Cover and locking member for an electrical device

Abstract

A locking member is provided that is particularly adapted to lock a cover to an electrical connector, wherein the electrical connector connects an electrical transmission conductor with a power distribution conductor. The locking member includes a tip portion, a grip portion, a retention portion, and a head portion, wherein the tip portion has a cross-sectional area that is less than the cross-sectional area of the grip portion, and wherein the head portion is the widest portion of the locking member. The present disclosure also relates to an insulating cover assembly that includes an insulating cover and a locking member contemplated by the present disclosure.

Description

[0001] Cross-references to related applications

[0002] This disclosure is based on and claims priority to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 966,880, filed January 28, 2020, entitled “Cover and Locking Member for Electrical Devices,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] This disclosure relates to insulating covers for high-voltage electrical equipment, and to locking members for securing such covers to high-voltage electrical equipment. Background Technology

[0004] Power distribution systems, especially high-voltage systems, typically require a main conductor and tap conductors. The tap conductors can draw current from the main conductor or feed current back to it. This operation requires an electrical connector to connect the main conductor to the tap conductor. Due to the high voltage and associated safety concerns, it is desirable for such connectors to be covered with an insulating cover. It is also desirable to have a method for locking the cover so that it remains on the connector even during certain severe weather conditions. Therefore, a locking mechanism is needed that is easy to use and does not require the operator to get too close to the insulating cover to operate it. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure provides embodiments of a locking member for locking an insulating cover to a high-voltage electrical connector, and for use in insulating covers including such a locking member. In one exemplary embodiment, the locking member includes a large-pitch thread that allows cover material to fall between the threads. The helical thread gradually transitions into a vertical wall that acts as a stop or barrier. This prevents the cover / housing from accidentally opening and closing without significant force. In another exemplary embodiment, the locking member includes a shaft having an end portion, a gripping portion, and a retaining portion. The end portion has a smaller cross-sectional area than the gripping portion. The locking member also includes a head located at the end of the shaft. The head is used to rotate the shaft.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, the locking member includes a shaft and a head. The shaft has a first outer diameter and includes an end portion, a gripping portion, and a retaining portion. The end portion has at least a portion forming a second outer diameter on the shaft, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter of the shaft. The gripping portion is adjacent to the end portion and has a first end, a second end, and a helical flange that is wound around the shaft and extends from the first end to the second end. The helical flange may be a continuous helical structure or a plurality of helical structures connected in series on the shaft. The outer diameter of the helical flange may gradually increase along the length of the gripping portion of the shaft. For example, the first end of the gripping portion may have the smallest outer diameter, and the second end of the gripping portion may have the largest diameter. The retaining portion is adjacent to the gripping portion. The retaining portion has a first end and a second end starting from the outer surface of the second end of the gripping portion. The first and second ends of the retaining portion are configured to contact the cover when the cover is covering the high-voltage electrical connector. Preferably, the portion of the shaft within the retaining portion has a smooth outer surface. The head of the locking member is positioned at the end of the shaft adjacent to the retaining portion. The head has a tool mounting member for rotating the shaft. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool mounting member is an annular member or an eyelet.

[0007] This disclosure also provides exemplary embodiments of a cover system for a high-voltage electrical connector. In one exemplary embodiment, the cover system includes an insulating cover and a locking member. The locking member includes an end portion associated with a shaft, a gripping portion, and a retaining portion. The end portion has a smaller cross-sectional area than the gripping portion. The locking member also includes a head located at the end of the shaft. The head is used to rotate the shaft.

[0008] In another exemplary embodiment, the cover system includes an insulating cover and a locking member. The insulating cover has a first cover portion and a second cover portion, wherein the cover portions are movable between an open position and a closed position. The first cover portion has a first locking hole, and the second cover portion has a second locking hole, wherein the second locking hole aligns with the first locking hole when the cover is in the closed position. The locking member includes a shaft and a head. The shaft has a first outer diameter and includes an end portion, a gripping portion, and a retaining portion. The end portion has at least a portion forming a second outer diameter on the shaft, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter of the shaft. The gripping portion is adjacent to the end portion and has a first end, a second end, and a helical flange that is wound around the shaft and extends from the first end to the second end of the shaft. The helical flange may be a continuous helical structure or a plurality of helical structures connected in series on the shaft. The outer diameter of the helical flange may gradually increase along the length of the gripping portion of the shaft. For example, the first end of the gripping portion may have the smallest outer diameter, and the second end of the gripping portion may have the largest diameter. The retaining portion is adjacent to the gripping portion. The retaining portion has a first end and a second end, both starting from the outer surface of the second end of the gripping portion. The first and second ends of the retaining portion are configured to contact the cover when it is covering the high-voltage connector. Preferably, the portion of the shaft within the retaining portion has a smooth outer surface. The head of the locking member is positioned at the end of the shaft adjacent to the retaining portion. The head has a tool mounting member for rotating the shaft. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool mounting member is an annular member or an eyelet.

[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, the cover system includes an insulating cover and a locking member. The insulating cover has a first cover portion connected to a second cover portion via a hinge. The cover portion is movable about the hinge portion (e.g., a movable hinge portion) between an open position and a closed position. The first cover portion has a first locking hole, and the second cover portion has a second locking hole, wherein the second locking hole aligns with the first locking hole when the cover is in the closed position. The locking member interacts with the first and second cover portions to releasably lock the first cover portion to the second cover portion when the cover is in the closed position. The locking member includes a shaft and a head. The shaft has a first outer diameter and includes an end portion, a gripping portion, and a retaining portion. The end portion has at least a portion forming a second outer diameter on the shaft, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter of the shaft. The gripping portion is adjacent to the end portion and has a first end, a second end, and a helical flange that is wound around the shaft and extends from the first end to the second end of the shaft. The helical flange may be a continuous helical structure or a plurality of helical structures connected in series on the shaft. The outer diameter of the helical flange can gradually increase along the length of the gripping portion of the shaft. For example, the first end of the gripping portion can have the smallest outer diameter, and the second end of the gripping portion can have the largest diameter. A retaining portion is adjacent to the gripping portion. The retaining portion has a first end and a second end starting from the outer surface of the second end of the gripping portion. The first and second ends of the retaining portion are configured to contact the cover when the cover is covering the high-voltage electrical connector. Preferably, the portion of the shaft within the retaining portion has a smooth outer surface. The head of the locking member is positioned at the end of the shaft adjacent to the retaining portion. The head has a tool mounting member for rotating the shaft. In an exemplary embodiment, the tool mounting member is an annular member or an eyelet. Attached Figure Description

[0010] The accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures shown herein can be employed without departing from the principles described herein, wherein:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a side perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the insulating cover assembly according to the present disclosure in use, showing the insulating cover covering the high-voltage electrical equipment, the transmission conductor and the distribution conductor passing through the insulating cover, and the locking member according to the present disclosure connected to the insulating cover by an extendable tool.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 A side perspective view of the insulating cover assembly, wherein the locking member is separated from the insulating cover and the insulating cover is in the closed position;

[0013] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A side perspective view of the insulating cover assembly, wherein the locking member is positioned within a locking hole in the insulating cover and locks the insulating cover in the closed position;

[0014] Figure 4A yes Figure 1 The insulating cover assembly has no locking mechanism and the cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4 shows the insulating cover in the open position and positioned for installation on electrical equipment and conductors;

[0015] Figure 4B yes Figure 1 The insulating cover assembly has no locking mechanism and is shown in a cross-sectional view taken along line 4-4, showing the electrical conductors and electrical equipment inside the insulating cover and the insulating cover in the closed position;

[0016] Figure 5 This is a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of the locking component according to the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 First plan view of the locking component;

[0018] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 First side view of the locking component;

[0019] Figure 8 yes Figure 5 Second plan view of the locking component;

[0020] Figure 9 yes Figure 5 The second side view of the locking component;

[0021] Figure 10 yes Figure 5 A front view of the head end of the locking component;

[0022] Figure 11 yes Figure 5 The front view of the end of the locking component;

[0023] Figure 12A yes Figure 4B The cross-sectional view shows the end of the locking member inserted into the locking hole in the insulating cover;

[0024] Figure 12B yes Figure 12A The cross-sectional view shows the gripping part of the locking member inserted into the locking hole in the insulating cover, causing the insulating cover to move along the gripping part in a first direction;

[0025] Figure 12C yes Figure 12B The cross-sectional view shows the insulating cover inside the retaining part of the locking member;

[0026] Figure 13 It is a section taken along line 13-13. Figure 6A cross-sectional view of the locking member, showing a plane perpendicular to and extending through the locking member;

[0027] Figure 14 It is a section taken along line 14-14. Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of the locking member shows a plane perpendicular to and extending through the second end of the locking member;

[0028] Figure 15 This is a side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the insulating cover assembly according to the present disclosure, showing the insulating cover and... Figure 23 Another exemplary embodiment of the locking member, wherein the insulating cover is in the open position;

[0029] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 Side view of the insulating cover assembly;

[0030] Figure 17 yes Figure 15 An end view of the insulating cover assembly, with the insulating cover in the open position;

[0031] Figure 18 yes Figure 15 An end view of the insulating cover assembly, wherein the insulating cover is in the closed position and a locking member locks the insulating cover in the closed position;

[0032] Figure 19 This is a side perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the insulating cover assembly according to the present disclosure, showing another exemplary embodiment of the insulating cover and a plurality of locking members, wherein the insulating cover is in the closed position;

[0033] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 A side perspective view of the insulating cover assembly, showing the insulating cover in the open position;

[0034] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 An end view of the insulating cover assembly, with the insulating cover in the open position;

[0035] Figure 22 yes Figure 19 An end view of the insulating cover assembly, wherein the insulating cover is in the closed position and a locking member locks the insulating cover in the closed position;

[0036] Figure 23 This is a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of the locking component according to this disclosure;

[0037] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A plan view of the locking component;

[0038] Figure 25yes Figure 23 Side view of the locking component;

[0039] Figure 26 yes Figure 24 The locking component from Figure 24 An enlarged view of the portion cut off at the end 202;

[0040] Figure 27 It is formed Figure 23 A perspective view of a segment of the spiral flange of the gripping part of the locking member, showing a segment with a narrow edge and a wide edge;

[0041] Figure 28 yes Figure 27 A side view of two segments that are joined at the narrow edges of the two segments to form a semi-spiral segment with wide edges as the leading and trailing edges;

[0042] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 A top perspective view of two semi-spiral segments that connect at their wide edges and wrap around... Figure 23 The axis of the locking component forms a single helical structure;

[0043] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 A side view of the single helical structure, showing the pitch from the leading edge of the first half-helical segment to the trailing edge of the second half-helical segment;

[0044] Figure 31 yes Figure 29 A side view of the single helical structure, showing the offset orientation at the junction between the trailing edge of the first half-helical segment and the leading edge of the second half-helical segment;

[0045] Figure 32 It is connected to form a continuous spiral structure Figure 29 A first side view of a plurality of single helical structures, showing the offset orientation at the junction between the trailing edge of the first half-helical segment and the leading edge of the second half-helical segment in each of the plurality of single helical structures.

[0046] Figure 33 yes Figure 32 A second side view of the continuous spiral structure, showing Figure 27 The segment is connected at its narrow edge;

[0047] Figure 34 yes Figure 32 A side view of a continuous spiral structure, showing multiple single spiral structures trimmed to form an asymmetrical spiral flange on the axis;

[0048] Figure 35 yes Figure 34A side view of a continuous spiral structure, showing multiple trimmed single spiral structures to display an asymmetrical spiral flange on the axis; and

[0049] Figure 36 yes Figure 35 An enlarged perspective view of a portion of a continuous spiral structure, showing the chamfer or tip at the end of the spiral structure. Detailed Implementation

[0050] This disclosure provides embodiments of a locking member that can be used to lock a removable insulating cover to a high-voltage electrical connector, and can also be used in a cover assembly of high-voltage electrical equipment including the locking member. This disclosure also provides embodiments of an insulating cover assembly including an insulating cover and a locking member. In this disclosure, the high-voltage electrical equipment includes an electrical connector that electrically connects two electrical conductors (such as a main conductor and a tap conductor) together or electrically connects a primary distribution conductor to a secondary distribution conductor. High-voltage electrical equipment is typically capable of operating within a voltage range of about 600 volts to about 110 kV. Examples of common voltages that such electrical equipment can operate at include at least 66 kV and at least 110 kV. Under normal operating conditions, such electrical equipment can operate within a current range of about 100 amperes to about 1500 amperes. Examples of common currents that such electrical equipment can operate at include at least 1000 amperes and at least 1500 amperes. For ease of description, high-voltage electrical equipment may also be referred to herein as the plural form of "equipment" or "connector" and the singular form of "equipment" or "connector". The term "electric conductor" may also be referred to herein as the plural form "conductor" and the singular form "conductor". The term "removable insulating cover" may also be referred to herein as the plural form "cover" and the singular form "cover". The term "insulating cover assembly" may also be referred to herein as the plural form "cover assembly" and the singular form "cover assembly".

[0051] Referring now to the accompanying drawings, in which the same reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to denote the same elements, exemplary embodiments of the cover assembly and locking member according to this disclosure are shown. Figures 1 to 3 An exemplary embodiment of the cover assembly 10 according to the present invention is shown. The cover assembly 10 includes a cover 20 and a locking member 50. See also Figure 4A and Figure 4B The locking member 50 is used to lock the cover 20 to the electrical equipment 500 to cover the electrical equipment 500 and the portions of one or more conductors 510 and 512 connected to the electrical equipment 500. This can be done by hand or using an extendable tool 520 (such as...). Figure 1 The hot-stick shown secures the locking member 50 to the cover 20.

[0052] Reference Figures 2 to 4BThe cover 20 includes a first cover body 22 and a second cover body 24. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cover body 22 has an end 22a connected to a hinge portion 26 and a free end 22b. At least a portion of the free end 22b of the first cover body 22 can be angled to form an inlet portion that, when the cover 20 is installed, makes it easier for the cover 20 to pass over the electrical equipment 500 and conductors 510 and 512. Similarly, the second cover body 24 has an end 24a connected to the hinge portion 26 and a free end 24b. At least a portion of the free end 24b of the second cover body 24 can be angled to form an inlet portion that, when the cover 20 is installed, also makes it easier for the cover 20 to pass over the electrical equipment 500 and conductors 510 and 512. The hinge portion 26 allows the first cover body 22 and the second cover body 24 to... Figure 4A The opening position shown and Figure 4B It can move between the closed positions shown. The hinge 26 can be, for example, a movable hinge.

[0053] exist Figure 4A and Figure 4B In the exemplary embodiment shown, the first cover 22 includes one or more locking holes 28 positioned near the free end 22b of the first cover 22. As detailed below, these locking holes 28 are used to lock the first cover 22 of the cover 20 to the second cover 24. As shown, each of the one or more locking holes 28 may include a raised surface or protrusion 30 extending substantially around the locking hole 28 on the first cover 22. As detailed below, when the locking member 50 locks the first cover 22 to the second cover 24, the raised surface 30 acts as a Belleville washer to apply pressure to the first cover 22. Figure 4A and Figure 4B As shown, the first cover 22 also includes a cavity 32 configured and sized to accommodate the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512. Similarly, the second cover 24 includes one or more locking holes 34 located near the free end 24b of the second cover 24. These locking holes 34 are used when locking the first cover 22 of the cover 20 to the second cover 24, as described below. As shown, each of the one or more locking holes 34 may include a raised surface or protrusion 36 extending substantially around the locking hole 34 on the second cover 24. When the locking member 50 locks the first cover 22 to the second cover 24, the raised surface 36 acts as a Bainckia gasket to apply pressure to the second cover 24. Figure 4A and Figure 4BAs shown, the second cover 24 also includes a cavity 38 configured and sized to accommodate the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512. It should be noted that when the first cover 22 is locked to the second cover 24, the cavity 32 in the first cover 22 and the cavity 38 in the second cover 24 can form a larger combined cavity.

[0054] Now refer to Figures 5 to 11 An exemplary embodiment of the locking member 50 according to this disclosure is shown. The locking member 50 is configured and sized to lock a first cover 22 of the cover 20 to a second cover 24 during installation. See also Figure 7 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the locking member 50 includes an end portion 52, a gripping portion 54, a retaining portion 56, and a head 58. An axial portion or shaft 60 extends through the end portion 52, the gripping portion 54, and the retaining portion 56. The shaft 60 has, as shown in the exemplary embodiment... Figure 9 The vertical axis “A” shown and as Figure 8 The outer diameter “D1” shown indicates that the shaft 60 is configured to fit into the cover 20 as follows: Figure 4A , Figure 4B and Figure 12A The locking holes 28 and 34 are shown. The diameter "D1" can range, for example, from about 0.25 inches to about 0.500 inches. Figure 7 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the end portion 52 includes a portion of the shaft 60 that begins at the end portion 60a of the shaft 60 and ends at the beginning of the gripping portion 54. See also Figure 12A The length "L1" of the formed end portion 52 of the shaft 60 is configured and sized to extend through at least one of the locking holes 28 or 34 in the cover 20 before the gripping portion 54 engages with the locking holes 28 and / or 34. As a non-limiting example, the length "L1" of the formed end portion 52 of the shaft 60 may be in the range of about 1 / 16 inch to about 2 inches.

[0055] Continue to refer to Figures 5 to 11 The gripping portion 54 of the locking member 50 includes a helical flange 62 (e.g., a continuous helix) wound around a portion of the shaft 60. The gripping portion 54 has a first end 64 and a second end 66. See also... Figure 7 The first end 64 of the gripping portion 54 is positioned on the shaft 60 at one end of the end portion 52, and the second end 66 is positioned on the shaft 60 at a predetermined distance "L2" from the first end 64. The predetermined distance "L2" of the gripping portion 54 depends on several factors, including the thickness "T1" of the combination of the first cover 22 and the second cover 24 in the region of the locking holes 28 and 34 (see [reference]). Figure 4B ), and the pitch "P1" of each single helical structure of the helical flange 62 (see Figure 6As a non-limiting example, the distance "L2" can be in the range of approximately 0.25 inches to approximately 5 inches. The gripping part 54 has, as... Figure 8 The outer diameter "D2" shown is larger than the diameter "D1" of the shaft 60, such that... Figure 12B As shown, the spiral flange 62 can be screwed into the locking holes 28 and 34 in the cover 20. The diameter "D2" includes the diameter "D1" of the shaft 60 plus the width of the spiral flange 62 attached to the shaft 60, and can be, for example, in the range of about 0.5 inches to about 2 inches.

[0056] Preferably, such as Figure 5 As shown, the helical flange 62 rotates at least one full turn around the outer surface of the shaft 60. The helical flange 62 extends continuously along the shaft 60 from the first end 64 to the second end 66, such that the intersection of any plane perpendicular to the shaft 60 within the gripping portion 54 with the helical flange 62 extends less than 30 degrees along the outer surface of the shaft 60. However, at the second end 66 of the gripping portion 54, the intersection of the plane perpendicular to the shaft 60 with the helical flange 62 extends more than 30 degrees along the outer surface of the shaft 60. For example, Figure 13 A plane 68 perpendicular to axis 60 is shown, which intersects the helical flange 62 at any point along the gripping portion 54 except at the second end 66. As shown, the intersection of plane 68 and helical flange 62 extends less than 30 degrees along the outer surface of axis 60. See also Figure 13 Reference numeral 70 is used to indicate the intersection between the plane 68 and the helical flange 62 along the outer surface of the axis 60. As another example, Figure 14 A plane 72 perpendicular to axis 60 is shown, intersecting the second end 66 of gripping portion 54. As shown, the intersection of plane 72 and the second end 66 of gripping portion 54 extends at an angle greater than 30 degrees along the outer surface of axis 60. See also Figure 14 Reference numeral 74 is used to indicate the intersection between the plane 72 and the second end 66 of the gripping portion 54 along the outer surface of the axis 60. (See attached figure.) Figure 14 As shown, the second end 66 and the intersecting part 74 extend together.

[0057] It should be noted that, see Figure 4B The distance or pitch "P1" between the leading edge and the trailing edge of a single helix forming a portion of a helical flange 62 along axis 60 (see [reference]). Figure 6The distance "P1" is preferably greater than the thickness "T2" of the first cover 22 in the region of the locking hole 28. When the cover 20 is locked, a distance "P1" greater than the thickness "T2" allows the first cover 22 in the region of the locking hole 28 to move along the helical flange 62. As a non-limiting example, the distance "P1" is between about 200% and about 400% of the thickness "T2" of the first cover 22 in the region of the locking hole 28. As another non-limiting example, the distance "P1" can be between about 0.5 inches and about 1 inch.

[0058] The second end 66 of the gripping member 54 has an outer surface 66a, most of which is along the longitudinal axis “A” substantially perpendicular to the shaft 60 (see Figure 1). Figure 9 The second end 66 extends in the direction of the longitudinal axis "A" of the shaft 60. In other words, most of the outer surface 66a of the second end 66 extends in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis "A" of the shaft 60, so that the outer surface 66a is substantially flat. By having a substantially flat outer surface 66a, the second end 66 is prevented from re-engaging with the cover 20 once the cover is in the retaining part 56. Preventing the second end 66 from re-engaging with the cover 20 keeps the cover 20 in the retaining part 56, thereby locking the cover 20 in the closed position. In order to remove the locking member 50 from the cover 20 and unlock the cover, the locking member 50 or the cover 20 must be broken or deformed in such a way that the locking member 50 can be removed from the locking holes 28 and / or 34 in the cover 20. As a result, the locking member 50 makes the cover 20 difficult to tamper with and allows the cover to resist certain severe weather conditions (e.g., strong winds) because once the cover 20 is locked in place in the retaining part 56 by the locking member 50, there is no easy way to remove the cover 20 from the electrical device 500. When the cover 20 is locked, the locking member 50 also restricts and may prevent overtightening. More specifically, when the cover 20 is within the retaining portion 56 of the locking member 50, the locking member rotates freely so that the cover 20 no longer moves along the gripping member 54.

[0059] As described above, the first end 64 of the gripping portion 54 is configured to engage with the cover 20 and guide the cover 20 in the first longitudinal direction (in Figure 12A and Figure 12B The cover 20 moves along the longitudinal axis "A" of axis 60 (marked by arrow "X"). The movement of the cover 20 in the first longitudinal direction begins at the first end 64 of the gripping part 54, passes through the second end 66, and continues until the cover 20 enters the holding part 56.

[0060] Reference Figure 7 The retaining portion 56 includes a portion of shaft 60 extending from the second end 66 of the gripping portion 54 of the locking member 50 to the head member 76 of the head 58. The shaft 60 is formed such that the length "L3" of the retaining portion 56 is configured and sized to accommodate the portion of the first cover 22 surrounding the locking hole 28 and the portion of the second cover 24 surrounding the locking hole 34. More specifically, see... Figure 4BThe length "L3" of the retaining portion 56 is designed to be approximately the same as the thickness "T1" of the combination of the first cover 22 and the second cover 24 in the region of the locking holes 28 and 34. By making the length "L3" approximately the same as the thickness "T1", the cover 20 is securely held within the retaining portion 56 of the locking member 50 when it is installed. However, the length "L3" of the retaining portion 56 can also be slightly smaller than the thickness "T1" (e.g., about 15 percent smaller), such that when the cover 20 is within the retaining portion 56, pressure is applied to the cover 20 by the second end 66 of the gripping portion 54 and the head member 76 of the head 58, causing the cover 20 to deform slightly within the retaining portion 56. As a non-limiting example, the length "L3" of the shaft 60 forming the retaining portion 56 can be in the range of about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches. The second end 66 of the gripping portion 54 has an outer surface 66a that forms one end of the retaining portion 56 and is configured to contact the cover 20 when the cover 20 is in the retaining portion 56. The outer surface 66a is used to prevent or stop the cover 20 from moving along the axis 60 in the second longitudinal direction (in Figure 12C The direction is indicated by the arrow "Y". In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0061] Continue to refer to Figures 5 to 11 The head 58 of the locking member 50 includes a head member 76 at the end of the shaft 60. The head member 76 may be integrally or integrally formed to the end of the shaft 60, or the head member 76 may be attached to the shaft 60 using, for example, a welded connection or adhesive. The head member 76 has an outer diameter "D3" greater than or equal to a diameter "D2". The outer diameter "D3" of the head member 76 may be in the range of, for example, about 3 / 4 inch to about 2 inches. The head member 76 has an outer surface 76a that forms a second end of the retaining portion 56 and is configured to contact the cover 20 when the cover is within the retaining portion 56. The outer surface 76a of the head member 76 serves to prevent or stop movement of the cover 20 along the shaft 60 in a first longitudinal direction while locking the cover 20.

[0062] See Figure 8 The head member 76 of the head 58 has a tool mounting member 78 extending in a direction away from the retaining portion 56. The tool mounting member 78 may be integrally or integrally formed in the head member 76, or fixed to the head member 76 using welding or adhesive. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the tool mounting member 78 is an annular member with a central opening 80, extending to extend the grippers or fingers 522 of the tool 520 (see...). Figure 1The locking member 50 can engage with the tool mounting member 78 through the central opening. Then, when the cover assembly 10 is installed, the extendable tool 520 can be used to rotate the locking member 50. The opening 80 in the tool mounting member 78 can be circular, elliptical, quadrilateral, or any other shape that allows the extendable tool 520 to engage with the tool mounting member 78. An optional tool adapter 82 extending from the tool mounting member 78 allows the locking member 50 to be installed using a standard socket or hand tool. The tool adapter 82 can be in the form of a hexagonal head as shown, or it can be any form that allows tools or gloved hands to assist in the installation of the locking member 50.

[0063] The description will use one or more extendable tools 520 for installation. Figure 1 To the cover assembly 10 in Figure 4. For the cover assembly 10 to be installed, the first cover body 22 and the second cover body 24 of the cover 20 are initially set in the open position (see Figure 4). Figure 4A Then, the opened cover 20 is attached to the extendable extension tool 520, and the cover 20 is lifted onto the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 until the device 500 and conductors are located within the corresponding cavities 32 and 38 of the first cover body 22 and the second cover body 24 (e.g., Figure 4B As shown). Figure 12A As shown, the gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is attached to the tool mounting member 78 of the locking member 50, and the end portion 52 of the locking member is inserted into the locking hole 28 in the first cover 22, and then into the locking hole 34 in the second cover 24. Then, as... Figure 12B As shown, the locking member 50 is rotated using an extendable tool 520, causing the gripping portion 54 of the locking member 50 to sequentially engage with the locking holes 28 and 34, thereby causing the cover 20 to slide along the gripping portion 54. Continued rotation of the locking member 50 causes the cover 20 to slide along the gripping portion 54 until the cover is located within the retaining portion 56 of the locking member 50. More specifically, the cover 20 slides along the gripping portion 54 until the portion of the first cover body 22 surrounding the locking hole 28 and the portion of the second cover body 24 surrounding the locking hole 34 are located within the retaining portion 56 of the locking member 50. When the cover 20 is located within the retaining portion 56 of the locking member 50, the first cover body 22 locks to the second cover body 24, such that a portion of the electrical device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 are enclosed within the cover 20.

[0064] Now go to Figures 15 to 22 This illustrates additional exemplary embodiments of the cover assembly according to the present disclosure. Figures 15 to 18 In an exemplary embodiment, the cover assembly 100 includes a cover 110 and a locking member 200. The locking member 200 is used to lock the cover 100 to an electrical device 500 located near the hinge portion of the cover (see [link to example]). Figure 4BCover 100 covers electrical equipment 500 and covers the portions of one or more conductors 510 and 512 that are connected to electrical equipment 500. It can be used by hand or with an extendable tool 520 (such as...). Figure 1 The live operating lever shown secures the locking member 200 to the cover 100. Figures 19 to 22 In an exemplary embodiment, the cover assembly 150 includes a cover 160, a first locking member 200, and a second locking member 50. The first locking member 200 is used to lock a portion of the cover 160 near its hinge portion 166 to a position such that... Figure 4B On the electrical device 500 shown, a second locking member 50 is used to lock another portion of the cover 160 near its free end to the electrical device 500. Locking members 200 and 50 can be secured to the cover 160 by hand or using an extendable tool 520. It should be noted that the locking member 200 in this exemplary embodiment is substantially similar to the locking member 50 described above, except that the length "L1" of the end portion 52 in the locking member is less than the length "L1" of the end portion 52 of the aforementioned locking member 50. Therefore, a detailed description of the locking member 50 will not be repeated.

[0065] Reference Figures 15 to 18 The cover assembly 100 includes a cover 110 and a locking member 200. The cover 110 includes a first cover body 112 and a second cover body 114. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cover body 112 has an end 112a connected to a hinge portion 116 and a free end 112b. At least a portion of the free end 112b of the first cover body 112 can be angled to form an inlet portion that, when the cover 110 is installed, makes it easier for the cover 110 to pass over the electrical equipment 500 and conductors 510 and 512. Similarly, the second cover body 114 has an end 114a connected to the hinge portion 116 and a free end 114b. At least a portion of the free end 114b of the second cover body 114 can be angled to form an inlet portion that, when the cover 110 is installed, also makes it easier for the cover 110 to pass over the electrical equipment 500 and conductors 510 and 512. The hinge 116 allows the first cover 112 and the second cover 114 to... Figure 17 The opening position shown and Figure 18 It moves between the closed positions shown. The hinge 116 can be, for example, a movable hinge.

[0066] The first cover 112 includes one or more locking holes 118, with a locking member 200 positioned near the end 112a of the hinge portion 116. The one or more locking holes 118 are used to lock the first cover 112 to the second cover 114. The first cover 112 also includes, for example... Figure 17 The cavity 120 shown is configured and sized to accommodate and Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 are similarly shown. Similarly, the second cover 114 includes one or more locking holes 122 located near the end 114a of the hinge portion 116. These locking holes 122 are used when locking the first cover 112 to the second cover 114. The second cover 114 also includes a cavity 124 configured and sized to accommodate the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512. It should be noted that when the first cover 112 is locked to the second cover 114, the cavity 120 in the first cover 112 and the cavity 124 in the second cover 114 can form a larger combined cavity.

[0067] Reference Figures 19 to 22 The cover assembly 150 includes a cover 160, a first locking member 200, and a second locking member 50. The cover 160 includes a first cover body 162 and a second cover body 164. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cover body 162 has an end 162a connected to a hinge portion 166 and a free end 162b. At least a portion of the free end 162b of the first cover body 162 can be angled to form an inlet portion that, when the cover 160 is installed, makes it easier for the cover 160 to pass over the electrical equipment 500 and conductors 510 and 512. Similarly, the second cover body 164 has an end 164a connected to the hinge portion 166 and a free end 164b. At least a portion of the free end 164b of the second cover body 164 can be angled to form an inlet portion that, when the cover 160 is installed, also makes it easier for the cover 160 to pass over the electrical equipment 500 and conductors 510 and 512. The hinge 166 allows the first cover 162 and the second cover 164 to... Figure 21 The opening position shown and Figure 22 It moves between the closed positions shown. The hinge 166 can be, for example, a movable hinge.

[0068] The first cover 162 includes one or more locking holes 168. In this embodiment, the first locking hole 168 is located near the end 162a of the hinge portion 166, and the second locking hole 168 is located near the free end 162b. The one or more locking holes 168 are used to lock the first cover 162 of the cover 160 to the second cover 164. The first cover 162 also includes a cavity 170 configured and sized to accommodate... Figure 4A and Figure 4BThe device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 are similarly shown. Similarly, the second cover 164 includes one or more locking holes 172 located near the end 164a of the hinge 166, and a second locking hole 172 located near the free end 164b. These one or more locking holes 172 are used to lock the first cover 162 of the cover 160 to the second cover 164. The second cover 164 also includes a cavity 174 configured and sized to accommodate the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512. It should be noted that when the first cover 162 is locked to the second cover 164, the cavity 170 in the first cover 162 and the cavity 174 in the second cover 164 can form a larger combined cavity.

[0069] Now go to Figures 23 to 35 This illustrates another exemplary embodiment of a locking member according to the present disclosure. In this exemplary embodiment, the locking member 200 is configured and sized to hold the first cover body of cover 110 or 160 (e.g., see [reference]) during installation. Figure 15 and Figure 19 The cover 112 or 162 locks to the second cover (e.g., cover 114 or 164). See reference... Figures 15 to 18 The cover assembly 100 and / or shown Figures 19 to 22 The cover assembly 150 is shown to illustrate this embodiment of the locking member 200. However, the locking member 200 and the locking member 50 can be used with all cover assemblies described herein and any other cover assemblies.

[0070] See Figure 24 In the exemplary embodiment shown, the locking member 200 includes an end portion 202, a gripping portion 204, a retaining portion 206, and a head 208. An axial portion or shaft 210 extends through the end portion 202, the gripping portion 204, and the retaining portion 206. The shaft 210 has, as shown in the exemplary embodiment... Figure 25 The vertical axis “A” shown and as Figure 24 The outer diameter “D4” shown indicates that the shaft 210 is configured to fit into… Figure 18 The locking holes 118 and 122 in the cover 110 shown, and as shown Figure 22 The locking holes 168 and 172 are shown in the cover 160. The diameter "D4" can be, for example, in the range of about 0.3 inches to about 0.5 inches. Figure 24In the exemplary embodiment shown, the end portion 202 includes a portion of shaft 210 that begins at end 210a of shaft 210 and ends at the beginning of gripping portion 204. The length "L4" of the shaft 210 forming the end portion 202 is configured and sized to extend through at least one of locking holes 118 or 122 in cover 110, or through at least one of locking holes 168 or 172 in cover 160, before the gripping portion 204 engages with the locking holes. As a non-limiting example, the length "L4" of the shaft 210 forming the end portion 202 can range from about 0.3 inches to about 1 inch. In this exemplary embodiment, end 210a has a portion with a diameter greater than the diameter "D4" of shaft 210. The larger diameter of the end 210a allows the end 210 to be inserted into the locking holes 118 and / or 122 in the cover 110, or into the locking holes 168 and / or 172 in the cover 160, so that the end 210 remains within the corresponding holes 170 and / or 174 during installation.

[0071] Reference Figure 23 , Figure 25 and Figures 27 to 35 ,like Figure 23 As shown, the gripping portion 204 of the locking member 200 includes a helical flange 212 (e.g., a continuous helical structure) wound around a portion of the shaft 210. The length “L5” of the shaft 210 forming the gripping portion 204 extends from a first end 214 to a second end 216 of the gripping portion. In this exemplary embodiment, the helical flange 212 is formed by connecting multiple helical structures in series on the shaft 210 and then trimming the helical structures to form an asymmetrical helical flange 212 on the shaft 210. More specifically, each helical structure is formed by connecting two flange segments 230 together to form a half-helical segment 240, and then connecting two half-helical segments 240 to form a helical structure. Each flange segment 230 is an asymmetrical arcuate member having a first face “B” and a second face “C”. The first face “B” is shaped as a trapezoidal structure, wherein two sidewalls 230a and 230b are parallel. Sidewall 230b is larger than sidewall 230a and is located at the inner wall 232 of flange segment 230, while sidewall 230a is located at the outer wall 234 of flange segment 230. Top wall 230c extends from the larger sidewall 230b to the smaller sidewall 230a at an angle “β” relative to sidewalls 230a and 230b. Angle “β” can be in the range of, for example, 89 degrees to 95 degrees. Bottom wall 230c extends from the larger sidewall 230b to the smaller sidewall 230a at a predetermined angle “σ”. See also Figure 28The predetermined angle “σ” is the angle relative to the imaginary line 230e, which is substantially perpendicular to the sidewalls 230a and 230f. The predetermined angle can range from approximately 15 degrees to approximately 40 degrees. Another way to view face “B” is as a rectangle defined by sidewalls 230a, 230f, top wall 230c, and imaginary line 230e, plus a triangle defined by bottom wall 230d, imaginary line 230e, and sidewall segment 230g. The second face “C” is shaped as a rectangle with sidewalls 230h and 230i, top wall 230j, and bottom wall 230k. Figure 28 As shown, the top wall 230j and bottom wall 230k of surface "C" are not in the same plane as the top wall 230c of surface "B", such that there is a distance "P3" between the top wall 230c of surface "B" and the top wall 230j of surface "C", and a distance "P4" between the top wall 230c of surface "B" and the bottom wall 230k of surface "C". It should be noted that surface "B" can also be referred to herein as the "wide side" of flange segment 230, and surface "C" can also be referred to herein as the "narrow side" of flange segment 230.

[0072] In order to form the semi-helical segment 240, such as Figure 28 The surface "C" of the first flange segment 230x shown is connected to the surface "C" of the second flange segment 230y. This surface "C" forms a continuous connection between the two flange segments 230x and 230y, such that... Figure 29 As shown, the inner walls 232 of the two flange segments 230 form a basic 180-degree arc with a shape similar to the outer wall of the shaft 210. In this configuration, the face "B" of the first flange segment 230x (denoted as S1) is the leading edge of the semi-helical segment 240a, and the face "B" of the second flange segment 230y (denoted as S2) is the trailing edge of the semi-helical segment 240a.

[0073] To form a single helical structure 244, the trailing edge of the second flange segment 230y of the first half-helical segment 240a is connected to the leading edge of the first flange segment 230x (denoted as S3) of the second half-helical segment 240b. For example... Figure 30 As shown, the single helical structure 244 has a distance "P5" (or pitch) from the leading edge of the first flange segment 230x of the first half-helical segment 240a to the trailing edge of the second flange segment 230y (denoted as S4) of the second half-helical segment 240b. Figure 31 As shown, at the junction between the first half-helix segment 240a and the second half-helix segment 240b of the single helix structure 244, the junction surface “B” forms an offset region 246, which allows the offset region 246 to be manufactured by the injection molding process that forms the offset region 246.

[0074] Then, as Figure 32 and Figure 33 As shown, multiple single-helix structures 244 are arranged in series on the shaft 210. To form... Figure 23 The helical flange 212 of the locking member 200 shown is subsequently trimmed to form a series of single helical structures 244 with a series of different diameters. For example, in Figure 35 In the first single helical structure 244a, there is a diameter "D5", which can be determined based on the original diameter of the single helical structure 244a (see...). Figure 34 The diameter of the first single helical structure 244a is adjusted to approximately 30% and approximately 70% of the original diameter of the first single helical structure 244a by the angle “ω” of the cone. The second single helical structure 244b has a diameter “D6”, which can be adjusted according to the original diameter of the single helical structure 244b (see [reference]). Figure 34 The diameter of the second single helix structure 244b is adjusted to approximately 5% and approximately 15% of the original diameter of the conical structure 244b by the angle “ω”. The third single helix structure 244c has a diameter “D7”, which can be adjusted according to the original diameter of the single helix structure 244c (see [reference]). Figure 34 The diameter of the third single helical structure 244c is adjusted to approximately 90% and approximately 100% of its original diameter by the angle “ω” of the cone. As a more specific example, diameter “D5” can be approximately 0.39 inches, diameter “D6” can be approximately 0.70 inches, and diameter “D7” can be approximately 0.75 inches. The result is as follows: Figure 34 and Figure 35 As shown, the helical flange 212 has a series of single helical structures 244, which form a cone shape, as illustrated in the figure. Figure 24 The narrowest part of the cone is closest to the end portion 202 of the locking member 200, and the widest part of the cone is closest to the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200. The angle "ω" of the cone can be in the range of about 10 degrees to about 30 degrees.

[0075] As described above, the first end 214 of the gripping portion 204 is configured to engage with the cover (e.g., cover 110 or 160) and guide the cover 110 or 160 in the first longitudinal direction (in Figure 12A and Figure 12B The movement of the cover (e.g., cover 110 or 160) along the longitudinal axis "A" of axis 210 is indicated by the arrow "X". The movement of the cover in the first longitudinal direction begins at the first end 214 of the gripping portion 204, passes through the second end 216, and continues until the cover 20 enters the retaining portion 206.

[0076] See you again Figures 23 to 26The retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200 includes a portion of the shaft 210 extending from the second end 216 of the gripping portion 204 of the locking member 200 to the head member 218 of the head 208. The shaft 210 forms the retaining portion 206 with a length "L6" configured and sized to accommodate the portion of the first cover 112 or 162 surrounding the corresponding locking hole 118 or 168 and the portion of the second cover 114 or 164 surrounding the corresponding locking hole 122 or 172. For example, in Figures 15 to 18 In the embodiment of the cover assembly 100 shown, see Figure 18 The length "L6" of the retaining part 206 is designed to be approximately the same as the thickness "T3" of the combination of the first cover 112 and the second cover 114 in the region of the locking holes 112 and 118. Similarly, in Figures 19 to 22 In the embodiment of the cover assembly 150 shown, see Figure 22 The length “L6” of the retaining part 206 is designed to be approximately the same as the thickness “T3” of the combination of the first cover 162 and the second cover 164 in the area of ​​the locking holes 168 and 172.

[0077] By making the length "L6" approximately the same as the thickness "T3", when the cover 110 or 160 is installed, the cover 110 or 160 is securely held within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200. However, the length "L6" of the retaining portion 206 can also be slightly less than the thickness "T3" (e.g., about 15 percent smaller), such that when the cover (e.g., cover 110 or 160) is within the retaining portion 206, pressure is applied to the cover 110 or 160 by the second end 216 of the gripping portion 204 and the head member 218 of the head 208, causing the cover to deform slightly within the retaining portion 206. As a non-limiting example, the length "L6" of the shaft 210 forming the retaining portion 206 can be in the range of about 0.1 inches to about 0.5 inches. The second end 216 of the gripping portion 204 has an outer surface 216a that forms one end of the retaining portion 206 and is configured to contact the cover (e.g., cover 110 or 160) when it is in the retaining portion 206. The outer surface 216a serves to prevent or stop the cover 110 or 160 from contacting the cover along the axis 210 in the second longitudinal direction (in...). Figure 12C The direction is indicated by the arrow "Y". In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the second direction is opposite to the first direction.

[0078] Continue to refer to Figures 23 to 26 The head 208 of the locking member 200 includes a head member 218 located at the end of the shaft 210. The head member 218 may be integrally or integrally formed at the end of the shaft 210, or the head member 218 may be attached to the shaft 210 using, for example, a welded connection or adhesive. The head member 218 has an outer diameter "D8" greater than or equal to... Figure 35The diameter “D7” of the final in-line spiral structure 244d shown. The outer diameter “D8” of the head member 218 can range, for example, from about 0.75 inches to about 2 inches. The head member 218 has an outer surface 218a that forms the second end of the retainer 206 and is configured to contact the cover (e.g., cover 110 or 160) when it is within the retainer 206. The outer surface 218a of the head member 218 is used to prevent or stop the cover 110 or 160 from moving along the axis 210 in a first longitudinal direction.

[0079] See Figure 24 The head member 218 of the head 208 has a tool mounting member 220 extending in a direction away from the gripper 206. The tool mounting member 220 may be integrally or integrally formed in the head member 218, or fixed to the head member 218 using welding or adhesive. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the tool mounting member 220 is an annular member (e.g., an eyelet) with a central opening 222, through which the grippers or fingers 522 of the tool 520 can extend (see...). Figure 1 The extendable tool 520 can then engage with the tool mounting member 220 through the central opening 222. When the cover assembly 100 or 150 is installed, the extendable tool 520 can then be used to rotate the locking member 200. The opening 222 in the tool mounting member 220 can have a circular, elliptical, quadrilateral, or any other shape that allows the extendable tool 520 to engage with the tool mounting member 220.

[0080] The description will use one or more extendable tools 520 for installation. Figures 15 to 18 The cover assembly 100. For installation of the cover assembly 100, the first cover body 112 and the second cover body 114 of the cover 110 are initially set in the open position (see...). Figure 15 and Figure 17 It should be noted that, as Figure 17 As shown, when in the open position, the locking hole 118 of the first cover 112 is held within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200, and the end portion 202 of the locking member 200 is held within the locking hole 122 of the second cover 114 via its end 110a. The gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is attached to the tool mounting member 220 of the locking member 200 and lifts the cover assembly 100 onto the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 until the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 are located within the corresponding cavities 120 and 124 of the first cover 112 and the second cover 114. Then, as Figure 1As shown, the gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 rotates, causing the tool mounting member 220 to rotate and lock the member 200, such that the gripping portion 204 of the locking member 200 sequentially engages with the locking hole 122, causing the second cover 114 to slide along the gripping portion 204. Continued rotation of the locking member 200 causes the second cover 114 to slide along the gripping portion 204 until the cover 110 is located within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200. More specifically, the second cover 114 slides along the gripping portion 204 until the portion of the second cover 114 surrounding the locking hole 122 is within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200. When the cover 110 is located within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200, the first cover 112 locks to the second cover 114, such that the electrical device 500 and a portion of the conductors 510 and 512 are enclosed within the cover 110.

[0081] The description will use one or more extendable tools 520 for installation. Figures 19 to 22 The cover assembly 150. For mounting the cover assembly 150, the first cover body 162 and the second cover body 164 of the cover 160 are initially positioned in the open position (see [reference]). Figure 20 and Figure 21 It should be noted that, as Figure 21 As shown, when in the open position, the locking hole 168 of the first cover 162 is held within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200, and the end portion 202 of the locking member 200 is held within the locking hole 172 of the second cover 164 via its end 110a. It should also be noted that when in the open position, as... Figure 21 As shown, the retaining portion 56 of the second locking member 50 (see...) Figure 21 The first cover 162 remains within the locking hole 168 of the free end 162b of the first cover 162. The gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is attached to the tool mounting member 220 of the locking member 200, and the cover assembly 150 is raised onto the device 500 and conductor 510 until the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512 are located within the corresponding cavities 170 and 174 of the first and second covers. Then, as... Figure 1 The gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 shown rotates, causing the tool mounting member 220 to rotate and lock the member 200, such that the gripping portion 204 of the locking member 200 sequentially engages with the locking hole 172, thereby causing the second cover 164 to slide along the gripping portion 204. Continued rotation of the locking member 200 causes the second cover 164 to slide along the gripping portion 204 until the cover assembly 150 is located within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200. More specifically, see... Figure 22The second cover 164 slides along the gripping portion 204 until the portion of the second cover 164 surrounding the locking hole 172 is located within the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200. Then, the gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is attached to the tool mounting member 78 of the second locking member 50. The gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 then rotates, causing the tool mounting member 78 to rotate the locking member 50, such that the gripping portion 54 of the second locking member 50 sequentially engages with the locking hole 172 located at the free end 164b of the second cover 164, thereby causing the free end 164b of the second cover 164 to slide along the gripping portion 204. See also Figure 22 The continued rotation of the second locking member 50 causes the free end 164b of the second cover 164 to slide along the gripping portion 54 until the second cover 164 is located within the holding portion 56 of the locking member 50. When the cover 160 is within the holding portion 206 of the first locking member 200 and the holding portion 56 of the second locking member 50, the first cover 162 is locked to the second cover 164, such that the electrical device 500 and a portion of the conductors 510 and 512 are enclosed within the cover 160.

[0082] To remove the cover assembly 150 from the device 500 and conductors 510 and 512, the gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is attached to the tool mounting member 78 of the second locking member 50. The gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is then rotated counterclockwise, causing the tool mounting member 78 to rotate counterclockwise, which in turn causes the second locking member 50 to rotate counterclockwise, disengaging the end of the gripping portion 54 adjacent to the retaining portion 56 of the second locking member 50 from the locking hole 172 located at the free end 164b of the second cover 164. Continued rotation of the second locking member 50 causes the free end 164b of the second cover 164 to slide in the opposite direction along the gripping portion 54 until the second cover 164 is released from the second locking member 50, thereby allowing the cover to move to the open position. It should be noted that in some cases, the end of the gripping portion 54 may be difficult to disengage from the locking hole 172. To facilitate easy removal of the end of the gripping part 54 from the locking hole 172, the end of the gripping part 54 may include, for example: Figure 36The chamfer or pointed tip 244e shown forms an edge at the end of the gripping portion 54 to cut through the locking hole 172. Similarly, the gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is attached to the tool mounting member 220 of the locking member 200. The gripper 522 of the extendable tool 520 is then rotated counterclockwise, causing the tool mounting member 220 to rotate counterclockwise, which in turn causes the second locking member 200 to rotate counterclockwise, disengaging the end of the gripping portion 204 adjacent to the retaining portion 206 of the locking member 200 from the locking hole 172 located at the end 164a of the second cover 164. Continued rotation of the locking member 200 causes the end 164a of the second cover 164 to slide in the opposite direction along the gripping portion 204 until the second cover 164 is released from the locking member 200, thereby allowing the cover to move to the open position. It should be noted that in some cases, the end of the gripping portion 204 may be difficult to disengage from the locking hole 172. To facilitate easy removal of the end of the gripping part 204 from the locking hole 172, the end of the gripping part 204 may include, for example: Figure 36 The chamfer or tip 244e shown forms an edge at the end of the gripper 204 to cut through the locking hole 172.

[0083] It should be noted that the insulating cover contemplated in this disclosure is made of an electrically insulating material, and preferably of an electrically insulating material having a dielectric rating of at least 69 kV. The dielectric rating depends on many factors, including the thickness of the electrically insulating material. It is also desirable that the electrically insulating material is sufficient to meet or exceed the UL-94V0 flame retardant material standard. Non-limiting examples of electrically insulating materials include, but are not limited to, polymer materials, plastisol, or nylon. The insulating cover contemplated in this disclosure can be manufactured by injection molding, dip molding, or vacuum forming. It should also be noted that the locking member contemplated in this disclosure is made of an electrically insulating material, and preferably of an electrically insulating material having a dielectric rating of at least 69 kV. The dielectric rating depends on many factors, including the thickness of the electrically insulating material. It is also desirable that the electrically insulating material is sufficient to meet or exceed the UL-94V0 flame retardant material standard. Non-limiting examples of electrically insulating materials include, but are not limited to, nylon, glass fiber, plastisol, and PVC. The locking components 50 and 200 contemplated in this disclosure can be manufactured by injection molding, vacuum forming, or machining. Alternatively, the locking components contemplated in this disclosure can be integrally formed or manufactured by connecting separate parts.

[0084] The foregoing embodiments and advantages are merely exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. The description of exemplary embodiments of the invention is intended for illustration and not for limiting the scope of the invention. Various modifications, substitutions, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A locking member for locking a cover over a high-voltage electrical connector, the locking member comprising: A shaft having a first outer diameter, the shaft comprising: The end portion has at least a portion forming a second outer diameter on the shaft, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter of the shaft; A gripping portion adjacent to the end portion, the gripping portion having a first end, a second end, and a helical flange, the helical flange being wound around the axis and extending from the first end to the second end, wherein the helical flange includes a plurality of helical structures connected in series on the axis; and A retaining portion, adjacent to the gripping portion, the retaining portion having a first end and a second end starting at the outer surface of the second end of the gripping portion; and The head, located at the end of the shaft adjacent to the retaining portion, has a tool mounting member for rotating the shaft.

2. The locking member of claim 1, wherein, The outer diameter of the spiral flange gradually increases along the length of the gripping portion, wherein the minimum outer diameter begins at the first end of the gripping portion and the maximum diameter is at the second end of the gripping portion.

3. The locking member of claim 1, wherein, The plurality of spiral structures connected in series on the shaft form a continuous spiral structure.

4. The locking member of claim 1, wherein, The first and second ends of the retaining portion are configured to contact the cover when the cover is covering the high-voltage electrical connector.

5. The locking member of claim 1, wherein, The portion of the shaft within the retaining part has a smooth outer surface.

6. The locking member of claim 1, wherein, The tool mounting component is a ring-shaped component.

7. A cover system for a high-voltage electrical connector, the cover system comprising: An insulating cover having a first cover portion and a second cover portion, the insulating cover being movable between an open position and a closed position, the first cover portion having a first locking hole and the second cover portion having a second locking hole, wherein when the insulating cover is in the closed position, the second locking hole is aligned with the first locking hole; as well as A locking member that interacts with the first cover and the second cover to releasably lock the first cover to the second cover, the locking member comprising: A shaft, when the insulating cover is in the closed position, is inserted into the first locking hole and the second locking hole, the shaft having a first outer diameter and comprising: The end portion has at least a portion forming a second outer diameter on the shaft, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter of the shaft; A gripping portion adjacent to the end portion, the gripping portion having a first end, a second end, and a helical flange, the helical flange being wound around the axis and extending from the first end to the second end, wherein the helical flange includes a plurality of helical structures connected in series on the axis; and A retaining portion, adjacent to the gripping portion, the retaining portion having a first end and a second end starting at the outer surface of the second end of the gripping portion; and The head, located at the end of the shaft adjacent to the retaining portion, has a tool mounting member for rotating the shaft.

8. The lid system of claim 7, wherein, The outer diameter of the spiral flange gradually increases along the length of the gripping portion, wherein the minimum outer diameter begins at the first end of the gripping portion and the maximum diameter is at the second end of the gripping portion.

9. The lid system of claim 7, wherein, The plurality of spiral structures connected in series on the shaft form a continuous spiral structure.

10. The cover system according to claim 7, wherein, The first and second ends of the retaining portion are configured to contact the insulating cover when the insulating cover is covering the high-voltage connector.

11. The cover system according to claim 7, wherein, The portion of the shaft within the retaining part has a smooth outer surface.

12. The cover system according to claim 7, wherein, The tool mounting component is a ring-shaped component.

13. A cover system for a high-voltage electrical connector, the cover system comprising: An insulating cover having a first cover portion connected to a second cover portion via a hinge, the insulating cover being movable about the hinge portion between an open position and a closed position, the first cover portion having a first locking hole, and the second cover portion having a second locking hole, wherein when the insulating cover is in the closed position, the second locking hole is aligned with the first locking hole; as well as A locking member that interacts with the first cover and the second cover to releasably lock the first cover to the second cover when the insulating cover is in the closed position, the locking member comprising: A shaft, when the insulating cover is in the closed position, is inserted into the first locking hole and the second locking hole, the shaft having a first outer diameter and comprising: The end portion has at least a portion forming a second outer diameter on the shaft, wherein the second outer diameter is larger than the first outer diameter of the shaft; A gripping portion adjacent to the end portion, the gripping portion having a first end, a second end, and a helical flange, the helical flange being wound around the axis and extending from the first end to the second end; and A retaining portion, adjacent to the gripping portion, the retaining portion having a first end and a second end starting at the outer surface of the second end of the gripping portion; and The head, located at the end of the shaft adjacent to the retaining portion, has a tool mounting member for rotating the shaft.

14. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The outer diameter of the spiral flange gradually increases along the length of the gripping portion, wherein the minimum outer diameter begins at the first end of the gripping portion and the maximum diameter is at the second end of the gripping portion.

15. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The spiral flange comprises a continuous spiral structure.

16. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The helical flange includes multiple helical structures connected in series on the shaft.

17. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The first and second ends of the retaining portion are configured to contact the insulating cover when the insulating cover is covering the high-voltage connector.

18. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The portion of the shaft within the retaining part has a smooth outer surface.

19. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The tool mounting component is a ring-shaped component.

20. The cover system according to claim 13, wherein, The hinge is a movable hinge.

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