A CABLE TAPPING DEVICE

Abstract

A B S T R A C T A cable tapping device for connecting each of four main conductors of an electric power cable to an associated branch conductor, wherein the cable tapping device comprises an innerjaw assembly and an outer clamping assembly. The innerjaw assembly comprises jaw members which can arranged adjacent to the main conductors and contact members. The outer clamping assembly comprises clamping members which are configured to clamp around the innerjaw assembly thereby establishing an electrical connection between the main conductors and the associated branch conductors via the contact members.

Description

P37005NL00 A CABLE TAPPING DEVICE The invention relates to a cable tapping device for electrically connecting a four main conductors power cable to an associated four branch conductors cable, e.g. used to connect a residential building, an EV-charging device, etc., to the electrical grid. Cable tapping devices are commonly used for connecting each main conductor of a power cable to an associated branch conductor of a branch cable, wherein the power cable does not have to be disconnected from the electrical grid, i.e. the power cable often will be live during the cable tapping process. In a widely employed embodiment, the power cable comprises four main conductors, namely three primary conductors and one grounding conductor. Often, the main conductors each have a sector-shaped cross-section. Each main conductor has a corresponding insulation layer. The four main conductors, and any auxiliary conductors when present, are surrounded by an outer sheath of the power cable, which outer sheath may comprise armour wires or the like and outer insulation. To apply the cable tapping device, the outer insulation of the power cable is locally removed, and possibly the armour shifted to a side, such that the insulated main conductors become exposed. The cable tapping device is then applied. The cable tapping device serves to connect each of the insulated conductors of the branch cable to the respective main conductor. Once the electrical connect has been established, in practice, the cable tapping device and the exposed region of the power cable as well as an end part of the branch cable are sealed, e.g. embedded in a hardenable resin compound, e.g. the resin filled into an envelope applied about the exposed region, e.g. as disclosed in W02021228857. Cable tapping devices for connecting multiple conductors to associated branch conductors are known. For example, EP1691450 discloses a cable tapping device comprises a housing which is configured to be arranged around the four main conductors. The housing comprises two housing parts which are pivotally connected to each other. The housing furthermore comprises a wedge member which splits the four main conductors into two groups of two main conductors. The device further comprises two pressure plates which are arranged at opposite sides of the housing, the pressure plates are connected by a screw which extends through apertures in the housing and splits the two groups of two main conductors into four separated main conductors. When the screw is tightened the pressure plates exert a pressure on the branch cables and contact members arranged in the housing, this pressure causes the _ 2 _ contact members to penetrate the insulation of both the main conductors and the branch conductors, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the cables. WO2011069852 discloses a cable tapping device which has a clamping frame made of two half shells that are arranged around four main conductors and which are connected to each other. The half shells comprise outwardly open spaces which are configured to receive the branch conductors. Four pressure pieces are arranged at these open spaces, the pressure pieces being configured to pivot. A tension element is arranged around the half shells, when this tension element is tensioned the pressure pieces are pivoted downwards such that they apply a pressure on the branch cables and contact members arranged in the halve shells. This pressure causes the contact members to penetrate the insulation of both the main conductors and the branch conductors, thereby establishing an electrical connection between the cables. Power cables are often buried underground, requiring a hole to be excavated around the cable for access in order to establish the branch connection. These holes are typically small in size and dug in open-air conditions, leaving operators exposed to the effects of weather. The voltage of the power cable forms a hazard. Additionally, once the branch connection has been completed and sealed, it becomes impossible to make any adjustments or corrections to the connection. The present invention therefore aims to provide a cable tapping device which facilitates a quick and reliable connection between four main conductors of a power cable and associated branch conductors or a branch cable, e.g. thereby reducing installation time whilst providing a reliable connection. The present invention provides a cable tapping device according to claim 1. The cable tapping device comprises a body and a tensioning member. The body comprises an innerjaw assembly and an outer clamping assembly. The innerjaw assembly comprises a first innerjaw member and a second innerjaw member. The first and second innerjaw members each have a first end and a second end. The first and second innerjaw members are at the first end thereof movably connected. The first and second jaw members are configured to be moved between an open position and a closed _ 3 _ position, wherein in the closed position the first and second innerjaw members are each adjacent to two of the four main conductors. Each innerjaw member is provided with contact members, each associated with a main conductor. Each contact member is configured to establish an electrical connection between one of the main conductors on an inside of the innerjaw member and an associated branch conductor on an outside of the innerjaw member. The outer clamping assembly comprises a first clamping member and a second clamping member, each clamping member having a first end and a second end. The first and second clamping members are at the first end thereof movably connected. The first and second clamping members are configured to be moved between an open position and a clamping position. The tensioning member is configured to urge the second ends of the first and second clamping members towards each other such that the first and second outer clamping members are moved towards the clamping position thereof. Vlth the innerjaw members in the closed position and with the branch conductors aligned with the respective contact member(s) at the outside of the innerjaw members, the first and second outer clamping members are configured to be moved towards the clamping position thereof by the tensioning member and to exert a force on the branch conductors and on the contact members in order to establish an electrical connection between each main conductor and a respective branch conductor via the associated contact member. The inventive cable tapping device provides for an integrated body comprising an innerjaw assembly and outer clamping assembly, wherein the actual electrical connection is established between each insulated main conductor and the respective insulated branch conductor as the result of a single action performed by the operator, i.e. urging the second ends of the first and second clamping members towards each other using the tensioning member. ln a practical embodiment, the clamping members and the tensioning member are configured such that a force of more than 1000 Newton is exerted when urging the second ends of the first and second clamping members towards each other, e.g. more than 2500 Newton. _ 4 _ Due to the inventive design, the number of components to be applied by the operator is limited, e.g. the body comprising the innerjaw assembly and the outer clamping assembly may from one pre-assembled body component. The tensioning member may, initially, be provided as a separate component only to be applied once the pre-assembled body component has been arranged about the power cable and the branch cable conductors are properly arranged. This allows for easy handling and quick installation. The design of the cable tapping device allows for a compact design in terms of volume, which also makes handling and installation easier, e.g. the later sealing being less voluminous. It is also envisaged that the tensioning member is connected to the body in a later stage of the tapping process. ln practical applications, during the tapping process, first the outer insulation layer is cut away from the power cable and any armour, e.g. cables or the like, is / are pulled a bit away from the main conductors and bundled, such that an operating space is created between the armour and the main conductors. Via this operating space the body of the cable tapping device is arranged. The compact design of the inventive tapping device makes it possible that only a limited length of the outer sheath of the power cable needs to be stripped away. For example, the operating space created by pulling away the armour can be relatively small due to the compact design; this requires a shorter length of exposed main conductors. This leads to a faster tapping operation, e.g. a smaller hole needs to be dug in the ground and / or filled in and / or less time needs to be spend cutting away the outer sheath and / or the later sealing with hardenable resin takes shorter time. ln practical application, with the first and second innerjaw members and the outer clamping members in the open position thereof, the cable tapping device is brought around the four exposed main conductors (and optionally any auxiliary conductors). By moving the first and second jaw members to the closed position, the first and second innerjaw members are each brought adjacent to two of the four main conductors, e.g. the first innerjaw adjacent to the two upper main conductors and the second innerjaw adjacent to two lower main conductors of a horizontally extending power cable (e.g. the power cable being buried). The innerjaw assembly is placed such that each contact member is brought in proximity of the associated insulated main conductor, and such that the piercing contact members can (when the tensioning member is used) only pierce the associated main conductor and not any other main conductors as that would cause a short-circuit. The insulated branch conductors are _ 5 _ each aligned with the respective contact member on the outside of the jaw members. Only when the first and second clamping members are then brought to the closed position by operating the tensioning member, each contact member pierces the insulation of the respective main conductor and of the respective branch conductor, thereby establishing an electrical connection between each main conductor and the associated branch conductor. 80, by urging the second outer ends of the first and second outer clamping members together, the four electrical connections are made using just one action of an operator. ln an embodiment, the first and second jaw members are embodied as semi-circularjaw members. When the first and second jaw members are in the closed position thereof, the semi-circularjaw members define a substantially circular receiving space between them. In the receiving space the four insulated main conductors are received. ln an embodiment, the first and second clamping members are embodied as semi-circular clamping members which in the closed position thereof extend substantially about or enclose the innerjaw members. ln an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members are identical to each other. This allows the first and second innerjaw members to be produced with the same mould by injection moulding. ln an embodiment, the first and second clamping members are identical to each other. This allows the first and second clamping members to be produced with the same mould by injection moulding. Additionally, by using identical innerjaw member and identical clamping members the assembly of the tapping device can be done more efficient. In a preferred embodiment, the first innerjaw member and the second innerjaw members are each pivotally connected, wherein the first and second jaw member are configured to be pivoted between the open position and the closed position. Furthermore, the first and second clamping members are each at the first end thereof pivotally connected, wherein the first and second clamping members are configured to be pivoted between the open position and the clamping position. The pivotable first and second innerjaw members and clamping members allow for a compact design. _ 6 _ In a preferred embodiment, the first innerjaw member and the second innerjaw member are pivotally connected to each other through an innerjaw hinge, e.g. including a hinge pin. The first clamping member is pivotally connected to one of the first or second innerjaw members through a first clamping member hinge, preferably connected to the first innerjaw member, e.g. including a hinge pin. The second clamping member is pivotally connected to the other of the first or second innerjaw members through a second clamping member hinge, preferably connected to the second innerjaw member, e.g. including a hinge pin. ln an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members both comprises a first and a second hinge knuckles at the first end thereof, wherein the second hinge knuckles of the first and second innerjaw member interlock with each other such that an innerjaw hinge pin is inserted through the second knuckles of both the first and second innerjaw members so as to form the innerjaw hinge. The first and second clamping members both comprise first knuckles, wherein the first knuckles of the first innerjaw member and the first knuckles of the first clamping member interlock with each other such that a first clamping hinge pin is inserted through the first knuckles of the first innerjaw member and first clamping members as to form the first clamping hinge. The first knuckles of the second innerjaw member and the first knuckles of the second clamping member interlock with each other such that a second clamping hinge pin is inserted through the first knuckles of the second innerjaw member and second clamping members as to form the second clamping hinge. It is also envisaged that the first knuckles of the first innerjaw member interlock with the first knuckles of the second clamping member and form the second clamping hinge and the first knuckles of the second innerjaw member interlock with the first knuckles of the first clamping member and form the second clamping hinge. In an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members and the first and second clamping members are all pivotally connected at one common hinge point, e.g. a single hinge pin connecting all four members. ln an embodiment, the first and second clamping members are pivotally connected to each other through a clamping hinge, wherein the first innerjaw member is pivotally connected to one of the first and second clamping members, and wherein the second innerjaw member is pivotally connected to the other of the first and second clamping members. In an embodiment, the body further comprises a base member, wherein the first and second innerjaw members are movably connected to the base member, e.g. a spaced apart _ 7 _ locations, and wherein the first and second clamping members are movably connected to the base member, e.g. at yet other spaced apart locations. ln an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members and the first and second clamping members are pivotally connected to the base member, preferably wherein the first and second innerjaw members are pivotally connected to the same point of the base member. ln an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members are at the first end thereof translatably connected to the base member, e.g. slidably towards one another, and the first and second clamping members are at the first end thereof translatably connected to the base member. For example, it is envisaged that the base member is an elongate base member, wherein the first and second innerjaw members and clamping members are movable towards one another. ln an embodiment, the tensioning member is configured to interconnect the second ends of the outer clamping members and configured to urge the interconnected second ends towards each other such that the first and second outer clamping members are moved towards the clamping position thereof. In an embodiment, the first innerjaw member and the second innerjaw member are at the second end thereof provided with cooperating locking members. The cooperating locking members are configured to lock the first and second innerjaw members in the closed position thereof. It is envisaged, that the locking members allow an operator to lock the innerjaw members such that the innerjaw assembly is not able to move, e.g. rotate, with respect to the main conductors. This facilitates the arrangement of the branch conductors. Preferably, the cooperating locking members are embodied as cooperating ratchet type locking members. Preferably, the locking members are configured to releasably lock the jaw members, e.g. the locking members can be unlocked for adjustment. Preferably, the locking members are arranged such thatwhen the first and second innerjaw members are moved from the open position to the closed position, the locking members automatically engage each other and lock the jaw members in the closed position. ln an embodiment, the innerjaw assembly comprises one or more positioning members arranged on the inside of the first and / or second innerjaw member(s), wherein the positioning member(s) is / are configured to position the innerjaw assembly with respect to the main conductors, e.g. such that the contact members are each correctly arranged in proximity of the associated main conductor and the contact members are not able to make contact with _ 8 _ any other main conductor. If the contact members would not be arranged properly and a contact member would make contact with a wrong main conductor and / or if an individual contact member makes contact with two main conductors at the same time, a short circuit could / will occur. The positioning member(s) makes it easier for an operator to properly position the innerjaw assembly, thereby enhancing a reliable tapping process. ln an embodiment, the first and / or second innerjaw members comprise one or more inwardly protruding positioning members. In an embodiment, the one or more inwardly protruding positioning members are configured to enter into a groove present between two adjacent main conductors at the outer periphery of the main conductors. Such a groove is often present as each main conductor is not a perfect sector-shape in cross-section. The positioning member, e.g. can then be embodied to fit into the groove, e.g. having sides engaging the two main conductors. It is noted that power cables are known, e.g. used in The Netherlands, wherein in such a groove an insulated auxiliary conductor is present, having a cross-section smaller than each of the main conductors. For example, it is known that a power cable has four insulated auxiliary conductors, each arranged in a corresponding groove at the outer periphery of the four main conductors. ln an embodiment, each of the innerjaw members, or at least one of the innerjaw members, has an inwardly protruding positioning member which is configured to engage one an auxiliary conductor. For example, these one or more auxiliary conductors are used for providing power to less demanding consumers, e.g. for streetlights, signs, etc. Due to the positioning member(s) engaging when the innerjaw assembly is placed about the main conductors the auxiliary conductor(s) and / or the main conductor(s), feedback, e.g. tactile and / or visual, will be provided to the operator that the innerjaw assembly is positioned correctly. Generally, the operator may / will feel the engagement of the positioning member(s) signalling that the innerjaw assembly has been positioned correctly, making it easier to correctly position the cable tapping device. Additionally, when positioned correctly the engagement of the positioning members will make it more difficult for the innerjaw assembly to be rotated to a non-correct / non-aligned position, e.g. the positioning members rotationally restrain the innerjaw assembly prior to the final closing of the outer clamping assembly. ln an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members each comprise a pair of inwardly protruding positioning members which are spaced apart from each other, such that an auxiliary conductor can be received between them. _ 9 _ ln an embodiment, the first and second innerjaw members each comprise one inwardly protruding member, e.g. embodied as a wedge-shaped member, which is configured to be placed in the groove between two main conductors. In the context of the present invention, it is preferred that the main conductors, and if present the auxiliary conductors, remain in their original arrangementwhen applying the tapping device. So, it is preferred that the innerjaw members are applied about these conductors in their original arrangement, so as the power cable has been manufactured. This avoids the need to create one or more spaces between the (main) conductors, as often seen in prior art tapping devices. However, whilst less preferred, the inventive cable tapping device could be provided with or associated with a spacer member configured to be placed between main conductors, e.g. between the two main conductors to be covered by the first innerjaw member and the two main conductors to be covered by the second innerjaw member. For example, such a spacer member is a separate component to be applied between main conductors prior to arranging the cable tapping device. ln an embodiment, the body comprises a horizontal spacer member, which is configured to be wedged between the two upper and the two lower main conductors. In an embodiment, the body comprises a vertical spacer member, which is configured to be wedged between the two left and the two right main conductors. ln an embodiment, the innerjaw assembly comprises one or more retaining members associated with each branch conductor. The one or more retaining members are configured to retain a branch conductor, e.g. by a snap-fit connection, wherein each retaining member is arranged such that a retained branch conductor is retained in close proximity of a respective contact member. The presence of retaining members allows an operator to correctly arrange the branch conductors one by one, by engaging a branch conductor with the retaining member and then letting go of said conductor to arrange another branch conductor. This can be done, without the risk of the branch conductor leaving the correct position. Additionally, when the retaining members retain the branch conductors by a snap-fit connection, it provides a feedback to an operator that the branch conductor is correctly retained, which is especially beneficial for the branch conductors which need to be retained on a downward facing side of an innerjaw assembly. _ 10 _ ln an embodiment, the retaining member(s) is / are provided directly outward of an associated contact member, such thatwhen the branch conductors are all retained by the retaining members, the branch conductors each are in close proximity of the respective contact member. It is preferred thatwhen a branch conductor is initially retained by a retaining member, the contact member does not pierce the insulation of the branch conductor. ln an embodiment, the innerjaw assembly has two contact members and associated two retaining members for each main conductor, e.g. each innerjaw member comprises four contact members. Preferably, the two contact members and associated retaining members are arranged spaced apart, viewed along the length of the power cable. The two contact members and associated two retaining members allow for a secure connection and retainment. Additionally, the two retaining members ensure that the branch conductor runs parallel to the associated main conductor, e.g. the part of the branch conductor retained by the innerjaw assembly. ln an embodiment, the first and / or second innerjaw members comprise a viewing aperture, wherein when the innerjaw assembly is positioned correctly the viewing aperture is aligned with the intersection of the two upper main conductors or both lower main conductors. Preferably, the first and / or second innerjaw members comprise one or more alignment check members. The alignment check members being embodied as either alignment check protrusions or alignment check recess which when the innerjaw assembly is positioned correctly extend along the longitudinal axis of the power cable and are aligned with the intersection of the two upper conductors or the two lower main conductors. Preferably, two alignment check members are arranged at both the first and / or second innerjaw members which extend from different sides of the jaw members along the longitudinal axis of the power cable either in a direction towards the jaw members in the case of alignment check recesses or in a direction away from the jaw members in the case of alignment check protrusions. The viewing aperture allows an operator to visually check whether the innerjaw assembly is correctly positioned relative to the main conductors. If the innerjaw assembly is not positioned correctly, the operator will only see one of the main conductors through the viewing aperture, or a large majority of the view in the viewing aperture is taken up by one of the main conductors. ln an embodiment, if the innerjaw assembly is positioned correctly approximately half of the view through the viewing aperture will be taken up by one of the upper or lower main conductors, and the other approximately half of the view will be taken up by the other upper or lower main conductor. Alternatively, if an auxiliary conductor is present _ 11 _ an operator can check if the auxiliary conductor lies in the approximate middle of the viewing aperture to check whether the innerjaw assembly is correctly positioned. The alignment check members provide a similar functionality as the viewing aperture, when the innerjaw assembly is positioned correctly the alignment check members will be aligned with the intersection of the two upper or lower main conductors or with the auxiliary conductor. The insulation layers of the main conductors usually have different bright colours, which makes it easier for an operator the check the alignment, e.g. even in lower light conditions. The viewing aperture and / or alignment check members thus provides and quick and easyway for an operator to check whether the innerjaw member is properly positioned, or if a repositioning is required. ln an embodiment, the contact members are embodied as double-sided tooth bodies, e.g. plates, the bodies being made of an electrically conductive material such as a metal. When the first and second outer clamping members are moved towards the clamping position thereof, one side of teeth of the double sided tooth body puncture the insulation of a respective branch connector and the other side of teeth of the double sided tooth plate puncture the insulation of a respective main connector, such that an electrical connection between each main conductor and a respective associated branch conductor via the double sided tooth bodies. ln an embodiment, the contact members of the innerjaw assembly are each movably, e.g. slidably, received in the respective firstjaw member and second innerjaw member. The contact members are movable between a starting position and a connection position relative to the innerjaw members. In the connection position the contact member pierces the insulation of a respective main conductor such that an electrical connection between the contact member and the respective main conductor is established. The first and second clamping members are configured to when being moved from the open to the clamping position exert, e.g. indirectly via the branch conductor sandwiched between the contact member and the clamping member, a force on the contact members, thereby moving the contact members from their starting position to the connection position. ln an embodiment, the first and second clamping members are configured to first exert a force on the branch conductors causing the contact members to pierce the insulation layer of the branch conductors. Secondly, the first and second clamping members move the contact members along with the branch conductors from the starting position to the connection position, such that an electrical connection is established between the main conductors and the respective branch conductors. _ 12 _ Alternatively, the first and second clamping members are configured to, first exert a force on the branch conductors and the contact members causing the contact members to be moved from the starting position to the connection position, wherein the insulation layer of the branch conductor is not, e.g. fully, pierced by the contact members. Secondly, the force causes the contact members to pierce the insulation layer of the main conductors, when the contact members are fully in the connection position, the contact members are no longer able to move, the inward force acting on the branch conductors will then cause the contact members to fully pierce the insulation layer of the branch conductors. ln an embodiment, the tensioning member is a threaded fastener assembly, preferably a single threaded fastener assembly, wherein the threaded fastener assembly is configured to interconnect the second ends of the first and second clamping members. The threaded fastener assembly can be tightened, e.g. by a user using a power tool, in order to urge the second ends of the first and second clamping members towards each other, preferably pivoting the clamping members towards each other and about the innerjaw assembly. For example, the threaded fastener assembly comprises a nut member mounted, e.g. pivotally mounted, at a second end of one clamping member and a bolt screwed into the nut member, with the bolt having a head which is engageable with the second end of the other clamping member. Preferably, the threaded fastener assembly has a drive portion, e.g. a drive head, with a predetermined tear-off torque, wherein the drive portion of the tensioning member is configured to tear offwhen the predetermined tear-off torque has been reached. This provides the operator with a clear indication that the tensioning member and thus the tapping device has been properly tightened. As indicated, the clamping force could be more than 1000 Newton, e.g. more than 2000 Newton, e.g. about 6000 Newton. ln an embodiment, each of the second ends of the clamping members is embodied as a forked end, and the tensioning member, e.g. the threaded fastener assembly, is configured to be engaged with said forked ends. ln an embodiment, each of the second ends of the innerjaw members is embodied as a forked end, allowing the tensioning member, e.g. the threaded fastener assembly, to pass in between the fork portions when interconnecting the second ends of the clamping members. _ 13 _ ln an embodiment, the locking members are integrated with the fork portions of the forked second ends, e.g. locking each forked portion of one innerjaw member to the opposing forked portion of the other innerjaw member. ln an embodiment, the first and second clamping members are configured to be moved to an intermediate position which is between the open and closed position, wherein in the intermediate position the tensioning member is made to interconnect the second ends of the first and second clamping members. As discussed, in embodiments, the tensioning member is initially provided as a separate component, only to be applied once the body of the device has been installed about the power cable and with the branch conductors properly arranged. ln an embodiment, the tensioning member is configured as a tensioning strap, which is arranged around the outer clamping members, wherein the tensioning strap is configured to be tensioned such that the second ends of the first and second clamping members are urged towards each other. ln an embodiment, when the innerjaw assembly has been correctly positioned and, preferably locked, and the first and second clamping members are in the open position, the operator can place the branch conductors in the correct position, e.g. held by the retaining members. Once the branch conductors are correctly positioned, the first and second clamping members are moved to the intermediate position. The cable tapping device is configured such that during the movement from the open position to the intermediate position no force is applied by the clamping members to the contact members or to the branch conductors. In the intermediate position the tensioning member, e.g. a bolt, is made to interconnect the second ends of the first and second clamping members. For example, the tensioning member is hinged to the second end of one of the clamping members initially and then swung to engage the second end of the other clamping member. The first and second clamping members are then moved from the intermediate position to the clamping position due to the tensioning member being operated, thereby urging the second outer end of the first and second clamping members towards each other. In a practical embodiment, the innerjaw assembly, and the outer clamping assembly are all made of a non-electrically conductive material, e.g. a plastic material, e.g. a fibre reinforced plastic material, e.g. injection molded. For example, the hinge(s) include a metallic hinge pin passing through the connected plastic parts of the body. _ 14 _ ln an embodiment, the first and second clamping members comprise on the inside thereof one or more ribs which are configured to engage on the branch conductors. Preferably, the first and second clamping members comprise one or more ribs which each extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the power cable. When multiple ribs are present, e.g. two parallel ribs, they are spaced from one another in said longitudinal direction. Preferably, the inside edges of the ribs are shaped such that they approximately simultaneously engage all branch conductors when closing the clamping assembly. ln an embodiment, the first end of the first and second clamping members are pivotally connected. The one or more ribs on the inside thereof are shaped such that they approximately simultaneously engage on all branch conductors. ln an embodiment, the cable tapping device comprises a ground conductor clamping member which is configured to clamp the ground branch conductor. The ground cable clamping member comprises a clamping nut, and optionally a clamping clip, wherein the clamping clip is configured to be or is connected to the body. The clamping nut being embodied as an earth stud, which is configured to receive and clamp the ground branch conductor. The clip is configured to retain the clamping nut, e.g. wherein the clamping nut clamps the ground branch conductor. ln an embodiment, when the branch conductors are positioned correctly, e.g. in the retaining members of the innerjaw assembly, three of the four branch conductors, except for the ground branch conductor, may be cut such that they do not extend out of the cable tapping device at one axial end thereof. This hinders inadvertently contacting an exposed outer end of the branch conductor once the electrical connection has been established between the main and branch conductors. Furthermore, the first and second innerjaw members or the first and second clamping members may comprise one or more detachable tabs, e.g. tearable tabs, wherein each tearable tab is arranged such that an exposed end of a branch conductors is covered (in axial direction) when the tab is still in place. At the side where the conductors of the branch cable reach the tapping device, the tabs are detached to make room for the conductors. Preferably, the first and second innerjaw members or the first and second clamping members comprise eight detachable, e.g. tearable tabs, wherein, depending on the orientation of the branch cable and the cable tapping device, five of the eight tearable tabs are teared off such _ 15 _ that the branch conductors can be correctly positioned, wherein the three remaining tearable tabs remain in position to cover the exposed outer ends of the three branch conductors. Preferably, the detachable / tearable tabs each comprise an opening, e.g. a small opening, through which part of a measurement device, e.g. a voltmeter or a multimeter, can be inserted to make contact with the exposed ends of the branch conductors. The opening making it possible to measure whether a successful electrical connection has been established. These openings are dimensioned such that a body part, e.g. a fingertip, of an operator is not able to touch the exposed outer end of the branch conductor. The invention further relates to a method for establishing an electrical connection between a four main conductors power cable and an associated four branch conductors cable, wherein use is made of a cable tapping device described herein. As discussed, in embodiments, the power cable is live during the process. ln an embodiment, the method comprising the steps of: - arranging the cable tapping device with the innerjaw assembly and the outer clamping assembly in open position about the exposed four main conductors of the power cable, - moving the first and second innerjaw members from the open position to the closed position, e.g. locking the innerjaw assembly, such that the innerjaw members are each adjacent to two of the main conductors, - arranging the four branch conductors, each aligned with a respective contact member(s) at the outside of the innerjaw members, - preferably, interconnecting the second outer ends of the first and second clamping members of the outer clamping assembly by means of the tensioning member, - urging the second ends of the first and second clamping member towards each other using the tensioning member, such that the first and second clamping members are moved to the clamping position thereof, and such an electrical connection is established between each of the four main conductors and the respective branch conductor via the contact members. ln an embodiment, the outer first end of the first and second innerjaw members and the first end of the first and second clamping members are pivotally connected, wherein the method comprises the steps of: - pivoting the first and second innerjaw members from the open position to the closed position, _ 16 _ - pivoting the first and second clamping members from the open position to the closed position. ln an embodiment, the method further comprises one or more of the following steps: - using the positioning member(s) on the inside of the first and / or second innerjaw members to position the innerjaw assembly with respect to the four main conductors, - removing one or more of the detachable / tearable tabs, - retaining the four branch conductors by the respective retaining member(s) of the innerjaw assembly, e.g. snap fitting the four branch conductors in the retaining members, - visually checking using the viewing aperture and / or alignment check members if the innerjaw assembly is positioned correctly relative to the main conductors, - locking the first and second innerjaw members relative to each other using the cooperating locking members, - moving the first and second clamping members from the open position to an intermediate position, wherein in the intermediate position the tensioning member is made to connect the second outer ends of the first and second clamping members, wherein the first and second clamping members are moved from the intermediate position to the clamping position by the tensioning member which urges the second outer ends of the first and second clamping members towards each other. The invention will now be discussed with reference to the figures. In the figures: - Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an example of the cable tapping device with the innerjaw assembly arranged and locked around the conductors of a power cable, - Figs. 2a,b, d show vertical cross-sections of the cable tapping device shown in Fig. 1, - Fig. 2c shows another design of the positioning members, - Fig. 3 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the cable tapping device, - Fig. 4 shows a top view of the first innerjaw member of the device of figure 1, - Figs. 5a-c show a perspective view of the clamping member and the innerjaw member of the device of figure 1, - Fig. 6 shows a perspective view of the cable tapping device of figure 1 clamped on the main conductors, - Figs. 7a-e show steps of establishing an electrical connection between each main conductor and the associated branch conductor using the cable tapping device of figure 1. _ 17 _ Figure 1 shows an example of a cable tapping device 10 configured and used for connecting each of four main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of an electric power cable 1 to an associated branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d of a branch cable 3. The power cable 1 has four insulated main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, here each with a sector-shaped cross-section. Three primary main conductor 2a, 2c, 2d and one ground main conductor 2b. Each main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d has an insulation layer 4. The exemplary power cable 1 further has four insulated auxiliary conductors 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d. The auxiliary conductors are each arranged in a corresponding groove at the outer periphery of the four main conductors, each groove between two adjacent main conductors at the outer periphery. As discussed, this type of power cable is for example used in The Netherlands. In an embodiment, the power cable just has the four insulated main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. It is shown here, that the conductors of the power cable 1 may be twisted, so do not extend entirely parallel to the longitudinal axis of the power cable 1. The outer sheath of the cable 1 includes a metallic armour 5, e.g. metallic armour cables, which surrounds the conductors. The sheath includes an outer insulation layer 6, e.g. in which the armour cables 5 are embedded. The cable tapping device 10 comprises a body and a tensioning member 80. The body here is a pre-assembled body component, which comprises an innerjaw assembly 20 and an outer clamping assembly 50. The innerjaw assembly 20 has a first innerjaw member 21 and a second innerjaw member 22 each having a first end 21a, 22a and a second end 21b, 22b. The first and second inner jaw members 21, 22 are at the first end 21a, 22a thereof movably, here pivotally as preferred, connected. The first and second jaw members 21, 22 are configured to be moved between an open position, shown in Figure 7a and a closed position, shown in Figure 2b. The innerjaw members 21, 22 are semi-circular. The innerjaw members 21, 22 are configured to be applied about the conductors of the cable 1 in their original arrangement, so as the power cable 1 has been manufactured. This avoids the need to create one or more spaces between the (main) conductors. _ 18 _ In the closed, and preferably locked, position the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 are each adjacent to two of the four main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. For example, the first innerjaw member 21 is adjacent to the two upper main conductors 2a, 2b and the second innerjaw member 22 is adjacent to the lower main conductors 2c, 2c, e.g. when the cable 1 extends about horizontally in an excavated hole where the cable tapping device 10 is to be applied. The jaws of the innerjaw assembly 20 each are provided with contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, e.g. pairs of contact members, each to be associated with a respective main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. The contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d are configured to establish an electrical connection between each of the main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d and an associated branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. The outer clamping assembly 50 has a first clamping member 51 and a second clamping member 52, each having a first end 51a, 52a and a second end 51b, 52b. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 are at the first end 51a, 52a thereof movably, here pivotally as preferred, connected. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 are configured to be moved between an open position, shown in Figure 2a, and a clamping position, shown in Figure 2d. As seen in Figures 5a-c, the first innerjaw member 21 and the second innerjaw member 22 are pivotally connected to each other through an innerjaw hinge 30. The first clamping member 51 is pivotally connected to one of the first innerjaw members 21 through a first clamping member hinge 31. The second clamping member 52 is pivotally connected to the second innerjaw member 22 through a second clamping member hinge 32. The first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 both comprises first and second hinge knuckles 34, 33 at the first end 21a, 22a thereof. The second hinge knuckles 33 of the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 interlock with each other and a metallic innerjaw hinge pin 35 has been inserted through the second knuckles 33 of both the first and second inner jaw members 21, 22 so as to form the innerjaw hinge 30. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 both comprise first knuckles 36. The first knuckles 34 of the first innerjaw member 21 and the first knuckles 36 of the first clamping member 51 interlock with each other and a metallic first clamping hinge pin 37 has been _ 19 _ inserted through the first knuckles 34 of the first innerjaw member 21 and first clamping members 51 as to form the first clamping hinge 31. The first knuckles 34 of the second innerjaw member22 and the first knuckles 36 of the second clamping member 52 interlock with each other and a metallic second clamping hinge pin 38 has been inserted through the first knuckles 34 of the second innerjaw member 22 and second clamping member 52 as to form the second clamping hinge 32. The cable tapping device 10 further comprises a tensioning member 80, as preferred a single tensioning member, preferably initially provided as a separated part. The tensioning member 80 here is configured to interconnect the second ends 51b, 52b of the first and second outer clamping members 51, 52 and to forcefully urge the second ends 51b, 52b towards each other such that the first and second outer clamping members 51, 52 are moved towards the clamping position thereof, generally about the closed innerjaw assembly 20. For example, as shown, the tensioning member is embodied as a threaded fastener assembly 80 comprises a nut member 80b mounted, here pivotally mounted, at a second end 52b of one clamping member 52 and a bolt having threaded shaft 80d screwed into the nut member 80b. The bolt has a head 80c which is engageable with the second end 51b of the other clamping member 51. Preferably, as shown, the threaded fastener assembly has a drive portion, e.g. a drive head 80a, with a predetermined tear-off torque, wherein the drive portion of the tensioning member is configured to tear offwhen the predetermined tear-off torque has been reached. This provides the operator with a clear indication that the tensioning member and thus the tapping device 10 has been properly tightened. As indicated, the clamping force could be more than 1000 Newton, e.g. more than 2000 Newton, e.g. about 6000 Newton. As shown and preferred, each of the second ends 51b, 52b of the clamping members is embodied as a forked end and the threaded fastener assembly 80 is configured to be engaged with said forked ends. As shown and preferred, each of the second ends of the innerjaw members 21, 22 is embodied as a forked end, allowing the tensioning member 80 to pass in between the fork portions when interconnecting the second ends 51b, 52b of the clamping members 51, 52. -20- As shown and preferred, the locking members 28 are integrated with the fork portions of the forked second ends, e.g. locking each forked portion of one innerjaw member to the opposing forked portion of the other innerjaw member. Vlth the innerjaw members 21, 22 in the closed, and preferably locked, position and with the four branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d aligned with the respective contact member(s) 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d at the outside of the innerjaw members 21, 22, as shown in Figure 7c, the first and second outer clamping members 51, 52 are configured to be moved towards the clamping position thereof by the tensioning member 80. This causes a force on the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and thereby on the contact members in order to establish an electrical connection between each main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d and a respective branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d via the contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d. The first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 are embodied as semi-circularjaw members. When the first and second jaw members 21, 22 are in the closed position thereof, the semi- circularjaw members 21, 22 define a substantially circular receiving space between them. In the receiving space the four main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d and, in this example, also the auxiliary conductors received. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 are embodied as semi-circular clamping members which in the closed position thereof surround / enclose the innerjaw members 21, 22 with the branch conductors being sandwiched between the contact members and the clamping members. Figure 3 shows another embodiment of the tapping device 10, wherein the body further comprises a base member 11. The base member 11 is substantially elongated, having a first outer end 11a, a middle portion 11b and a second outer end 11c. The first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 are at the first end 21a, 22a thereof translatably connected to the base member 11, and the first and second clamping members 51, 52 are at the first end 51a, 52a thereof translatably connected to the base member 11, wherein the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 and clamping member 51, 52 are configured to be moved towards one anotherwhen the tensioning member 80 is operated. lnstead of translatable connections, the connections to the base member could also be formed by hinges, e.g. each including a hinge pin. ln another embodiment, only the innerjaw members are connected to the base member, e.g. each via a _ 21 _ respective hinge, with the outer clamping members each being hinged to a respective inner jaw member. As can be seen in Figure 2b, the main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d are not perfect quarter sector-shaped in cross-section. There is a groove between two adjacent main conductors at the periphery of the power cable. The auxiliary conductors 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d are each arranged in a respective groove. The figures show that first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 may each have two inwardly protruding positioning members 24 which are arranged on the inside of the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22. The positioning members 24 are configured to position the innerjaw assembly 20 with respect to main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. The two positioning members 24 of both the first and second innerjaw member 21, 22 are spaced apart from each other, such that an auxiliary conductor 7a, 7c can be positioned between them. For example, the two positioning members form a partly circular receiving space between them, in which an auxiliary conductor 7a, 7c can be received. The two positioning members engage the auxiliary conductor 7a, 7c. In an alternative embodiment shown in Figure 2c, the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 each comprise one inwardly protruding member 24, e.g. embodied as a wedge member, which is configured to fit in the groove between two main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d when the cable 1 has no auxiliary conductors, and engage on the main conductors cables 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. Each of the innerjaws 21, 22 of the innerjaw assembly 20 has retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d on the outside thereof, in order to individually retain each branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. The retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are configured to retain an insulated branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, e.g. by a snap-fit connection. Each retaining member 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d is arranged such that a retained branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d is in close proximity of a respective contact member 23. The retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are arranged directly outward of an associated contact member, or pair of contact members, 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d, such thatwhen the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are retained by the retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d, the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are in close proximity with an associated contact member 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d. -22- As shown in Figure 4, the innerjaw assembly 20 has a pair of contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d and associated retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d for each branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. The first innerjaw member 21 has four contact members 23a, 23b and four retaining members 25a, 25b in total, and the second innerjaw members 22 also has four contact members 23c, 23d and four retaining members 25c, 25d. The two contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d of a pair and the associated retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d are arranged spaced apart, viewed along the length of the power cable 1. The contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d are embodied as double-sided tooth bodies, here plates, the plates being made of an electrically conductive material such as a metal. When the first and second outer clamping members 51, 52 are moved towards the clamping position thereof, one side, the outer side, of teeth of the double sided tooth plate 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d puncture the insulation of a respective branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and the other side, the inner side, of teeth of the double sided tooth plate puncture the insulation of a respective main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, such that an electrical connection between each main conductor and a respective associated branching cable via the double sided tooth plates. Each contact member 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d of the innerjaw assembly 20 is slidably received in the respective first innerjaw member 21 and in the respective second innerjaw member 22. The contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d are configured to be moved between a starting position, shown in Figure 2a, and a connection position, shown in Figure 2d. In the connection position the contact members 32 each pierce through the insulation of a respective main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d such that an electrical connection between the contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d and the respective main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d can be established. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 are configured to when being moved from the open to the clamping position - exert a force on the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, thereby moving the contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d from the starting position to the connection position. -23- As shown in Figure 4, the first innerjaw member 21 has a viewing aperture 26. When the innerjaw assembly 20 is positioned correctly the viewing aperture 26 is approximately aligned with the auxiliary conductor 7a, the first innerjaw member has two arrows pointing towards the viewing aperture, drawing the operators attention towards said viewing aperture. Alternatively, when there are no auxiliary conductors 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d present, the viewing aperture 26 aligns with the intersection of the two upper main conductors 2a, 2b, e.g. approximately half of the view through the viewing aperture 26 will be taken up by one of the upper main conductors 2a and the other approximately half of the view will be taken up by the other upper main conductor 2b,. The first innerjaw member 21 further has two alignment check members 27 here embodied as alignment check protrusions 27, which when the innerjaw assembly 20 is positioned correctly - extend along the longitudinal axis of the power cable 1 and are aligned with an auxiliary conductor 7a. The two alignment check members 27 extend from different sides of the first innerjaw member 21 away from the first innerjaw member 21 along the longitudinal axis of the power cable 1. Alternatively, when there are no auxiliary conductors 7a, 7b, 7c, 7d present, the alignment check members 27 align with the intersection of the two upper main conductors 2a, 2b The first innerjaw member 21 and the second innerjaw member 22 are at the second end thereof provided with cooperating locking members 28. The cooperating locking members 28 are configured to lock the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 in the closed position thereof. The cooperating locking members 28 are, for example, embodied as cooperating ratchet type locking members. Preferably, the locking members are configured to releasably lock the innerjaw members 21, 22. Preferably, the locking members 28 are arranged such thatwhen the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 are moved from the open position to the closed position, the locking members 28 automatically engage each other and lock the innerjaw members in the closed position. As shown in Figure 6, the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 each comprise two cooperating locking members. The first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 each comprise one ratchet strip 28 and each comprise a ratchet strip receiving opening 28, the ratchet strip and ratchet strip receiving opening 28 being arranged such thatwhen the clamping members 51, 52 are moved to the clamping position, the ratchet strips of the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 are received in a ratchet strip receiving opening in the other one of the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22. -24- In the shown embodiments, the tensioning member 80 is a single bolt, wherein the bolt is configured to be interconnect the second ends 51b, 52b of the first and second clamping members 51, 52. The bolt 80 can be tightened, e.g. by an operator using a power tool, in order to urge the second ends 51b, 52b the first and second clamping members 51, 52 towards each other, preferably pivot towards each other. Preferably, the bolt has a predetermined tear-off torque, wherein a drive head of the bolt is configured to tear offwhen the predetermined tear-off torque has been reached. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 are configured to be moved to an intermediate position, shown in Figure 7d, which is between the open and closed position, wherein in the intermediate position the tensioning member 80 is configured to be connected to the second end 51b, 52b of the first and second clamping members 51, 52. The first and second clamping members 51, 52 comprise on the inside one or more ribs 53 which are configured to exert the inward force on the contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d and / or on the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. Here, two parallel ribs 53 each extend in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the power cable 1. The ribs 53 of the members 51, 52 are shaped such that they approximately simultaneously engage all branch conductors. The cable tapping device 10 here further comprises a ground conductor clamping member 55 which is configured to clamp the ground branch conductor. The ground cable clamping member here comprises a clamping nut and a clamping clip, wherein the clamping clip is configured to be or is connected to the body. The clamping nut is embodied as an earth stud, which is configured to receive and clamp the ground branch conductor. The clip is configured to retain the clamping nut, e.g. wherein the clamping nut clamps the ground branch conductor. As shown in Figure 6, when the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are positioned correctly, e.g. in the retaining members of the innerjaw assembly, three of the four branch conductors 3a, 3c, 3d, except for the ground branch conductor 3b, are cut such that they do not extend out of the cable tapping device 10 at one outer axial end thereof. It is shown that the first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 or the first and second clamping members 51, 52 comprise one or more detachable tabs, here tearable tabs 54, wherein the tearable tabs are arranged such that the cut ends of the branch conductors are covered. -25- The first and second innerjaw members or the first and second clamping members here have eight tearable tabs 54, wherein, depending on the orientation of main conductors and the cable tapping device, five of the eight tearable tabs 54 are teared off such that the branch conductors can be correctly positioned, wherein the three remaining tearable tabs 54 remain in position to cover the exposed outer ends of the three branch conductors. The tearable tabs 54 here each have an opening through which a part of a measurement device, e.g. a voltmeter or a multimeter, can be inserted to make contact with the exposed ends of the branch conductor. ln an embodiment not shown, the body comprises a horizontal spacer member, which is configured to be arranged, e.g. wedged, between the two upper and the two lower main conductors. ln an embodiment not shown, the body 20 comprises a vertical spacer member, which is configured to be wedged between the two left and the two right main conductors. The invention further relates to a method for establishing an electrical connection between a four main conductor power cable and an associated four branch conductor cable, exemplary steps of the method are shown in Figures 7a-e: The outer sheath 6 of a section of the power cable 1 is removed, e.g. cut away. The armour 5 is then pulled away from the conductor and bundled. As shown in Figure 7a, the cable tapping device 10 is then passed between the armour 5 and the conductors, so that the cable tapping device 10 becomes arranged with the innerjaw assembly 20 about the conductors and the outer clamping assembly 50 in open position. The first and second innerjaw members 21, 22 are pivoted from the open position to the closed position, such that the innerjaw members 21, 22 are each adjacent to two main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d, resulting in the situation shown in Figure 7b. The first innerjaw member 21 is adjacent to the two upper main conductors 2a, 2b, and the second innerjaw member 22 is adjacent to the two lower main conductors 2c, 2d. The positioning members 24 are used to position the innerjaw assembly 20 with respect to the four main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. -26- The operator can use the viewing aperture 26 and / or alignment check members 27 to check if the innerjaw assembly 20 is positioned correctly with respect to the four main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. The first and second innerjaw members 21, 222 are locked in the closed position by the cooperating locking members 28 when the innerjaw assembly 20 has been positioned correctly. Depending on the orientation of the innerjaw assembly and the four main conductors, five of the eight tearable tabs 54 are removed. As shown in Figure 7c, the four branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are arranged such that they each align with a pair of respective contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d at the outside of the innerjaw members 21, 22. The four branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d are each snap-fitted and retained by the retaining members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d of the innerjaw assembly 20. The three primary branch conductors 3a, 3c, 3d are cut such that they do not extend out of one of the axial sides of the innerjaw assembly 20, the ground branch conductor 3b is connected also by the clamping nut 55 to the metallic armour 5. As shown in Figure 7d, with the innerjaw assembly closed and locked, and with the branch conductors retained, the outer clamping members 51, 52 are then pivoted from the open position to an intermediate position. The tensioning member 80 is then used to interconnect the second ends 51b, 52b of the first and second clamping members 51, 52. It is preferred, that during the pivoting of the outer clamping members 51, 52 from the open position to the intermediate position, the outer clamping members 51, 52 do not exert a force on the contact members 25a, 25b, 25c, 25d or the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. In the shown embodiments, the tensioning member 80, here a bolt, is already connected to the second end 52b of the second clamping member 52 from the start. Alternatively, the tensioning member 80 can be connected to the second ends 51b, 52b of the clamping members 51, 52 only once the clamping members 51, 52 are in the intermediate position shown in Figure 7d. As shown in Figure 7e, the tensioning member 80 is then operated, e.g. using a power tool, to forcefully urge the first and second clamping members 51, 52 from the intermediate position to the clamping position. During the movement of the first and second clamping members 51, _g7- 52 from the intermediate position to the closing position, the two ribs 53 of each clamping member engage on two of the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d and thereby on the contact members 23a, 23b, 23c, 23d. these members pierce the insulation layers of the main conductors 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d and of the branch conductors 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d, thereby establishing an electrical connection between each main conductor 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d and the respective branch conductor 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. As discussed, once the tapping has been done, a voltmeter or the like can be used to check the correct connection, eg the probe of the voltmeter being inserted through an opening in a tearable tab Once the correctness of the tapping has been checked, the operator may proceed to seal the branch joint in a sealing arrangement, eg using a hardenable resin which is filled into a sealing structure, eg as in WO2021228857. CONCLUSION 1. A cable splitter (10) for electrically connecting a power cable (1) that four main conductors has with a cable (3) which has four branch conductors, where the cable branching device comprises a body: where the body comprises an inner jaw assembly (20) and an outer clamp assembly (50), which the inner jaw assembly (20) includes: - a first inner jaw (21) and a second inner jaw (22), each with a has a first end and a second end, where the first and second are clad internally. at the first end thereof are movably connected, whereby the first and second Interior linings are designed to move between an open position and a closed position. be, whereby in the closed position the first and second inner linings each be adjacent to two of the four main conductors (2a,b,c,d), - where each inner lining is provided with piercing contact organs (23a,b,cd,) each associated with a main conductor, whereby each piercing contact device is configured to make an electrical connection between a main conductor (2a,b,c,d) on the inside of the inner lining (21, 22) and an associated branch conductor (3a,b,c,d) on an outer side of to create the inner lining, which the outer clamp assembly (50) includes: - a first clamp member (51) and a second clamp member (52), each with a first end and has a second end, where the first and second clamp members are at the first end. are movably connected thereof, whereby the first and second clamp members are arranged to be moved between an open position and a clamp position, where the cable branch device further comprises: - a tensioning device (80), where the tensioning device is designed to the second ends (51b, 52b) of the first and second clamp members (51, 52) to force towards each other so that the first and second clamp members are moved to their clamp positions, with the inner lining (21, 22) in the closed position and with the four branch conductors (3a,b,c,d) each aligned with the respective contact organ (23a,b,cd) on the outside the first and second outer clamp members of the inner jaw joint (51, 52) are designed to the clamping position thereof to be moved by the tensioning device (80) and to apply a force to apply to the branch conductors (3a,b,c,d) and to the contact devices (23a,b,cd) to a electrical connection between each main conductor (2a,b,c,d) and a respective to establish branch conductor (3a,b,c,d) via the contact organ(s). 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, where the first inner jaw (21) and the second inner jaw (22) each connected at the first end with a swivel joint, and where the first and second interior linings are configured to be between the open position and the closed position to be swiveled, and where the first and second clamp members (51, 52) each at the first end thereof are pivotally connected, and where the first and second clamp members are designed to to be swiveled between the open position and the clamping position. 3. Apparatus according to claim 2, where the first inner jaw (21) and the second inner jaw (22) are swivelingly connected to each other by an inner jaw hinge (30), and where the first clamp member (51) is swivelingly connected to one of the first or second interior lining (21, 22) by a first clamp hinge (31), preferably connected to the first inner jaw (21), and where the second clamping jaw (52) is pivotally connected to the other of the first or second interior lining (21, 22) by a second clamping jaw hinge (32), preferably connected to the second inner jaw (22). 4. Apparatus according to one or more of claims 1 - 3, where the tightening device is designed for connecting the second ends (51b, 52b) of the clamp members (51,52) and is arranged to bring the connected second ends (51b, 52b) to each other to force so that the first and second clamp members are moved to their clamp position moved. 5. Device in accordance with one or more of claims 1 - 4, where it inner casing assembly (20) includes one or more positioning elements (24) that are attached to the the inside of the first and / or second inner lining (21, 22) have been fitted, whereby the positioning element(s) (24) is / are designed for positioning the inner jaw assembly relative to the main conductors (2a,b,c,d). 6. Apparatus in accordance with claim 5, where the first and / or second interior linings (21, 22) includes one or more inward-facing positioning elements (24), where the towards Internal protruding positioning elements are designed to engage on a auxiliary conductor (7a,c) which is present in a groove at the periphery between two main conductors (2a,b; 2c,d) and / or where the inward-facing positioning elements (24) are arranged for engagement in a groove at the periphery between two main conductors (2a,b; 2c,d). 7. Device in accordance with one or more of claims 1 - 6, where it inner jaw assembly comprises one or more retaining organs (25a,b,c,d) which are designed for holding each branch conductor, for example by a snap-fit ​​connection, for example where each holding device is mounted in such a way that a held branch conductor in is in close proximity to a respective contact organ. 8. Device in accordance with one or more of claims 1 - 7, where the first and / or second the interior lining includes a viewing opening (26), where when the interior lining assembly is correctly positioned the viewing opening is aligned with the intersection of the two upper main conductors or the two lower main conductors, and / or where the first and / or second interior trim includes one or more alignment check parts (27) that when the inner jaw assembly (20) is correctly positioned along the extend the longitudinal axis of the power cable (1) and be aligned with the intersection of the two upper main conductors or the two lower main conductors. 9. Apparatus in accordance with one or more of claims 1 - 8, where the first inner lining (21) and the second inner jaw (22) at the second end thereof are provided with cooperating locking elements (28), where the cooperating locking elements are designed to clad the first and second interiors (21, 22) in the closed position thereof to lock, preferably with the cooperating locking elements (28) implemented as cooperating ratchet-type locking elements. 10. Device in accordance with one or more of claims 1 - 9, where the contact organs (23a,b,c,d) are movably incorporated into the first jaw and into the second inner jaw, where the contact organs are configured to operate between a starting position and a connection position to be moved relative to the inner jawlid, whereby in the connection position the contact device has pierced the insulation of a respective main conductor such that a electrical connection between the contact element and the respective main conductor until is established. 11. Apparatus according to one or more of claims 1-10, where the tensioning device (80) is designed as a screw fastening assembly, where the The screw fastening assembly is designed to connect the second ends (51b, 52b) of the to connect clamp members (51, 52) to each other, and where the screw fastening assembly can be tightened, for example by a user who makes use of a power tool, to the second ends of the first and second clamp members to to force each other, whereby, preferably, the screw fastening assembly is a drive part (80a) has been equipped with a predetermined breaking torque to break when the predetermined breaking torque has been reached. 12. Apparatus pursuant to one or more of claims 1 - 11, where the first and second clamp members (51, 52) on the inside thereof one or more ribs (53) which are configured to connect to the branch conductors (3a,b,c,d), preferably where the first and second clamp members each contain two parallel ribs (53) which are in a direction perpendicular on the longitudinal direction of the power cable (1) and the branch conductors (3a,b,c,d) extend. 13. Apparatus within the meaning of claim 12, where the first ends of the first and second clamp members (51, 52) are pivotally connected, with the ribs (53) shaped in such a way that they exert a force on the respective two tap conductors approximately simultaneously. 14. Apparatus pursuant to one or more of claims 1 - 13, where the first and second lining the interior and / or the first and second clamp members with one or more veneerable tabs (54) include, where the tabs are positioned in such a way that the exposed ends of the branch conductors (3a,b,c) be covered, preferably, where the tabs each comprise an opening through which a part of a measuring device, for example a voltmeter, for example a multimeter, can be plugged in to make contact with the exposed end of the branch conductor. 15. A method for establishing an electrical connection between a four main conductors power cable (1) and four branch conductors cable (3), using is made of a cable tap device in accordance with one or more of claims 1 - 14, for example, where the method includes the steps of: - installing the cable branching device (10) with the inner jaw assembly (20) to the conductors of the power cable (1) with the external clamp assembly (50) in the open position, - positioning the cable tap device to the conductors of the power cable (1) and moving the first and second interior linings from the open position to the closed position position, for example locking the interior trim, so that the interior trim (20, 21) each bordering two of the main conductors, - installing the four branch conductors (3a,b,c,d), each aligned immediately respective contact organ (23a,b,c,d) on the outside of the inner lining, for example holding each branch conductor, - preferably, moving the clamp members to an intermediate position and together connecting the two ends (51b, 52b) of the first and second clamp members (51, 52) of the outer clamp assembly by means of the tensioning device (80), - forcing the second ends of the first and second clamp members towards each other using the tensioning device (80), so that the first and second clamping joints to the are moved to the clamping position thereof, whereby an electrical connection is established between each of the four main conductors (2a,b,c,d) and the respective branch conductors (3a,b,c,d) are established brought via the contact body(ies). 16. Method according to conclusion 15, whereby the first end of the first and second interior lining (21, 22) and the first end of the first and second clamp members (51, 52) be pivotally connected, where the method comprises the steps of: - swivel the first and second interior panels (21, 22) from the open position to the closed position, - swiveling the first and second clamp members (51, 52) from the open position to the clamping position. 17. Method according to conclusions 15-16, whereby the method further one or more of includes the following steps: - positioning the inner jaw assembly relative to the four main guides (2a,b,c,d) using one or more positioning elements (24) that to the inside of the first and / or second interior linings have been installed, - remove some of the removable tabs (80), - holding the four branch conductors (3a,b,c,d) in the holding devices (25a,b,c,d) of the inner jaw assembly, for example snap-fitting the four branch guides into the retaining organs, - visually check through the viewing opening (27) and / or alignment check members (28) whether the inner casing assembly is correctly positioned relative to the main conductors, - locking the first and second interior panels relative to each other using the cooperating locking elements (28), - moving the first and second lock members from an open position to a intermediate position, in which the tensioning device (80) is made in the intermediate position to the second to connect the ends of the first and second clamp members (51,52), whereby the The first and second clamp members are moved from the intermediate position to the clamp position by the tensioning device (80) that the second ends of the first and second clamping members to forces each other.

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