifying
materials, not limited to combination with subject matter for this
class (174).
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 545 through 566for electric lamps and electronic tubes which are
provided with a getter or gas or vapor generating material to preserve,
maintain, or used to secure a desired vacuum or gas or vapor atmosphere
within the envelope of the device.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Subject matter combined with means for feeding, circulating
or distributing a fluid or with means for cooling either the fluid
or the apparatus.
(1)
Note. See Lines With Other Classes, above, section 1., for
the lines between this subclass, other subclasses in this class,
and elsewhere for housings and envelopes for electrical devices.
Refrigeration, appropriate subclasses for material and space refrigerating processes
and apparatus, particularly
subclass 259.2 for cooling of an electrical component.
Heat Exchange, appropriate subclasses for miscellaneous heat transfer apparatus
including boxes or housings in combination with means to modify their
temperature.
Active Solid-State Devices (e.g.,Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), appropriate subclasses for active solid-state semiconductor
devices, per se, especially
subclass 468 for cryogenically cooled active semiconductor devices, and
subclasses 714-716 for liquid cooled active semiconductor devices.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclasses 274.1+ and 276 for electrostatic capacitors provided with
cooling or heat dissipating means, and subclasses 379 and 381+ for
cooling of electrical and electronic components.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.1. Subject matter wherein cooling is provided by means of a
heat-transfer device consisting of a sealed metal tube with an inner
lining or wicklike capillary material and a small amount of fluid
which undergoes a change of state.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.1. Subject matter for (a) a through wall insulator (bushing)
or, (b) a form of terminal sealed to the sheath of an electrical
cable for making a moisture-proof connection with an external cable
or conductor (pothead).
Superconductor Technology: Apparatus, Material,
Process, particularly
subclasses 230+ for high temperature (greater than 30 K) superconducting wire,
tape, cable, or fibers, and art collection subclass 885 for superconductors
operating at or below 30 K.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.4. Subject matter wherein a cryogenic fluid is applied to a
cable, a conductor or a joint between two or more conductors.
(1)
Note. This subclass provides for superconductive cables,
conductors or joints wherein a means for cooling or some feature
particularly adapting the device for use with a cryogenic cooling
fluid is included.
(2)
Note. Subject matter classifiable in this subclass should
not be cross referenced in subclass 125.1 of this class.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.1. Subject matter wherein a cryogenic fluid is applied to a
cable, a conductor or a joint between two or more conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 15.1. Subject matter in which means are provided for ventilating
a chamber or space containing gas or for circulating a gas therethrough.
Drying and Gas or Vapor Contact With Solids, appropriate subclass for apparatus for drying conductors
and insulators not built in as part of the structure thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 16.1. Subject matter for ventilating bus bars or bus ducts or
circulating gas through or around bus bars or bus ducts.
This subclass is indented under subclass 16.1. Subject matter including a conductive heat transfer device,
e.g., a "heat sink", to conduct heat from the
object being cooled to the air or other gaseous cooling medium.
Active Solid-State Devices (e.g.,Transistors,
Solid-State Diodes), appropriate subclasses for active solid-state semiconductor
devices, per se, especially
subclasses 468 , 625, 675, 706, 707, and 712-722 for such devices with
cooling means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures other than conduits, for housing electrical devices
or apparatus.
(1)
Note. For manholes, boxes and housings not limited to use
with fluids, see this class, subclass 37 and indented subclasses,
and 50 and indented subclasses, and the notes thereunder.
(2)
Note. This subclass does not include conduit or cable end
structures or joints, for which see this class, subclasses 19, 20,
21, and 22.
(3)
Note. See section 7 of the class definition for housings
and envelopes for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices
included in this subclass.
(4)
Note. Search Class 220, Receptacles subclasses 2.1+ for
envelopes and housings for electric lamps and electric space discharge
devices where no electrical structure is claimed. Search Class
313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate subclasses
for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices which are
provided with an envelope, jacket or housing. See especially subclass
324 and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto. Also, see
section 7 of the class definition of Class 174.
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Boxes, housings and envelopes which are hermetically sealed.
(1)
Note. Merely reciting that the envelope is provided with
structure (such as the hermetic seals) to provide a hermetically sealed
envelope for use with a vacuum or gas filling will not cause classification in
this or the indented subclasses. See subclasses 50.5+ for
such hermetically sealed envelopes.
(2)
Note. Many of the envelopes and housings in this and the
indented subclasses are of the type used for electric lamps, electric
space discharge devices, and similar electrical devices. See section
7 of the class definition.
(3)
Note. This and the indented subclasses provide for envelopes
and housings which have an evacuating stem or opening.
(4)
Note. Most of the boxes, housings and envelopes in this and
the indented subclasses are provided with lead-in conductors for
conducting electrical energy to the device within the box, housing
or envelope.
for this subject matter where the structure includes
a current conductive fluid (e.g., a liquid used as part of the lead-in
structure) or where a vacuum is used (e.g., as a space around the lead-in
designed to be continuously evacuated to reduce leakage of air or gas).
for this subject matter where the structure includes
means for circulating, feeding or distributing a fluid or is provided
with fluid type cooling means for the box or housing or the device
therein.
and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto
for the miscellaneous hermetically sealed boxes and housings in
this class including those with lead- in conductors.
Receptacles,
subclasses 2.1+ for envelopes and housings for electric lamps and
electric space discharge devices where no electrical structure is
claimed, see indented subclass 2.2 for such envelopes and housings
as are provided with an evacuating stem or opening.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate subclasses for electric lamps and electric
space discharge devices which are provided with an envelope or a
housing. See especially
subclasses 317+ of Class 313 and the subclasses specified in the Notes
thereto. Also see section 7 of the class definition of Class 174.
for bushings, terminals and lead-ins with liquid
sealed joints even though the wall or plate of the supporting box or
housing for the bushing, terminal or lead-in is claimed where no
characteristics of the box or housing are claimed.
Receptacles,
subclass 228 for receptacles having liquid sealed closures and see
the classes referred to in the Notes to that subclass for other
classes which provide for structures with liquid sealed joints.
This subclass is indented under subclass 17.05. Subject matter wherein the box, housing or envelope is provided
with an evacuating stem formed of conductive material which is also used
as a lead-in conductor for conducting electrical energy to the device
within the box, housing or envelope.
(1)
Note. This subclass does not include boxes, housings or envelopes
where a solid lead-in conductor merely passes through a nonconductor
(e.g., glass) evacuating stem.
This subclass is indented under subclass 17.05. Subject matter in which the box, housing or envelope has
an electrical connector combined therewith for connecting a lead-in
conductor of the box, housing or envelope to an external conductor,
or where the envelope, box or housing has a portion thereof formed
as to be at least a part of an electrical connector.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes hermetically sealed envelopes
such as used for electric lamp, electric space discharge devices
and similar devices which are provided with a screw type or plug
type base as well as boxes, housings and envelopes where the lead-in
conductors are either shaped so as to form electrical connectors
or are of sufficient rigidity to form contacts (usually plug type
contacts) subject to the limitations of (2) Note. It also includes
devices where a portion of the enclosing wall of the envelope is
shaped so as to form an electrical connector.
(2)
Note. This subclass provides for the structure of the box,
housing or envelope with connector structure where significant structure
of the housing, box or receptacle is recited in addition to that necessary
to support or mount the electrical connector. See section 17.5
of the class definition of this class (174). See Class 439, Electrical,
Connectors, appropriate subclasses for electrical connector structure.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 318.01+ and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto
for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices which have
a hermetically sealed envelope with an electrical connector (e.g.,
base) thereon or formed as a part thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 17. Boxes and housings having bushing or terminal means specially
modified for cooperation with the structure of the housing or with
some device or fluid contained therein.
(1)
Note. Inventions under subclass 8 relating merely to the
mounting of a bushing or terminal in a wall or plate are in this class,
subclass 31, even though the wall or plate is disclosed or claimed
as a box or housing where no characteristics thereof, such as its
structure or contents, are claimed.
(1.5)
Note. Search this class, subclasses 17.05+ for hermetically
sealed envelopes and housings under subclass 8 such as are used
for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices and which
are provided with lead-in conductors for transmitting electrical
energy through the wall of the envelope or housing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures at the end of a conduit, cable or conductor for
terminating the same, and commonly known as potheads or terminals.
These devices have means for engagement with the sheath or conduit
at or near the end thereof and provide means either to lead the
conducting element or elements to the exterior of the device or
provide electrical connection between the interior conductors and
the exterior of the device.
(1)
Note. For such structures not involving fluids, see this
class, subclasses 60, 73.1, and 74 and indented subclasses, and
the notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 19. End structure having means for isolating the fluid in the
conduit or cable from a fluid in the terminal housing or casing.
(1)
Note. For other fluid stops and seals, see this class, subclasses
22 and 23.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures for joining electrically and/or mechanically
two or more conduits, cables or conductors.
(1)
Note. For nonfluid cable or conduit joints see this class,
subclasses 73.1 and 84 and indented subclasses, and the notes thereunder.
(2)
Note. See Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical
Manufacture, subclass 49 for methods of splicing indefinite length
electric conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures having means for preventing passage of fluid
from one section to another or for sealing the ends or outlets to
prevent fluid leakage.
Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture,
subclass 48 for a method of making a conductor of indefinite
length including filling a void or cavity with fluent material.
Seal for a Joint or Juncture, for a generic sealing means or process,
subclasses 602+ for a static contact seal intended for use on a
pipe, conduit or cable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures pertaining to the makeup of electric cables or
conductors, insulated or uninsulated, and of the conduits therefor,
including the arrangement of the wires or cables therein.
(1)
Note. Where the sole fluid is air under atmospheric conditions,
this subclass takes those patents dealing with arrangements to provide
air spaces for a particular purpose. Plural conductors or cables spaced
within a conduit or sheath with or without means for maintaining
them in spaced relation are in this class, subclass 68.1 and indented
subclasses.
(2)
Note. This subclass and the indented subclasses take such
structure having means for handling or introducing fluid materials
or permitting their flow in fluid condition, and also such structure
where the material claimed is fluid under conditions of use. All
other patents on such structure which claim a material which is solid
in condition of use (even though applied during manufacture in fluid
condition) or which claim material in broad terms not limited to
being fluid in condition of use, are in this class, subclass 68.1
and indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Structures of the type in which the conductor insulating
material is impregnated with a fluid.
(1)
Note. For conduit, cable or conductor structures where an
impregnant is claimed generally or is limited to the type that solidifies
under conditions of use, see this class, subclasses 96, 98, 102,
and indented subclasses, 110 and indented subclasses, particularly
subclass 121.
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Structures having a plurality of conductors at least two
of which are arranged in substantially parallel or twisted relation.
(1)
Note. "Parallel" is used in this definition to
exclude the concentric or coaxial type in this class, subclasses
28 and 29, but a combination of these is in this subclass (27).
(2)
Note. See this class, subclass 26, and the notes thereunder.
This subclass is indented under subclass 24. Structures having at least one conductor surrounded by and
spaced from the inner walls of a tube or conduit which tube or conduit
may be of either conducting or nonconducting material.
(1)
Note. For similar structures having plural parallel or twisted
conductors (not arranged in surrounding relation), see this class,
subclass 27.
(2)
Note. For similar structures having solid insulation filling
the space, see this class, subclasses 96, 98, 102, and indented
subclasses and 111.
(3)
Note. For conduits having interior conductor supporting means,
see this class, subclasses 99 and 100.
This subclass is indented under subclass 28. Cables in which a central inner element is spaced from an
outer concentric element by spirally-applied spacing means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 8. Structures for electrically insulating at least two objects
from each other or an object from ground.
(1)
Note. For similar devices not involving the use of fluids,
see this class, subclass 137 and indented subclasses. Patents claiming
fluid tight joints between various parts of the insulator assembly, where
the structure otherwise could be used with solid materials only,
are placed in such subclasses.
(2)
Note. See Note (8) to the definition of subclass 8 of this
class.
This subclass is indented under subclass 30. Structures (1) having a passage arranged substantially axially
thereof for receiving a conductor or other element to be insulated,
and/or (2) for insulating a conductor or other object from
a wall or plate through which the conductor or other object passes.
Such devices are commonly known as bushings, terminals, and lead-ins.
(1)
Note. The search should be continued in this class, subclass
18.
(2)
Note. For similar devices not limited to use with fluids,
see this class, subclasses 142, 143, 151, and indented subclasses, 154,
155, 156, 157, and 167. Merely claiming a fluid tight structure
(such as having a fluid tight joint) will not cause classification
in this subclass (31) where there is no other structure claimed
which is especially provided for use with a fluid. A structure
which provides a chamber to contain a fluid will be classified in
this subclass (31).
(3)
Note. See conduit and cable end structures, this class, subclasses
19, 20 and 74 and indented subclasses, particularly subclass 75,
for related structures where one end of the insulator structure engages
the sheath or conduit (conductive or insulative) surrounding the
conductors at or near the end thereof.
(4)
Note. Search Class 313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclass 120 for spark plugs having fluid feed or air vent means.
This class (174) provides for spark plugs with such vents when
the sparking electrodes are not claimed (i.e., when only the bushing
and vent structure is claimed).
for hermetically sealed envelopes, boxes, and housings,
within the definition of subclass 9 including those with bushings,
terminals and lead-ins, in which a liquid is used to seal a joint.
Receptacles,
subclass 45 for receptacles having liquid sealed closures and see
the classes referred to in the Notes to that subclass for other
classes which provide for structures with liquid sealed joints.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures having means for preventing or reducing the detrimental
effects due to either self-inductance of a single conductor or mutual inductance
between plural conductors.
(1)
Note. Where the only anti-inductive means is constituted
by one or more surrounding conduits or sheaths or conduit partition
walls of conductive material, classification is in this class, subclass 68.1
and indented subclasses, particularly subclass 102 and indented
subclasses, in which subclasses the surrounding sheath may be a
conductive coating. If shields or electrical means in addition
to the conduit or cable structure are provided, they are in this
subclass (32) or appropriate indented subclasses.
(2)
Note. Where only the physical structure of a single bare
conductor, whether of single or plural strands, is claimed, it is in
this class, subclass 126.1 and indented subclasses, even though
anti-inductive characteristics are alleged in the claim.
(3)
Note. For conductor, cable and conduit structures having
air-spaces or utilizing fluids, even though the structure is for anti-inductive
purposes, see this class, subclass 24 and indented subclasses, especially
subclasses 27, 28 and 29.
(4)
Note. Search appropriate classes for particular apparatus
having anti-inductive means as a part thereof.
(5)
Note. For electrical systems having anti-inductive means,
see the appropriate class, particularly Class 178, Telegraphy, subclasses
45, 49 and 69; Class 307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection
Systems, subclasses 89+; Class 333, Wave Transmission Lines
and Networks, particularly subclass 12, for transmission line inductive
interference reduction systems; and Class 340, Communications: Electrical,
particularly subclasses 288+ and 310.07. Electrical conductors
combined with condensers, reactors or resistors have been classified as
electrical systems. Class 379, Telephonic Communications, subclass
415.
This subclass is indented under subclass 32. Structures claiming means by which conductors are transposed
in relative position.
(1)
Note. For inductors with coils or windings having parallel
connected conductors which are transposed, see Class 336, Inductor
Devices, subclass 187.
This subclass is indented under subclass 33. Structures in which the conductors are associated together
(1) in cable form or (2) in the same single or multi-duct conduit.
(1)
Note. Conduit and cable structures combined with transposition
boxes are in this class, subclass 33.
(2)
Note. For multi-duct pipe or tubular conduit structures,
per se, having the passages transposed, even though claimed as electrical
conduits and even though claimed as made of dielectric, conductive
or composite materials, search Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits,
subclasses 111+, and Class 285, Pipe Joints or Couplings,
particularly subclasses 120.1+, especially subclass 132
for plural passage fittings with branches.
(3)
Note. For conduit, cable, or conductor structures having
twisted conductors without reference to any anti-inductive feature,
see this class, subclass 68.1 and indented subclasses, particularly
subclasses 102 and 110 and their indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures specialized for positioning underground.
(1)
Note. Manholes, i.e., underground work chambers, are in this
subclass. Single manholes with radiating conduits or cables are
in this subclass, but plural interconnected manholes are in subclass 38,
and manholes combined with road or pavement structure are in subclass
39.
(2)
Note. Such structures employing fluids or a vacuum are in
this class, subclass 8 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. See this class, subclasses 480-507 for wall-mounted
conduits or housings.
(4)
Note. Mere box or housing structures are in this class, subclass
50 and indented subclasses.
(5)
Note. Mere conduit or cable structures are in this class,
subclass 68.1 and indented subclasses, end structure being in subclass
74 and indented subclasses, even though disclosed for use in manholes.
(6)
The classes noted in Search Class, below, have the structures
there provided for when not restricted solely to electrical apparatus,
even though electrical apparatus may be included as part of the combination.
(7)
Note. Search Class 429, Chemistry: Electrical Current Producing
Apparatus, Product, and Process, subclass 47 for a battery wherein
a portion of the earth constitutes a part of the battery.
(8)
Note. See Class 52 subclasses 169.1+ for particular
constructions with a specified terranean relationship.
(9)
Note. For underground transmission to vehicles, see Class
104, Railways, particularly subclass 140 and indented subclasses,
and Class 191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, particularly subclass
23 and indented subclasses.
Fluid Handling,
subclass 236 , for fluid handling systems including geographic
feature, and subclasses 363+ for fluid handling devices
including ground supports. (See (6) Note, above.)
Pipes and Tubular Conduits,
subclass 105 , for pipes in a trench; subclass 108 for underground
conduits for supporting cables therein; and subclass 113 for underground
conduits for supporting pipes therein. (See (6) Note, above.)
Wave Transmission Lines and Networks,
subclasses 236+ for long transmission lines having distributed electrical
parameters, and subclasses 1+ for plural channel systems
of such lines.
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclasses 3 , 4+, and 17+ for conduits combined
with pavement, curb or gutter structure and not limited solely to
electrical use. (See (6) Note, above.)
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Structure arranged to deliver energy to plural points; also
combined overhead and underground installations.
(1)
Note. Single manholes with plural conduits or cables radiating
therefrom are in this class, subclass 37.
(2)
Note. See this class, subclass 43, for overhead distributing
structures.
(3)
Note. Where an electrical system, i.e., more than the mere
physical structure or arrangement to lead conductors to plural points,
is claimed, see the appropriate electrical class, particularly Class
307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection Systems, subclasses
11+ for plural load circuit systems, and 43+ for
systems having plural supply circuits or sources.
This subclass is indented under subclass 37. Structure combined with the structure of a road or pavement,
including sidewalks, gutters and curbs.
(1)
Note. For this combination complete the search in Class 404,
Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus, subclasses 3, 4+ and 17+,
for conduits combined with pavement, curb or gutter structure and
not limited solely to electrical use.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures specialized for positioning overhead.
(1)
Note. This subclass and indented subclasses for the most
part are for means for supporting overhead conductors, cables and
conduits.
(2)
Note. Insulator structures with means for securing the same
to some support and/or to secure the conductor, etc., thereto
are in this class, subclass 137 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. For overhead electrical means for transmission to vehicles,
see Class 191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles.
(4)
Note. For overhead supports for cables and conduits not limited
by insulation or other claimed characteristics to electrical apparatus,
see Class 248, Supports, subclass 49 and indented subclasses.
Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or
Pulling Force,
subclasses 134.3+ for process or apparatus for placing or stringing
overhead wire, strand or cable.
Wave Transmission Lines and Networks,
subclasses 236+ for long transmission lines having distributed electrical
parameters, and subclasses 1+ for plural channel systems
of such lines.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Structures in which the electrical equipment is suspended
from an overhead or messenger cable.
(1)
Note. Complete the search in Class 248, Supports, subclass
61, for pipe or cable supports not restricted by insulation or other
characteristics to electrical conductors.
(2)
Note. Insulator structures having means specially designed
to engage a wire for supporting the insulator are in this class, subclass
137 and indented subclasses; see particularly subclass 146, for
wire mid-line spacers, and subclass 160, for other wire engaging
insulator suspending means.
(3)
Note. See Class 24, Buckles, Buttons, Clasps, etc., subclasses
115+, for cord and rope holders, per se.
(4)
Note. See Class 191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles,
particularly subclasses 40+.
Implements or Apparatus for Applying Pushing or
Pulling Force,
subclasses 388+ for means supported by, and maintaining relative
spacing between, longitudinal runs or an endless, load carrying
or moving cable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Structures having means to damp out mechanical vibrations
in the supported conductor, cable or conduit.
(1)
Note. Dampers, per se, not claimed in combination with supporting
structure are here.
(2)
Note. Compare this class, subclasses 146 and 147, for insulators
for spacing wires between supports and having a mechanical vibration
damping function.
(3)
Note. See Class 248, Supports, subclasses 63 and 560+ for
resilient supports having such means and not restricted by insulation
or other characteristics to electrical conductors, cables or conduits.
(4)
Note. See Class 267, Spring Devices, subclass 178, for a
spring device of the coil spring type useful in vibration dampening
support structure for overhead conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Structures arranged (1) to deliver electrical energy to
a plurality of points or (2) to be supported at a plurality of spaced
points.
(1)
Note. For other distributing arrangements, see this class,
subclasses 38,71, and 72.
(2)
Note. See this class, subclass 41, for the messenger cable
type of plural point support.
(3)
Note. See this class, subclass 148 and indented subclasses,
for plural insulator assemblies to support plural conductors at
one place or to support single conductors at one place.
(4)
Note. For electrical systems of transmission and distribution,
i.e., more than the mere physical structure to support at, or lead
conductors to, a plurality of points, see the appropriate class,
particularly Class 307, Electrical Transmission or Interconnection
Systems, subclasses 11+ for plural load circuit systems,
and subclasses 43+ for systems having plural supply circuits
or sources.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Structures having (1) conductor connectors or terminal panels,
or (2) means to lead or "fan" the conductors of
a plural conductor cable to separated points on the overhead support.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclasses 59, 60, 175, and 176 and
indented subclasses, for cable and conduit junction boxes and terminal
structures which include means for separating the conductors of
a plural conductor cable or conduit in a box or at the end of the
cable or conduit.
This subclass is indented under subclass 40. Structures claiming single towers, poles or posts. The
combination of tower, pole or post with its cross-arms is here.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclass 43, for patents claiming two
or more towers, poles or posts in combination. A single tower may
be comprised of a plurality of poles or posts.
(2)
Note. For insulators and their securing means, per se, see
this class, subclass 137 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. See Class 52, Static Structures (e.g., Buildings),
subclasses 40, 146+, 153+, 155+, 292+,
651.01+, and 720.1+ for a mast, pole or post not
restricted to electrical use.
(4)
Note. See Class 191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles,
particularly subclasses 32, and 33 and indented subclasses, for
similar structures specially designed for transmission to moving
vehicles or objects, i.e., to support a conductor for contact by
a relatively movable collector.
(5)
Note. See Class 362, Illumination, subclass 431, for lamp-post.
(6)
Note. See Class 343, Communications: Radio Wave Antennas,
subclasses 874+ for mast or tower type antennas; subclass 886
for antennas horizontally suspended between poles or standards;
and subclasses 890+ for antennas on a post, standard or
tower.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures in the form of handles.
(1)
Note. Complete the search in Class 200, Electricity: Circuit
Makers and Breakers, subclasses 61.85+ for switches actuated
concurrently with the use of a manipulating, operating or carrying
handle; and subclass 332.2, for handles having mechanical switches.
(2)
Note. For conductor take-up reels in handles limited to use
with electrical conductors, see Class 191, Electricity: Transmission
to Vehicles, subclass 12 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. See Class 242, Winding, Tensioning, or Guiding, for
combined handle and reel structures, particularly subclass 588.2
for carriers on handles.
(4)
Note. See Class 248, Supports, subclasses 51 and 52, for
tool cord supports.
(5)
Note. For mere insulated handles, see Class 16, Miscellaneous
Hardware (e.g., Bushing, Carpet Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel
Hanger, Attachable or Adjunct Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance,
etc.), subclasses 431+ and indented subclasses.
(6)
Note. For electric space discharge devices (e.g., spark ignitors)
which are provided with handles, see Class 313, subclass 48, for
such space discharge devices, per se, with handles and Class 315,
subclass 33 for such handles in combination with the source of supply, the
space discharge device and the circuit elements so as to make a
portable-self-contained device.
(7)
Note. For inductors with handles, see Class 336, Inductor
Devices, subclass 66.
Structures for conveying fluids and also for conducting
electrical energy.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclass 8 and indented subclasses,
for structures in which fluids are employed for or applied to the
electrical apparatus.
(2)
Note. See Class 405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering, subclasses
132+ and Class 404, Road Structure, Process, or Apparatus,
subclasses 3, 4+ and 17+, for conduits combined
with pavement, curb or gutter structure and not limited solely to
electrical use.
(3)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses
129+, 137+ and 140+ for composite pipes
having metal, frequently in the form of wire strands. Where the
structure incorporates the wire in insulated relation for electrical conductive
purposes, it is in this class (174).
(4)
Note. See Class 340, Communications: Electrical, subclass
320 for electric systems for signaling along a fire hose or other
fluid conduit.
(5)
Note. Search Class 313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 11+, for electric lamps and space discharge devices
which are provided with means for conducting a temperature modifying fluid
to the lamp or discharge device, the fluid conducting means being
designed for use also as an electrical conductor, and Class 315,
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems, subclass 50, for electric
lamps and discharge devices which have means for conducting a temperature
modifying medium to the lamp or discharge device, the fluid conducting means
being designed for use as an electrical impedance.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Boxes and housings limited by claimed structure to electrical
use, but having no claimed characteristics limiting the same to particular
characters of electrical equipment classifiable in other main classes.
(1)
Note. The mere naming of the electrical device housed will
not exclude the same from this class, but where characteristics of
the device housed are claimed, classification is with such device.
(1.5)
Note. This and the indented subclasses include envelopes,
casings, and housings such as are used for electric lamps, electric
space discharge devices and similar electrical devices which are
enclosed in vitreous, ceramic, nonmetallic plastic or metallic envelopes
or casings. See section 7 of the class definition. See especially
indented subclasses 50.5+ where the envelope, box or housing
is hermetically sealed. In many of these devices the casing, housing
or envelope is provided with lead-in wires or conductors for conducting
electric current through the wall of the envelope, casing or housing.
(2)
Note. See this class, subclass 8 and indented subclasses,
for boxes and housings limited to use with fluids or vacuum, particularly
subclasses 17 and 18.
(3)
Note. See this class, subclass 37 and indented subclasses,
for underground housings, and subclass 40 and indented subclasses,
for overhead housings.
(4)
Note. See this class, subclass 46, for housings in the form
of handles.
(5)
Note. See this class, subclasses 480-507 for wall-mounted
housings.
(6)
Note. See this class, subclasses 74 and 84 and their indented
subclasses, for conduit, cable and conductor end structures and
joints.
Receptacles,
subclasses 2.1+ for envelopes or housings for electric lamps or
similar devices where no electrical structure is claimed, subclasses
3.2+ for receptacles having provision for extending strands,
rods, pipes, etc., through the receptacle wall or for coupling them
to the receptacle wall.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices, appropriate subclasses, for electric lamps and discharge
devices which are provided with an envelope, box or casing where
significant structure is claimed which limits the subject matter
to use as an electrical lamp or electric space discharge device.
See Section 7 of the class definition for the envelopes for lamps
and discharge devices included in this class.
Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches,
subclasses 20, 34, 112, 121, 186+, 327+, 380+, 398,
and 414+ for specific types of electrothermal and thermal
operated switches with housing.
Electrical Resistors,
subclasses 226+ for an incased, embedded, or housed fixed electrical
resistor. For the lines between Class 174 and Class 338, see the
class definition of Class 338.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclasses 331+ for boxes, mounting and housing means with plural
diverse electrical components. Even though a box or housing is claimed
by name only in conjunction with said plural diverse electrical components,
the patent is excluded from Class 174 and located only in Class
361.
Chemistry: Electrical Current Producing Apparatus,
Product, and Process,
subclasses 158 , 161, and 163 for battery receptacles having conductor structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50. Envelopes which are hermetically sealed.
(1)
Note. The term envelope is defined to include boxes, housings
or other hermetically sealed receptacles in this and the indented
subclasses.
(2)
Note. Many of the envelopes in this and the indented subclasses
are of the type used for electric lamps, electric space discharge
devices and similar electrical devices. See Lines With Other Classes, 1.
(3)
Note. Most of the envelopes in this and the indented subclasses
are provided with lead-in conductors for conducting electrical energy
to the device within the envelope.
and 17.05+, and the subclasses specified
in the Notes thereto for this subject matter where a fluid is used
or where the structure is provided with means peculiarly adapted
for use with a fluid (e.g., an evacuating stem or opening or a fluid
seal), and see subclass 9 where the structure includes a current
conductive fluid or where a vacuum is used.
through 397 , for this subject matter where the structure includes
an electrostatic or electromagnetic shielding means and for envelopes
with a shield which wholly or partially surrounds the envelope.
Electricity: Circuit Makers and Breakers, appropriate subclasses for vacuum switches and
subclasses 32 , 81.6 and 152 for liquid contact (mercury switches).
Receptacles,
subclasses 2.1+ for envelopes (including those which are hermetically
sealed) for electric lamps, electric space discharge devices, and
similar devices.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 317+ and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto for
electric lamp and electric space discharge devices which are provided with
a hermetically sealed envelope. See Lines With Other Classes, 1.,
of the class definition of this class (174) with respect to the
distinction between Classes 174 and 313.
Electricity: Electrothermally or Thermally Actuated
Switches,
subclasses 28+ for electrothermal switches with hermetically sealed
housing, casing or envelope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter having a casing or jacket surrounding the
envelope or a portion thereof, or having the envelope wholly or
partially covered with a coating or similar covering material.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes envelopes within the definition
of subclass 50.5 which have an integral double wall.
Receptacles,
subclasses 2.1+ for the structure of double walled and coated envelopes
for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices where no electrical
structure is claimed.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclass 312 and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto for
electric lamps and discharge devices which are provided with a hermetically
sealed envelope and a separable casing or jacket surrounding the
envelope, and subclasses 317+ and the subclasses specified
in the Notes thereto for electric lamp and discharge devices having
integral double wall hermetically sealed envelopes or a covered
or coated hermetically sealed envelope.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles, appropriate subclasses, for a single or plural layer stock
material and for miscellaneous articles, see especially
subclass 34 for a plurality of light transmissive sheets or
webs spaced from each other and hermetically sealed at their edges
and enclosing a gas space therebetween and subclasses 34.1+ for
a container type miscellaneous article.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter in which the envelope has combined therewith
an electrical connector for connecting a lead-in conductor of the
envelope to an external conductor, or where the envelope has a portion
thereof formed so as to be at least a part of an electrical connector.
(1)
Note. This and the indented subclass includes hermetically
sealed envelopes such as are used for electric lamps, electric space
discharge devices, and similar devices which are provided with a
screw type or plug type base as well as envelopes where the lead-in
conductors are either shaped so as to form electrical connectors
or are of sufficient rigidity to form contacts (usually plug type
contacts) subject to the limitations of (2) Note. The indented
subclass includes devices where a portion of the enclosing wall
of the envelope is shaped so as to form an electrical connector.
(2)
Note. This subclass provides for the structure of the envelope
with connector structure where significant structure of envelope
is recited in addition to that necessary to support or mount the
electrical connector. See section 17.5 of the class definition
of this class (174). See Class 439, Electrical Connectors, for electrical
connector structure, and see especially subclasses 611+ for
the combination of a vitreous envelope and an electrical connector
in which no significant structure of the envelope is recited other
than that necessary to support or mount the electrical connector.
for this subject matter where a fluid is used or
where structure is provided peculiarly adapted for use with a fluid (e.g.,
an evacuating stem or opening).
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 318.01+ and the subclasses specified in the Notes thereto
for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices which have
a hermetically sealed envelope with an electrical connector (e.g.,
a base) thereon or formed as a part thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.52. Subject matter where the envelope has a portion thereof
formed so as to be at least a part of an electrical connector.
(1)
Note. The portion of the envelope which forms the part of
the electrical connector may be a metallic wall portion which is used
to complete the wall portion of a glass or ceramic envelope.
(2)
Note. Devices where the lead-in wires only are formed or
are of sufficient rigidity to form contacts are in subclass 50.52 and
not in this subclass. This subclass includes devices having a wall
portion sealed with a metallic closure which is designed for use
as an electrical connector.
(3)
Note. Included in this subclass are envelopes of metals,
glass or other ceramic which have a portion formed with screw threads
so as to form a part of a screw threaded base type connector. The threads
may or may not be covered with conductive material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter having means to mount an electrical device
within the envelope.
(1)
Note. This subclass provides only for hermetically sealed
envelopes where the mounting means within the envelope is of general
utility, that is, where the mounting structure claimed could be used
for mounting any one of a number of different devices such as electrical condensers,
inductances, resistors, switches, etc. The mere recitation of an electrode
or electrode assembly broadly recited as the thing mounted will
not exclude the device from this subclass, but if the electrode
is claimed as a filament, anode, grid, cathode, or other specific
electrode in the case of a lamp or electric space discharge device
the device will be excluded and will be found in Class 313, Electric
Lamp and Discharge Devices, subclasses 238+.
Where the supporting structure is not of general utility,
but is of the type useful only in mounting the electrodes of a lamp
or electric space discharge device, the patent is excluded from
this class (174) and will be found in Class 313 even though the
electrodes are not claimed specifically.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter having a hollow tubular lead-in conductor
passing through the wall of the envelope and having another lead-in
conductor arranged within the hollow lead-in conductor.
(1)
Note. The lead-in conductors are ordinarily concentrically
arranged. This subclass includes therefor envelopes with co-axial
lead-ins where no electrical characteristics of the lead-ins such
as the inductance, capacity, or resonant features are involved and
also includes envelopes where the portion of the lead-ins which
passes through the wall are stepped or displaced along the length
of each other as in some types of "light house" tubes.
for this subject matter where the hollow tubular
lead-in is a part of the envelope wall and is designed also for use
as an electrical connector and the other lead is arranged within
the hollow lead-in (as in some types of "light house" tubes).
for devices (e.g., bushings) for insulating a plurality
of concentric arranged conductors from a wall or plate through which
the conductors extend (the bushing may be fluid tight).
Telegraphy,
subclass 44 , for concentrically arranged transmission lines including
those with hermetically sealed joints between the conductors and
those designed to pass through a wall or plate where electrical
characteristics of the conductors, such as the inductance, capacity
or resonant features are involved.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices: Systems,
subclass 39 for electric lamps and electric space discharge
devices which have structurally combined therewith a wave guide or
co-axial high frequency transmission line (the wave guide or coaxial line
may extend through the walls of the envelope of the device).
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter wherein the envelope has at least a portion
of its wall formed of metal or other conductive material with a
lead-in conductor which passes through the metal or conductive wall
position and is insulated therefrom.
(1)
Note. This subclass includes patents where the envelope is
formed substantially entirely of metal and has lead-in conductors
passing through the wall.
(2)
Note. Where only the structure of the lead-in conductors,
the wall of the envelope, and the means for insulating it from the
wall is claimed, the device is classified in subclasses 151+ of
this class as a bushing. Such structure is classified in subclasses
151+ even if the envelope is claimed where no characteristics
of the envelope are claimed in addition to the bushing structure.
Envelopes having a plurality of separate lead-in conductors passing
through the metal wall are classified in this subclass (50.56).
where the envelope has two concentrically arranged
conductors passing through the wall of the envelope, one of which
may form a part of the envelope wall.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter having one or more lead-in conductors sealed
into a disk, stem structure or other supporting structure, the disk,
stem or supporting structure forming a closure for the envelope.
(1)
Note. The structures in this and the indented subclass are
characterized primarily in that there is a joint between the closure
which supports one or more lead-in conductors and the envelope as distinguished
from the type of device which has the envelope sealed directly about
the lead-in conductors. The disk, stem or supporting structure for
the lead-in conductor may be of the same or different material as
that of the envelope.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.57. Subject matter where the disk, stem structure or supporting
structure for the lead-in is joined to the envelope by a fused seal.
(1)
Note. The seal may be a glass to glass joint, a metal to
metal joint or a glass to metal joint. Where cement is used to join
the disk or stem structure to the envelope, see subclass 50.57.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter provided with means for shielding the joint
between the lead-in conductor and the portion of the envelope through
which the lead-in passes, or for preventing electrical leakage currents
between the lead-in conductors along the envelope wall.
(1)
Note. The shield may be for the purpose of preventing a deposit
of sputtered or vaporized material upon or around the lead-in and
the envelope portion adjacent thereto, or to prevent the sealing material
at the joint from being attached by deleterious substances, or for
any other shielding purpose.
and 55.52+, where the device is provided
with an electrical connector (e.g., a base) and the electrical connector
is formed so as to constitute a shield between the lead-in conductors or
for the joint.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclass 626 for gas or vapor type electric lamps and electric space
discharge devices with shielding means for the lead-in conductors, subclass
313 for the miscellaneous electric lamps and discharge device with
electrical shielding means for the device or a part thereof, and
subclasses 317+ for electric lamps and discharge devices
with lead-in conductors including such devices as have shielding
means for the lead-in joint or between the lead-in conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subject matter having structure especially provided for
a plurality of lead-in conductors.
(1)
Note. Included in this subclass are only devices where there
is significance to the use of a plurality of lead-ins. If the lead-ins
merely duplicate each other, then no cross-reference of the patent
is placed in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.5. Subjects matter wherein a lead conductor which passes through
the wall of the envelope is sealed to the envelope by means of a
bonded seal.
(1)
Note. A bonded joint is a joint in which the joining is performed
by casting, welding, soldering, brazing or other method requiring
the use of molten or semi-molten material, cement, or other adhesive,
or where at least one of the parts to be joined is made of plastic
and the joint is made by pressing the parts together so that they
adhere to each other. The usual glass-to-metal seal is an example
of a bonded joint.
(2)
Note. This and the indented subclasses are residual places
for patents for envelopes with bonded lead-ins which involve more
than mere joint structure such as would be classified in one of
the classes providing for joints and which do not involve sufficient
other structure to be classified in the above subclasses of this
class or in another class.
for devices (e.g., bushings for insulating a conductor
from a wall or plate through which the conductor extends). Some
of these bushings include a bonded joint between the lead-in conductor
and the insulator or between the insulator and the wall or plate.
Where only the structure of the lead-in conductor, the wall of
the envelope and the means for insulating it from the wall is claimed,
the device is classified in subclasses 151+ as a bushing,
even though the envelope is claimed where no characteristics of the
envelope are claimed in addition to the bushing structure.
Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 317+ for electric lamps and electric space discharge devices
having lead-in wires passing through the envelope walls and sealed to
the wall by a bonded seal.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 630 for stock comprising plural adjacent metallic components
and an additional silica or other oxide component.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.61. Subject matter where the lead-in conductor is sealed to
the envelope by means of a plastic material or by the use of a cement.
This subclass is indented under subclass 50.61. Subject matter where the lead-in conductor is in the form
of a disc or ring, or has a flange forming a disc or ring thereon
or is a metal tube, with the envelope sealed to either the side or
edge of the disc or ring, or to the metal tube.
where there are two lead-in conductors, one of which
is a tube surrounding the other, and the envelope is sealed to the
outer conductor and another hermetic seal is formed between the
inner conductor and the outer conductor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Structures in which the means are specially designed for
mounting plug receptacles or wall switches.
(1)
Note. When the characteristics of the switch are claimed,
classification is in Class 200, Electricity: Circuit Makers and
Breakers.
(2)
Note. Search Class 439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses
527+ for an electrical connector combined with supporting means
therefor; especially subclass 535 for an electrical receptacle with
an "outlet box". For the line with respect to housings,
boxes or receptacles between this class (174) and Class 439, see
(15) Note and see (17) Note of the class definition of this class.
This subclass is indented under subclass 55. Structures in which the mounting means is on the portion
of the face plate on the outside of the box or housing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 53. Structures having in addition means to mount the box or
housing.
(1)
Note. Complete the search in this class, subclass 63, and
in class 220, Receptacles, subclasses 3.9 and 3.92, and see the notes
thereunder for box and housing mounting means.
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Structures in which the box or housing has a plurality of
connectors for fanning out a plurality of incoming and/or
outgoing conductors.
(1)
Note. See Class 361, Electricity: Electrical Systems and
Devices, subclasses 335+ for arrangements of circuit closers on
a mounting or the combination with the conductors or bus-bars, including encased
switchboards.
(2)
Note. Search Class 439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses
527+ for an electrical connector combined with supporting means
therefor; especially subclass 535 for an electrical receptacle with
an "outlet box".
This subclass is indented under subclass 520. Structures having means for coupling or mounting an electrical
fixture (which is to be external of the box or housing) to the housing.
(1)
Note. Complete the search in this class, subclass 54.
(3)
Note. See Class 248, Supports, subclasses 317+.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures which constitute a closure for a box, housing
or wall opening and which are provided with openings for communicating with
devices concealed by the closure. Such openings may have means
for coupling a device in the opening.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclasses 55, 56 and 57.
(2)
Note. Face plates having means specially designed for guiding
the prongs of electric plug elements have been placed in this subclass
or subclass 67 indented hereunder.
(3)
Note. See Class 220, Receptacles, subclasses 241+ for
face plates having no added structure limiting the same to electrical
use, even though claimed as made of conductive and/or insulating material,
and see the search notes thereunder for related art.
This subclass is indented under the class definition. Structures of conduits, cables or conductors.
(1)
Note. See this class, main class definitions, especially
2, 3, 6, 8, and 9 as well as main class notes (1) through (14) for criteria
which distinguish the structures found in this class from those
of other classes.
Wave Transmission Lines and Networks,
subclasses 236+ for long transmission lines having distributed electrical
parameters, and subclasses 1+ for plural channel systems
of such lines.
Electrical Resistors, appropriate subclasses for electrical resistors,
per se. See the class definition under Class 338 for certain classification
lines relating to this subject matter.
Communications: Radio Wave Antennas,
subclass 700 for antennas which may include a conduit, cable
or conductor. See also (4) Note. B, under subclass 700 and (1)
Note under subclass 900 of this class (343) for classification lines
between conduits, cables or conductors and antennas.
Hydraulic and Earth Engineering,
subclass 154.1 for a method or apparatus for the subterranean
or submarine laying, retrieving, manipulating, or treating of a
conductor; and subclass 184.4 for the advancing or removing of a
conductor through a pipe in a subterranean or submarine location.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Subject matter pertaining to bus bars or bus ducts.
(1)
Note. This is the residual subclass for subject matter directed
to bus bars and bus ducts which is not provided for in any of the
other bus bar subclasses of this class namely, subclasses 16.2,
70, 71, 72, 88, 99, 129, 133, and 149. Since, with the exception
of subclass 16.2, the other bus bar subclasses in Class 174 do not
have individually tailored definitions, determination of the subject
matter falling within this subclass (68.2) can only be made after
comparison with these other bus bar subclasses.
(2)
Note. Examples of the subject matter found in this subclass
are: bus bars supported on an insulator without an enclosing bus
duct, bus ducts, per se, and certain bus bar and bus duct assemblies.
Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, appropriate subclasses for bus bars and bus ducts
adapted for sliding or rolling current collection to supply electricity
to vehicles.
Electricity: Electrical Systems and Devices,
subclasses 341 , 355, 361, and 378 for bus bars and bus ducts in combinations
with subject matter of that class.
Electrical Connectors,
subclass 22 for bus bars and bus ducts including detachable
electrical connector structure or including provisions for receiving
a detachable electrical connector.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures pertaining to conduits of the single duct type.
(1)
Note. For the line between the subject matter in this subclass
and the structures in Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, see
(8) Note to the main definitions of this class (174).
(2)
Note. This subclass does not provide for single duct conduits
having a removable wall. For such subject matter see subclass 101
of this class (174).
(3)
Note. See this class, class definition (9) to (13) Notes
for a list of classes having conduits combined with the subject
matter thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures constructed to be axially extensible. In some
of these devices the structure causes the device normally to assume
a coiled form.
(1)
Note. For extensible or elastic woven fabrics, see Class
139, Textiles: Weaving, subclasses 421+.
(2)
Note. See Class 191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles,
subclasses 12+.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures combined with things other than the conductors
and the means for mounting and/or insulating the same in
the conduit or cable, except those combinations provided for above in
this class.
(1)
Note. Devices having special strands incorporated in armored
or insulated cables or bare conductors for tension purposes are
in this class, subclasses 102, 110 and 126.1 and their indented subclasses.
(2)
Note. The combination of a conduit, cable, or conductor with
means to couple the same to a box is in this class, subclasses 64
and 650-669.
(3)
Note. Compare this class, subclasses 135 and 136, for cable,
conduit, or conductor accessories.
(4)
Note. Cables and conductors, having embodied in the structure
thereof, noncurrent-carrying wires or elements or attaching means
(other than mere armors or sheaths) specially designed to provide supporting
or attaching means for the cables or conductors have been placed
in this subclass.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Structures in which the conduit, cable or conductor has
one or more branches or has means for connecting branches.
(1)
Note. For an electrical connector comprising an uninterrupted
support rail or uninterrupted contact whereby a plurality of mating
connectors may engaging at an infinite number of locations, Search Class
439, Electrical Connectors, subclasses 110+. For an electrical
connector with a conduit or duct, Search Class 439, subclasses 207+.
For analogous structure to be used with vehicle structure, designed
to permit motion of an electrical connector therealong, see Class
191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles, especially subclasses
23+.
(2)
Note. See Class 285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, appropriate
subclasses, for pipe couplings providing branched pipes and conduits
even though disclosed as being for electrical conductors. See Class
254, Pushing and Pulling Implements, subclasses 134.3+ for
wire or strand placing means comprising guide means interior of
a coupling.
(3)
Note. See Class 403, Joints and Connections, subclass 169
for branched connections in general.
(4)
Note. Compare Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclass
92.
This subclass is indented under subclass 71. Structures having (1) more than one branch or (2) having
more than one duct.
(1)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses
111+ for plural duct pipe and tubular conduit structures not
limited to electrical use.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Subject matter having conductive means to modify the electrical
stress characteristics of the joint or end structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Structures claiming structure applied to the terminal end
of a conductor, conduit or cable.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclasses 19 and 20, for end structures
utilizing fluids.
(2)
Note. For housing type terminals having means for connecting
the conduit or cable wires to other wires leading into the housing,
see this class, subclass 60.
(3)
Note. See this class, subclasses 84+ for joints.
(4)
Note. See Class 439, Electrical Connectors, appropriate subclasses
for electrical connector structure, and see especially subclasses
730, 754+, 775+, 865+, 874+, 877+,
and 883 for an electrical connector of the terminal type usually
applied to the end of a single conductor.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Structures in which there is a joint between the conductor
within the end structure and some conductive element extending to
the exterior of the end structure.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Structures having means providing a tight seal between the
end structure and the conductor element passing therethrough to
the exterior thereof.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Structures in the form of an elbow, or having a hood over
the conduit or cable end to cause the issuing conductors to bend.
(1)
Note. See Class 285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclasses
179.1+ for an elbow fitting having access means, and subclasses
179+ for an elbow pipe fitting.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Structures in the form of an end cap.
(1)
Note. Elbow form and hooded end caps are in this class, subclass
81.
(2)
Note. See Class 16, Miscellaneous Hardware (e.g., Bushing,
Carpet Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel Hanger, Attachable or
Adjunct Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance, etc.), subclasses 108
and 109, for ferrules, rings and thimbles for conduits and cables, where
characteristics restricted to electrical use are not claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 74. Structures of sleeve form for insertion into the ends of
conduits and cables.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclasses 142, 143, 146, 152, 153,
154, 157, and 167, for related insulator structures.
(2)
Note. See Class 16, Miscellaneous Hardware (e.g., Bushing,
Carpet Fastener, Caster, Door Closer, Panel Hanger, Attachable or
Adjunct Handle, Hinge, Window Sash Balance, etc.), subclasses 2.1+,
for bushings and lining thimbles for conduits and cables where characteristics
restricted to electrical use are not claimed.
This subclass is indented under subclass 70. Structures claiming the joint between the ends of conduits,
cables or conductors.
(1)
Note. Compare this class, subclass 75, for cable, conduit,
or conductor end structures with joints.
(2)
Note. See this class, subclasses 21 and 22, for joints utilizing
fluids.
(3)
Note. See this class subclasses 71 and 72, for joints for
associating conduits, cables or conductors in branching relation.
(4)
Note. See Class 439, Electrical Connectors, for electrical
connectors, generally, and see especially Lines With Other Classes
and With This Class in that class (Class 439) definition for the
line between this Class 174) and that class with regard to electrical
joints.
(5)
Note. See Class 285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclasses
47+ for joints or couplings heat and/or electrically
insulated, having no added features limiting the same to electrical
use.
(6)
Note. See Class 403, Joints and Connections, appropriate
subclasses, for conductor joints where no features restricting the
same to the electrical arts, such as the use of insulation to insulate the
conductively coupled wires or the structure of the conductor to
improve the same for conducting electricity, are claimed. Features
which are designed to make better metal to metal contact at the joint
and thus improve the strength of the joint and also the electrical
conductive properties have been placed Class 403.
(7)
Note. See Class 156, Adhesive Bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical
Manufacture, subclass 49 for methods of splicing indefinite length
electric conductors.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Structures in which the joint is covered by a sleeve made
in sections axially insulated from each other. This is usually for
the purpose of causing sheaths or conduits of conductive material
to be electrically noncontinuous at the joint.
(1)
Note. See Class 285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclasses
47+ for insulated pipe joints.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Joints made to be capable of moving or adjusting the sections
connected by the joint to an out-of-line relation.
(1)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclass
120 for pipes having movable or adjustable sections.
(2)
Note. See Class 285, Pipe Joints or Couplings, subclasses
121.3+ for concentric joints with relative motion, subclasses 121.6+ for
coupling for plural noncommunicating lines with relatively motion, subclasses
144.1+ for serial relatively movable joints, and subclasses
184+ for a coupling providing an adjustable angle between
the members.
(3)
Note. See Class 403, Joints and Connections, subclasses 52+ for
articulated joints in general.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Structures claiming joints between the separately insulated
conductors of a plural conductor cable or conduit.
(1)
Note. Joints between single conductors of stranded form are
in this class, subclass 90.
This subclass is indented under subclass 84. Joints in which the conduit wall or the cable sheath at
the joint is radially spread or flanged, usually for better engagement
with the joint sleeve or casing.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures having two or more distinct ducts for receiving
electrical conductors.
(1)
Note. Compare this class, subclass 104.
(2)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses
111+ for plural duct pipes and tubular conduits not structurally
limited to electrical use.
This subclass is indented under subclass 95. Structures in which the ducts are formed by grooves or channels
in plates.
(1)
Note. See this class, subclass 101, for other removable wall
conduits.
(2)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses
111+ particularly subclasses 115-117, for plural duct pipes and
tubular conduits in which the ducts are formed by grooves or channels
in plates.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures in which the conduit has supports in its interior
for supporting one or more conductors.
(1)
Note. Complete the search in this class, subclass 98, and
in Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclass 108 for conduits
for supporting one or more conductors therein; and subclass 113
for conduits for supporting one or more pipes therein.
(2)
Note. See this class, subclasses 28 and 29, for coaxial or
concentric conductor type of structure.
(3)
Note. See this class, subclass 131, for plural strand conductors
with interior means to hold the conductors.
(4)
Note. See this class, subclasses 146 and 147, for mid-line
spacer type of insulators.
(5)
Note. For similar structures in which the supporting means
consists of relatively short insulating elements, such as buttons,
discs, plates or beads, strung along or upon the conductors, see
this class, subclass 111.
(6)
Note. See Class 405, Hydraulic and Earth Engineering subclasses
132+ for tunnels and subways with supporting means.
(7)
Note. See Class 104, Railways, subclass 140 and indented
subclasses, for railway slotted conduits, and subclass 173 and indented
subclasses, for railway cable traction conduits.
(8)
Note. See Class 191, Electricity: Transmission to Vehicles,
subclass 23 and indented subclasses, for conduit enclosed and supported
conductors specially arranged to transmit to vehicles.
(9)
Note. See Class 313, Electric Lamp and Discharge Devices,
subclasses 274+, for electric lamps which have an envelope, generally
of elongated tubular shape, and a filament which extends the length
of the envelope, the envelope having supports in its interior for
supporting the filament.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures having at least one wall removable.
(1)
Note. Complete the search in this class, subclass 97, for
conduits formed for grooved or channeled plates either stacked or
having a removable wall.
(2)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses
157+ for pipes having at least one wall removable.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures in which one or more conductors are enclosed
in, but insulated from, an electrically conductive armor or sheath.
(1)
Note. An armor or sheath as used herein includes any surrounding
conduit, tube, wrapping, winding, layer, coating, or other enclosing
structure. Such structures may be inherently conductive, as when
made of metal, or may be rendered conductive by incorporation of
conductive ingredients or particles.
(2)
Note. While the conductivity of the armor or sheath is essential
to cause classification in this subclass and indented subclasses,
it is not necessary that the armor or sheath be intended to carry
an electric current. Thus, this subclass and indented subclasses
include, for example, armors or sheaths (a) provided solely for
mechanical protection when claimed as made of conductive material, and
(b) having an electrical function such as corona prevention, grounding, shielding,
etc., or constituting the outer conductor of a coaxial or concentric
type cable.
(3)
Note. For structures employing anti-inductive means in addition
to the conductor armor or sheath, see this class, subclass 32 and
indented subclasses, especially subclass 36.
(4)
Note. For conductively armored or sheathed conductors or
cables employing a fluid or vacuum, see this class, subclass 8 and
indented subclasses, especially subclass 24 and indented subclasses.
See particularly subclasses 28 and 29 for coaxial or concentric
type cables.
(5)
Note. For conductors or cables armored or sheathed solely
by insulation, see this class, subclass 110 and indented subclasses.
(6)
Note. For mere hollow conductors not forming an enclosure
for another conductor, see this class, subclass 126.1 and indented
subclasses, especially subclasses 130 and 131.
Electrical Resistors,
subclass 214 for cable type resistors, subclasses 226+ for
an incased, embedded or housed fixed electrical resistor, especially subclasses
238+ and 243+ for electrical resistance elements
in insulation with an outer metallic sheath. See the class definition
under Class 338 for certain classification lines relating to this
subject matter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Structures in which two or more conductors or groups of
conductors are separately enclosed in a conductive armor or sheath.
This subclass is indented under subclass 103. Structure in which the conductive armor or sheath comprises
a body having individual passages for the conductors or groups of
conductors. Said body may be preformed or may be molded directly
about the conductors.
(1)
Note. Compare this class, subclass 95 and indented subclasses,
for conductors or cables arranged in plural-duct conduits.
(2)
Note. Compare this class, subclasses 96 and 98, for single
or plural conductors embedded in plastic or other material.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Structures having two or more substantially coaxial, conductive
armors or sheaths insulated from one another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Structures having two or more substantially coaxial, conductive
armors or sheaths in conductive contact with one another. This includes
composite armors or sheaths comprising two or more conductive layers
or coating conductively engaging one another.
Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclass 604 for metallic stock or corrugate configuration,
and subclasses 615+ for composite metallic stock defined
in terms of the composition of its components.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Structures in which the conductive armor or sheath is enclosed
in a wrapping, coating, or other body of nonconductive material,
to insulate the armor or sheath or to protect it against corrosion,
deterioration, or other damage.
This subclass is indented under subclass 102. Structures in which the armor or sheath comprises a conductive
tape, strip, wire, or other element applied spirally.
(1)
Note. See Class 138, Pipes and Tubular Conduits, subclasses
130, 133 and 134+ for flexible pipes formed of spirally wound
metallic elements; and subclasses 144, 150 and 154 for other pipes
formed of spirally wound metallic elements.
This subclass is indented under subclass 108. Structures in which the successive turns of the spirally
applied armor or sheath overlap or are interlocked with one another.
This subclass is indented under subclass 68.1. Structures pertaining to the insulation of electric conductors
or cables.
(1)
Note. See Lines With Other Classes, Miscellaneous, above.
(2)
Note. For insulated conductors or cables enclosed in conductive
armors or sheaths, see this class, subclass 102 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. For conduit, cable and conductor structures involving
fluid insulation, see this class, subclass 24 and indented subclasses.
(4)
Note. For insulator structures, see this class, subclass
137 and indented subclasses.
(5)
Note. For structures under subclass 68.1 in which the conductors
or cables are insulated by being embedded in plastic or granular
material, other than mere coating, see this class, subclasses 96
and 98.
(6)
Note. For conduits having insulating supports for supporting
the conductors or cables therein, see this class, subclass 99.
(7)
Note. For insulating structures under subclass 68.1 having
two or more distinct ducts for receiving the conductors, see this
class, subclasses 95, 96 and 97.
(8)
Note. For uninsulated conductors or cables, see this class,
subclass 126.1 and indented subclasses.
(9)
Note. For insulating materials, per se, see the appropriate
fabric or composition classes. In addition to those search notes associated
with Lines With Other Classes, Miscellaneous, in the class definition,
the following are particularly noted; Class 154, Laminated Fabric
and Analogous Manufactures, especially subclass 2.6, Class 156,
Adhesive bonding and Miscellaneous Chemical Manufacture, subclasses
51+ for methods of covering indefinite length electric
conductors and Class 162, Paper Making and Fiber Liberation, especially
subclass 106.
Electrical Resistors,
subclass 214 for cable type resistors, subclasses 226+ for
an incased embedded or housed resistor, and especially subclasses 238+ and
243+ for electrical resistance elements in insulation with
an outer metallic sheath. See the class definition under Class
338 for certain classification lines relating to this subject matter.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Structures in which the insulating means includes relatively
short insulating elements in the form of buttons, plates, discs,
beads, etc., strung along or upon one or more conductors or cables.
(1)
Note. For similar structures in which the buttons, discs,
beads, etc., are specially designed or arranged to provide spaces for
a fluid, see this class, subclass 24 and indented subclasses, especially
subclass 28.
(2)
Note. For bead or disc type insulators specially designed
as mid-line spacers, see this class, subclass 146.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Structures in which the conductors or their insulation is
provided with distinctive markings or other means for identifying
the individual conductors.
(1)
Note. Compare this class, subclass 115, for multiple conductor
structures in which one or more of the conductors differ from the
others in size, shape, insulation, for other characteristics for
some special purpose other than or additional to mere identification.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Structures embodying two or more conductors insulated from
one another.
(1)
Note. For multiple conductor structures in which one of the
conductors encloses or surrounds another as, for example, in coaxial
or concentric type cables, see this class, subclasses 28, 29 and
102 and indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Structures in which two or more mutually insulated conductors,
or conductive strands, are specially designed to function as a single
conductor carrying the same current. The insulation between such
conductors is ordinarily superficial.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Structures in which one or more of the conductors differ
from the other in size, shape, insulation, or other characteristics
for some special purpose or function such as, testing, signaling, grounding,
etc.
(1)
Note. Where the conductors have distinguishing characteristics
solely for identification purposes, see this class, subclass 112.
(2)
Note. Coaxial or concentric type cables are in this class,
subclasses 28, 29 and 102 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. For multiple conductor structures in which one or more
of the conductors differ from the others for anti-inductive purposes,
see this class, subclass 32 and indented subclasses.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Structures in which the spaces or valleys between adjacent
conductors, which may be laid parallel or twisted, contain filler
insulation. Such filler insulation is usually of preformed strips
or strands, and together with the conductors forms an assembly having
a circular or other desired cross-section.
This subclass is indented under subclass 113. Structures in which the conductors and insulation are arranged
to form an assembly of noncircular cross-section.
(1)
Note. A twisted pair has been treated as of circular section.
(2)
Note. For single conductors embodying plural strands arranged
in noncircular formation, see this class, subclasses 119 and 129.
(3)
Note. Noncircular assemblies employing filler insulation
are placed in this class, subclass 116 and cross-referenced here.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Single conductor structures including as a part thereof
a material in powdered or granular form. The material may be either
conductive or nonconductive.
(2)
Note. For material in fluid form, see this class, subclass
8 and indented subclasses.
(3)
Note. Compare this class, subclasses 96 and 98, for the use
of powdered or granular material to embed conduits or ducts, or
to embed conductors in conduits or ducts.
Specialized Metallurgical Processes, Compositions
for Use Therein, Consolidated Metal Powder Compositions, and Loose
Metal Particulate Mixtures,
subclasses 228+ for a composition having a continuous phase of free
metal made by consolidating metal particles.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Single conductor structures in which the conductor (a) is
made of two or more materials, not mere constituents of a single
composition or alloy, or (b) is of noncircular cross-section. The
conductor may be either single or plural strand.
(1)
Note. For bare composite conductors, see this class, subclass
132.
(2)
Note. For bare noncircular conductors, see this class, subclasses
129 and 133.
(3)
Note. For noncircular assemblies of two or more conductors,
see this class, subclass 117.
This subclass is indented under subclass 110. Single conductor structures in which the insulation includes
(a) two or more layers of insulating material or (b) a single insulating
layer impregnated with a composition of matter.
(1)
Note. In this subclass have been placed all structures within
the above definition in which any insulating layer is other than
fibrous, or fabric, or plastic, or coating material. For definitions
of these terms, see the notes to subclass 121 of this class.
(2)
Note. Where one of the layers comprises a material in powdered
or granular form, see this class, subclass 118.
(3)
Note. See Class 428, Stock Material or Miscellaneous Articles,
subclasses 380+ for an insulated conductor which is no more
than a wire or filament with a plurality of layers of coating materials thereon.
This subclass is indented under subclass 120. Structures in which (a) one layer is fibrous or fabric and
a contiguous layer is plastic or coating material, or (b) a fibrous
or fabric layer is impregnated with a composition of matter.
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