Cable joint with interlocking jaw members

Abstract

A cable connector includes a sleeve having a central portion and a first end including a first hole. The sleeve defines an internal cavity. A jaw assembly is positioned within the internal cavity and movable between an inserted position and a terminated position for engaging a conductor. A biasing member biases the jaw assembly toward the terminated position. The jaw assembly includes a jaw member having a jaw body, a curved protrusion extending from the jaw body, and a curved groove extending into the jaw body. The protrusion and groove are aligned with each other and configured to mate with corresponding grooves and protrusions of adjacent jaw members.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62 / 991,825, filed March 19, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and claims priority thereto. Technical Field

[0003] This invention relates to a connector for connecting first and second utility transmission line cables. Background Technology

[0004] Splice connectors can be used to join various electrical conductors, including high-voltage power lines. Some splice connectors allow users to simply input two different conductors into the connector. These splice connectors (often called automatic connectors) can be used by utility line workers during the installation or repair of broken power lines to quickly connect suspended sections of cable.

[0005] Automatic couplings typically consist of a housing with openings at each axial end for receiving the cable. After the cable is inserted, the housing includes clamps for holding the cable in its relative position. The automatic coupling is then able to transfer power from one cable to another. Properly positioning the cable within the housing is crucial for ensuring a safe and durable connection. This positioning is particularly suitable for exposed cables subjected to stresses from different directions, such as those from wind, ice, rapid travel, or additional loads that may occur during normal use.

[0006] Utility linemen use automated splicers in a variety of situations and environmental conditions during normal or emergency power restoration. Applying significant force to insert cables or knowing whether a cable is fully inserted can be difficult for linemen. Automated splices typically have non-transparent casing or housings, making it impossible to visually inspect cable positioning. If the cable is not properly or fully inserted, the clamps will not function as intended. A failed splice connection can release live cable, creating a dangerous situation for people and property, especially with live wires. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Depending on various aspects, the cable connector includes a sleeve having a central portion and a first end including a first hole. The sleeve defines an internal cavity. A jaw assembly is positioned within the internal cavity and movable between an insertion position and a termination position for engaging conductors. A biasing member biases the jaw assembly toward the termination position. The jaw assembly includes a jaw member having a jaw body, a curved protrusion extending from the jaw body, and a curved groove extending into the jaw body. The protrusion and groove are aligned with each other and configured to mate with corresponding grooves and protrusions of adjacent jaw members.

[0008] Depending on various aspects, the cable connector includes a sleeve having a central portion and a first end including a first hole. The sleeve defines an internal cavity. A first jaw is positioned within the internal cavity and movable between an insert position and a stop position. The first jaw has a first protrusion and a first groove. A second jaw is positioned within the internal cavity and movable between an insert position and a stop position. The second jaw has a second protrusion and a second groove. A third jaw is positioned within the internal cavity and movable between an insert position and a stop position. The third jaw has a third protrusion and a third groove. The first, second, and third jaws are positioned such that each of the protrusions mates with a corresponding groove.

[0009] According to some aspects, the jaws for utility line cable connectors include a jaw body having a front surface, a rear surface, an outer curved surface, and an inner curved surface. The jaw body is configured to be positioned inside a forged sleeve. A protrusion extends from the jaw body. The protrusion includes a base, a point end, an outer curved protrusion surface, and an inner curved protrusion surface. A groove extends into the jaw body. The groove includes an inner end and an outer end. The groove includes a first radius of curvature and a second radius of curvature. The first radius of curvature is not equal to the second radius of curvature. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Aspects and features of various exemplary embodiments will become more apparent from the description of those exemplary embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0011] Figure 1 This is a side view of an exemplary connector with an inserted cable.

[0012] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 The cross-sectional view does not show the connector into which the cable is inserted.

[0013] Figure 3 This is a perspective view of an exemplary sleeve.

[0014] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the casing.

[0015] Figure 5 This is a front perspective view of an exemplary guide.

[0016] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The rear perspective view.

[0017] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 A side sectional view of the guide component.

[0018] Figure 8 This is a side view of an exemplary escort cup.

[0019] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A sectional view.

[0020] Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Rear view.

[0021] Figure 11 yes Figure 8 Front view.

[0022] Figure 12 This is a side view of an exemplary pilot cup.

[0023] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 A sectional view.

[0024] Figure 14 yes Figure 12 Front view.

[0025] Figure 15 yes Figure 12 Rear view.

[0026] Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary guide, escort cup, and guide cup.

[0027] Figure 17 This is an exploded perspective view of an exemplary jaw assembly.

[0028] Figure 18 yes Figure 17 A top view of the jaw components.

[0029] Figure 19 yes Figure 17 Side view of the jaw component.

[0030] Figure 20 This is a front perspective view of an exemplary carrier.

[0031] Figure 21 yes Figure 20 Side perspective view.

[0032] Figure 22 yes Figure 20 Top view.

[0033] Figure 23 yes Figure 20 Side view.

[0034] Figure 24 yes Figure 23 A sectional view.

[0035] Figure 25 This is a bottom view of an exemplary jaw member of the second jaw assembly.

[0036] Figure 26 yes Figure 25 Side view.

[0037] Figure 27 This is a front view of an exemplary retainer for the second jaw assembly.

[0038] Figure 28 This is a side view of an exemplary second jaw assembly.

[0039] Figure 29 yes Figure 28 Front view.

[0040] Figure 30 This is a top view of an exemplary carrier and the second jaw assembly.

[0041] Figure 31 yes Figure 30 A sectional view.

[0042] Figure 32 This is a front view of an exemplary center stop.

[0043] Figure 33 This is a cross-sectional view of the center stop in the bushing.

[0044] Figure 34 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector before cable insertion.

[0045] Figure 35 This is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary connector after the cable has been fully inserted.

[0046] Figure 36 This is a top view of the dual-chamber carrier.

[0047] Figure 37 yes Figure 36 A cross-sectional view of the dual-chamber carrier.

[0048] Figure 38 This is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a dead-end connector.

[0049] Figure 39 This is a partial view of a cable connector with a clamp assembly, according to another embodiment.

[0050] Figure 40 yes Figure 39 A perspective view of the jaw assembly.

[0051] Figure 41 yes Figure 40 Rear view.

[0052] Figure 42 yes Figure 40 Top perspective view of the jaw components.

[0053] Figure 43 yes Figure 42 Bottom perspective view.

[0054] Figure 44 yes Figure 42 Rear view.

[0055] Figure 45 yes Figure 44 The image shows a cross-sectional view of the groove. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Various exemplary embodiments are provided for cable connectors used with multi-strand cable 10. Multi-strand cable 10 may include an outer layer surrounding an inner layer. In exemplary embodiments, the outer layer is made of a first material, such as aluminum strands, while the inner layer is made of a second material, such as steel strands.

[0057] According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector includes a sleeve 12 having a first side and a second side, each side having a set of components. The sleeve 12 includes a generally tubular body having a first sleeve end 14 and a second sleeve end 16, at least a portion of which tapers gradually to the respective ends of the sleeve 12. The sleeve surrounds an internal cavity that can be divided into a first chamber, a second chamber, and a central region. The components in the second chamber may be the same as those in the first chamber. However, some embodiments may utilize different components in the second chamber. The invention can also be used as a dead-end connector having only a single chamber. Although the drawings depict a first chamber and a second chamber having the same components, for the sake of brevity, in some instances only the components of the first chamber may be discussed.

[0058] In an example embodiment, the components may include: a guide assembly having a guide 20, a delivery cup 22, and a guide cup 24; a first clamp in the form of a first jaw assembly 26; a carrier assembly having a carrier 28, a second clamp in the form of a second jaw assembly 30, and a biasing member 32; and a center stop 34. The biasing member 36 is positioned between the carrier assembly and the first jaw assembly 26, and another biasing member 38 is positioned between the center stop 34 and the carrier assembly.

[0059] Figure 3 and Figure 4An exemplary sleeve 12 with a swaged tubular body is shown, although various shapes with any number of straight or curved edges can be used. The sleeve 12 includes a first sleeve bore 40 and a second sleeve bore 42. The first sleeve bore 40 and the second sleeve bore 42 may include chamfered or beveled edges to allow for easy installation of additional components. The first sleeve end 14 tapers gradually from the central region 18 to the first sleeve bore 40, forming a first truncated conical member defining a first chamber. Similarly, the second sleeve end tapers gradually from the central region 18 to the second sleeve bore 42, forming a second truncated conical member defining a second chamber. As discussed below, various components are housed in the first and second chambers. For simplicity, in some instances only the components of the first chamber may be discussed.

[0060] The guide 20 can be positioned such that it has a portion positioned outside the sleeve 12 and a portion extending into the sleeve 12 through the first sleeve bore 40. The guide 20 receives and guides the cable 10 as it is inserted into the connector. The guide 20 helps prevent cable strands from unraveling, allowing for quick, easy, and clean insertion of a length of cable. In some embodiments, the guide 20 can be configured to withdraw from the sleeve to demonstrate proper engagement of one or more jaws with the conductor. An example of such a guide 20 is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 10,498,052, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0061] like Figures 5-7 In the best-illustrated embodiment, guide 20 includes a receiving end 44 having a funnel-shaped body surrounding an aperture and a cylindrical shaft 46 extending from the receiving end 44. The receiving end 44 is positioned outside the sleeve 12, while the shaft 46 extends into the first chamber. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the receiving end 44 and the shaft 46 are partially or entirely positioned within the first chamber. Guide 20 may also function as a visual indicator for displaying information to a user. For example, the receiving end 44 and / or the shaft 46 may include colored portions, where the color indicates the type of conductor used for splicing.

[0062] The receiving end 44 can be of various shapes and sizes, depending on relevant factors such as cable shape and size. The inner surface of the guide 20 may include one or more curved transitions between the receiving end 44 and the outer edge of the shaft 46. In an exemplary embodiment where more than one curved transition is present, the transitions may have different radii of curvature. For example, the transition near the outer edge may have a first radius of curvature, while the transition near the shaft 46 may have a second radius of curvature larger than the first radius of curvature.

[0063] Shaft 46 has a first inner surface defining a first portion 48 having a first diameter and a second inner surface defining a second portion 50 having a second diameter. The diameter of the first portion 48 is smaller than the diameter of the second portion 50, and a crossbar 52 is formed at the transition between the two. The first portion 48 includes a groove 54. The outer surface of shaft 46 includes one or more ribs 56. The ribs 56 engage the inner sleeve surface, providing a secure fit between the sleeve 12 and the guide 20, helping to hold the guide 20 in position and preventing unwanted movement relative to the sleeve 12.

[0064] An exemplary embodiment of the escort cup 22 is in Figures 8-11 The image is shown in the diagram. The escort cup 22 is positioned behind the guide 20 to receive the conductor 10 when it is inserted into the sleeve 12. The escort cup 22 may be connected to, adjacent to, or laterally spaced from the guide 20. After the cable is inserted and passes through the guide 20, it enters the escort cup 22 to travel through the first jaw assembly 26. At least a portion of the escort cup 22 may be initially positioned within the first jaw assembly 26.

[0065] The escort cup 22 includes a front end 58 with an opening for receiving the cable and a rear shaft 60. The front end 58 has a generally cylindrical outer surface and an inner surface with a tapered section forming a truncated conical region. The tapered section allows for the proper mating of conductors of different sizes. A groove 62 is formed around the rear shaft. The rear shaft 60 is hollow and has a generally cylindrical construction. The escort cup 22 helps prevent the outer strands of the cable 10 from unraveling.

[0066] An exemplary embodiment of the guide cup 24 is in Figures 12-15 The cable 10 is shown in the diagram. A guide cup 24 is positioned behind the guide 20 and the escort cup 22 to receive the conductor 10 when it is inserted into the sleeve 12. The guide cup 24 may be connected to, adjacent to, or laterally spaced from the escort cup 22. After the cable 10 or a portion thereof is inserted and passes through the guide 20 and the escort cup 22, it enters the guide cup 24 to travel through the first jaw assembly 26. At least a portion of the guide cup 24 may be initially positioned within the first jaw assembly 26.

[0067] According to an exemplary embodiment, the guide cup 22 has a cylindrical outer surface, wherein a first end of the opening has a first diameter and a second end of the opening has a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. In alternative embodiments, various shapes, sizes, and configurations can be used. The guide cup 24 has a first inner surface surrounding a first chamber 64 (having a first diameter near the first end) and a tapered second inner surface surrounding a second chamber 66 (having a varying diameter near the second end). The tapered second chamber 66 allows for proper mating of conductors of different sizes. The diameter of the first chamber 64 is larger than the diameter of the second chamber 66, resulting in the guide cup 24 having a thicker, inner rear wall 68. When the guide cup 24 is positioned in the first jaw assembly 26, the thicker rear wall 68 provides additional support against forces exerted on the guide cup 24 by the first jaw assembly 26, helping to prevent the guide cup 24 from being crushed, deformed, or displaced. The guide cup 24 helps prevent the inner strands of the cable 10 from unraveling.

[0068] like Figure 16 As best shown, in the initial or inserted position, the guide 20, the escort cup 22, and the guide cup 24 are connected to form a guide assembly. The escort cup 22 is initially positioned at least partially inside a second section of the guide 20, wherein the front end of the escort cup engages the crossbar 52. The rear axle 60 of the escort cup 22 is positioned at least partially inside the guide cup 24, such that a portion of the guide cup 24 is received in an external recess 62. When the cable 10 is inserted, the escort cup 22 and the guide cup 24 disengage from the guide 20 and travel through the first jaw assembly 26. In some embodiments, the position and spacing of the guide 20, the escort cup 22, and the guide cup 24 may vary.

[0069] The first jaw assembly 26 is positioned between the guide assembly and the first external biasing member 36. For example... Figures 17-19 As best shown, the first jaw assembly 26 includes an upper jaw member 76 and a lower jaw member 78. Although two jaw members 76, 78 are shown in this exemplary embodiment, one jaw member or more than two jaw members may also be used. Some embodiments may utilize other cable retainers instead of or in combination with jaw members 76, 78, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

[0070] like Figure 17As shown, the upper jaw member 76 and the lower jaw member 78 are substantially identical, and the same reference numerals will be used for similar parts when describing jaw members 76 and 78. Jaw members 76 and 78 have a front jaw surface 80, a rear jaw surface 82, and a jaw body 84 extending therebetween. The jaw body 84 has an arcuate outer surface and an inner surface. At least a portion of the jaw body 84 has a semi-funnel shape, tapering gradually toward the front jaw surface 80. This tapering is similar to or corresponds to the tapering of the inner sleeve surface, allowing jaw members 76 and 78 to slide within a first chamber. At least a portion of the inner surface of the jaw body 84 includes a series of teeth 86. The teeth 86 can have any shape, pitch, length, width, or spacing. In an exemplary embodiment, the teeth 86 extend from the inner surface at an angle toward the rear jaw surface 82.

[0071] Jaw members 76 and 78 include one or more radially extending protrusions 88 and one or more corresponding openings 90. The protrusions 88 and openings 90 can have various sizes or shapes. The protrusions 88 and openings 90 are staggered so that a single component can be used for both the upper jaw member 76 and the lower jaw member 78. When placed together, the protrusion 88 from the upper jaw member 76 will mate with the opening 90 of the lower jaw member 78, and vice versa. This mating relationship couples the upper jaw member 76 to the lower jaw member 78 to prevent axial movement of one jaw member relative to the other, thereby ensuring substantially uniform axial movement between the jaw members 76 and 78. The protrusion 88 extends radially inward and has a length that prevents the jaw members 76, 78 from disengaging radially from each other as they are pushed toward the central region 18, and also prevents the protrusion 88 from interfering with the movement of the jaw members 76, 78 as they are biased toward the first sleeve end 16 by extending through the opening 90 and contacting the inner sleeve surface 42.

[0072] According to an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 36 has a first end for contacting the jaw surface 82 and a second end for contacting the carrier 28. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 36 is a helical spring, although the biasing member 20 may be other devices or materials. The outer diameter, wire diameter, pitch, length, and material type of the spring may vary depending on the application.

[0073] Figures 20-24 An exemplary embodiment of the carrier 28 is shown. The carrier 28 has a body surrounding an interior, with a front portion facing a first hole 40 and a second end facing a central stop 34. The body has a generally tubular structure, having a nose 92, a rear wall 94, and one or more ridges 96. A window 98 is formed near the rear wall 94.

[0074] In an exemplary embodiment, the interior includes a first region 100, a second region 102, and a third region 103. The first region 100 includes an opening 100 for receiving the escort cup 22. Although a bell-shaped opening is shown, the construction of the opening can vary, for example, to accommodate escort cups 22 of different sizes and shapes. The second region 102 has a truncated conical shape that widens from the first region 100 to the third region 103. The third region 103 has a generally cylindrical construction and communicates with the window 98. A hole 106 is provided in the rear wall 94.

[0075] The second jaw assembly 30 is positioned inside the carrier 28. In an exemplary embodiment, the second jaw assembly 30 includes three jaw members 108 and a retainer 110. Each jaw member 108 has a front jaw surface 112, a rear jaw surface 114, and a jaw body 116 extending therebetween. The jaw body 116 has an arcuate outer surface and an inner surface. At least a portion of the jaw body 116 is angled or tapers toward the front jaw surface 112, allowing the jaw members 108 to move or slide within the carrier 28. At least a portion of the inner surface of the jaw body 116 includes a series of teeth 118. The teeth 118 may have any shape, pitch, length, width, or spacing. A first groove and a second groove 120 are formed in the jaw body 116 to receive the retainer 110. The retainer 110 has three slots 122 configured to mate with slots 120 in the jaw member 108, and three curved portions 124 with outer edges substantially aligned with the outer edges of the jaw body 116, to give the assembly a substantially circular construction, such as... Figure 29 As shown. Figure 30 and Figure 31 As shown, the second jaw assembly 30 and the internal biasing member 32 are positioned inside the carrier 28. The second jaw assembly 30 and the biasing member 32 can be inserted into the carrier 28 through the carrier window 98.

[0076] Figure 32 and Figure 33 An exemplary embodiment of the center stop 34 is shown. The center stop 34 has a central wall 126, a first opening 128, and a second opening 130. The first opening 128 receives a second end of a second external bias member 38 and at least partially surrounds a portion of the bias member 38. This partial surrounding helps to hold the bias member 38 in place, preventing it from being displaced and from being unable to apply a proper biasing force in the correct direction. According to various exemplary embodiments, the center stop 34 is substantially cylindrical, having corresponding cylindrical first opening 128 and second opening 130, although any shape or combination of shapes of the center stop 34 and the first opening 128 and second opening 130 may be used. The center stop 34 is held in position within a central chamber by a first set of recesses 132A and a second set of recesses 132B.

[0077] In an alternative embodiment, the carrier 28 may be a dual-chamber carrier 200, which includes having Figure 30 and Figure 31 The first side of the dual-chamber configuration is shown, along with a second side having a substantially identical opposite configuration. In this embodiment, the center stop 34 and the offset member 38 can be removed. The first and second sides of the dual-chamber configuration can be separated by a single rear wall 94 or other structures. In an exemplary embodiment, the structure separating the first and second sides can be configured to mate with a first set of notches 132A and a second set of notches 132B to hold the carrier in place. An example of a dual-chamber carrier is shown in... Figure 36 and Figure 37 It is shown in the middle.

[0078] For example, the dual-chamber carrier 200 has a body 202 surrounding a first interior 204 and a second interior 206. The first interior 204 and the second interior 206 are separated by a central wall 208. The central wall 208 can be as follows: Figure 38 The shown is closed or includes, as Figure 24 The through opening is shown. The main body 202 has a basic tubular structure, wherein the first nose 210 faces the first hole 40 and the second nose 212 faces the second hole 42.

[0079] The first interior 204 includes a first region 214, a second region 216, and a third region 218. The first region 214 includes an opening for receiving the escort cup 22. Although a bell-shaped opening is shown, its construction can vary, for example, to accommodate escort cups 22 of different sizes and shapes. The second region 216 has a truncated conical shape that widens from the first region 214 to the third region 218. The third region 218 has a generally cylindrical construction and communicates with the window 220. The second interior 206 has the opposite construction. Similar to the single-chamber carrier 28 described above, the second jaw assembly 30 is positioned within the first interior 204 and the second interior 206.

[0080] Figure 34 An exemplary embodiment of the connector in its initial or inserted position is shown. A guide 20 extends into the sleeve 12, a delivery cup 22 is positioned within the guide 22, and a guide cup 24 is connected to the delivery cup 22. A portion of the guide cup 24 and the delivery cup 22 are positioned within a first jaw assembly 26, for example, between an upper jaw member 76 and a lower jaw member 78. The positioning of the delivery cup 22 and the guide cup 24 prevents the upper jaw member 76 and the lower jaw member 78 from moving close together and from moving toward the first hole 40, keeping the jaw assembly 26 open to receive the cable 10. In this position, the jaw assembly 26 compresses the biasing member 36 in the inserted position.

[0081] When the automatic connector is in the initial or inserted position, the first cable 10 and the second cable 10 can be inserted into their respective ends of the sleeve 12. In an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the outer layer of the cable is stripped to expose the inner layer. The guide 20 of the receiving end 44 is used to contain the strands of the cable 10 and guide them into and through their respective first sleeve bores 40.

[0082] During insertion, the inner layer of cable 10 passes through the escort cup 22 and enters the guide cup 24. The inner layer of cable 10 engages with the guide cup 24, and the outer layer of cable 10 engages with the escort cup 22. Both the escort cup 22 and the guide cup 24 have tapered inner portions to engage cables 10 of different sizes.

[0083] After the cable 10 is fully engaged with the guide cup 24, axial pressure applied by the user pushes the guide cup 24, the escort cup 22, and the cable 10 through the first jaw assembly 26. After the escort cup 22 and the guide cup 24 leave the first jaw assembly 26, the biasing member 36 pushes the jaw assembly 26 toward the first hole 40 to engage the outer layer of the cable 10. As the first jaw assembly 26 moves forward, the tapered jaw body 84 slides along the surface of the tapered inner sleeve, forcing the upper jaw 76 and the lower jaw 78 to move radially closer to each other. The cable 10 may still be able to move toward the joint center, where the first jaw member 26 has angled teeth 86 that allow the cable 10 to slide toward the joint center along the teeth 86, but resist movement in the opposite direction.

[0084] Because the guide cup 24 is already positioned within the first jaw assembly 26, the user does not need to apply significant force to open the jaw assembly 26 or insert the bias member 36. The rounded outer edge also facilitates the movement of the escort cup 22 through the first jaw assembly 26. Furthermore, holding the escort cup 22 and the guide cup 24 within the first jaw assembly 26 helps prevent displacement and also prevents any fraying ends of the cable 10 from interfering with the jaw assembly 26 or the bias member 36, which would adversely affect the connection made by the connector.

[0085] Further insertion causes cable 10 and guide cup 24 to enter carrier 28. Escort cup 22 is received within an opening in the first region 100 of carrier 28. Guide cup 22 and cable 10 pass through second jaw assembly 30, causing the second jaw assembly to engage the inner layer of the cable. Cable 10 may terminate in carrier 28 or guide cup 24, and cable 10 may pass through rear wall 94 and hole 106, depending on cable length. Guide cup 24 may initially move second jaw assembly 30 within carrier, widening second jaw assembly 30 until a point is reached where guide cup 24 will pass through jaw member 108 and retainer 110.

[0086] In an alternative embodiment, the guide 20, the escort cup 22, and the guide cup 24 can be removed from the sleeve 12 before the cable 10 is inserted. Because some cables tend to spread out considerably, the cable can be at least partially inserted into the guide 20, and then the outer layer can be removed to expose the inner layer. After the cable has been properly held, i.e., after the escort cup 22 has been slid along the outer strands and the guide cup 24 along the inner strands, the guide 20, the escort cup 22, and the guide cup 24 can be reinserted into the sleeve 12 along with the cable 10.

[0087] like Figure 38 As best shown, the connector configuration can also be used for the dead-end connector 300. The dead-end connector 300 includes half of an automatic connector 310 with a sleeve 312. Although not shown, the dead-end connector 310 may include any combination of the internal components of the connector discussed herein. The closed end of the dead-end connector 300 can be considered as the central portion. The sleeve 312 is attached to the dead-end connector 314. In this exemplary embodiment, a U-clamp type dead-end connector is used, although other types of connectors as understood by those skilled in the art can be used. The dead-end connector 314 includes a retaining washer 316, a yoke 318, and a bail 320. A U-clamp pin 322 is secured to the bail 320 and held by a cotter pin 324.

[0088] Figures 39-45 An exemplary embodiment of a jaw assembly 400 is shown, which can be used as one or both of the jaw assemblies described above. Figure 39 A jaw assembly 400 (half of the connector shown) is positioned within a sleeve 402. An indicator 404 is positioned at the end of the sleeve 402. The indicator 404 may be color-coded to provide information to the user, such as the type of conductor being spliced. A conductor 406 is inserted into the sleeve 402, and a guide cup 408 is attached to the end of the conductor 406. A center stop 410 is positioned within the sleeve 402. A biasing member 412 is positioned between the center stop 410 and the jaw assembly 400. The biasing member 412 biases the jaw assembly 400 toward the end of the sleeve 402. As noted above, the jaw assembly 400 may also be configured to operate within the carriers 28, 200 discussed above.

[0089] Jaw component 420 is basically the same as Figure 40 and Figure 41 The same reference numerals are best shown in the diagram, and the same reference numerals will be used for similar parts when describing jaw members 420. Although three jaw members 420 are shown in this exemplary embodiment, other numbers of jaw members 420 may also be used.

[0090] like Figure 42 and Figure 43 As best shown, the jaw member 420 has a jaw body 422 with a front jaw surface 424 and a rear jaw surface 426. The jaw body 422 has an arcuate outer surface 428 and an arcuate inner surface 430 relative to the sleeve 402. At least a portion of the jaw body 422 tapers towards the front jaw surface 424. This taper is similar to or corresponds to the taper of the inner sleeve surface or the inner carrier surface, allowing the jaw member 420 to slide within the first chamber or carrier as needed. At least a portion of the inner surface 430 of the jaw body 422 includes a series of teeth 432. The teeth 432 can have any shape, pitch, length, width, or spacing. In an exemplary embodiment, the teeth 432 extend from the inner surface 430 at an angle towards the rear jaw surface 426.

[0091] Jaw member 420 includes a protrusion 434 extending from jaw body 422 and a recess 436 extending into jaw body 422. In some embodiments, the protrusion 434 and recess 436 may have a circumferential or helical configuration. The protrusion 434 and recess 436 may have various sizes or shapes. The protrusion 434 and recess 436 are aligned such that a single component can be used for jaw member 420. When placed together, the protrusion 434 will mate with the recess 436. This mating relationship couples jaw members 420 to prevent axial movement of one jaw member 420 relative to the other jaw members 420, thereby ensuring substantially uniform axial movement among the jaw members 420. Taking into account the gaps or spaces between the jaw members, the position and configuration of the protrusion 434 and recess 436 can result in three jaw members substantially covering the entire circumference of the associated cable. When used inside the carriers 28 and 200 as described above, the use of the jaw assembly 400 eliminates the need for the retainer 110 that couples the jaws together.

[0092] Figure 44 An example of the rear portion of the jaw member 420 and the protrusion 434 is shown. The protrusion 434 includes a base 438 positioned at or near the jaw body 422 and a point end 440 positioned separate from the jaw body 422. The outer surface of the protrusion 434 has a first radius of curvature PR1, and the inner surface of the protrusion 434 has a second radius of curvature PR2. The first radius of curvature PR1 may be different from the second radius of curvature PR2. The first radius of curvature PR1 may be equal to or substantially the same as the curvature of the outer surface 428 of the jaw body 422.

[0093] Figure 45An example of a groove 436 is best illustrated. The groove 436 includes an inner end 442 located at or near the inner surface 430 of the jaw body 422 and an outer end 444 located at or near the outer surface 428 of the jaw body 422. The groove 436 may have a varying curvature between the inner and outer ends. For example, the groove may have a first radius of curvature GR1 near the inner end and a second radius of curvature GR2 near the outer end. In the illustrated example, the first radius of curvature GR1 is greater than the second radius of curvature GR2. The first groove curvature GR1 and the second groove curvature GR2 are shown for reference because the illustrated groove 436 contains more than two curvatures. In some embodiments, one curvature, two curvatures, or more than three different curvatures may be used. The curvature of the groove may also vary infinitely from the inner end 424 to the outer end 444. In the illustrated embodiment, the curvature of the groove 436 varies to match the curvature of the outer surface 428 of the jaw body 422.

[0094] Any of the features described herein can also be used with other types of joints. For example, the features described herein can be used with corrosion-resistant joints such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 7,799,996, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0095] The foregoing detailed description of certain exemplary embodiments has been provided to explain the principles of the invention and its practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the various embodiments of the invention and various modifications suitable for the contemplated particular uses. This description is not necessarily intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the disclosed exemplary embodiments. Any embodiments and / or elements disclosed herein can be combined with each other to form various additional embodiments not specifically disclosed. Therefore, other embodiments are possible and are intended to be covered within the scope of this specification and the appended claims. Specific examples are described in the specification to achieve a more general objective that may be achieved in another manner.

[0096] As used in this application, the terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “upward,” “downward,” and other directional descriptors are intended to facilitate the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the structure of exemplary embodiments of the invention to any particular location or orientation. Degree terms, such as “substantially” or “approximately,” are understood by those skilled in the art to refer to a reasonable range beyond a given value, for example, general tolerances associated with the manufacture, assembly, and use of the described embodiments.

Claims

1. A cable connector, comprising: A sleeve having a central portion and a first end including a first hole, wherein the sleeve defines an internal cavity; A jaw assembly, which is positioned within the internal cavity and movable between an insert position and a terminated position, is used to engage a conductor; as well as A biasing member that biases the jaw assembly toward the termination position. The jaw assembly includes a jaw member having a jaw body, a curved protrusion extending from the jaw body, and a curved groove extending into the jaw body. The protrusion and groove are aligned with each other and configured to engage with corresponding grooves and protrusions of adjacent jaw members. The protrusion has a helical configuration, and the groove has a helical configuration. The protrusion includes a base and a point end, and the protrusion tapers gradually from the base to the point end. The protrusion includes an outer surface having a first radius of curvature and an inner surface having a second radius of curvature.

2. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein, The groove includes a first radius of curvature and a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature is different from the second radius of curvature.

3. The cable connector according to claim 2, wherein, The groove includes an inner end positioned near the inner surface of the jaw body and an outer end positioned near the outer surface of the jaw body, the first radius of curvature being positioned at the inner end and the second radius of curvature being positioned at the outer end.

4. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein, The curvature of the groove is varied to match the outer surface of the jaw body.

5. The cable connector according to claim 1, wherein, The jaw assembly is positioned inside the carrier.

6. The cable connector according to claim 5, wherein, The carrier includes a first chamber and a second chamber.

7. A cable connector, comprising: A sleeve having a central portion and a first end including a first hole, wherein the sleeve defines an internal cavity; A first jaw, which is positioned in the internal cavity and is movable between an insertion position and a termination position, has a first protrusion and a first groove. The second jaw is positioned in the internal cavity and is movable between the insertion position and the termination position, and the second jaw has a second protrusion and a second groove. as well as A third jaw, positioned within the internal cavity and movable between the insertion position and the termination position, the third jaw having a third protrusion and a third groove. The first jaw, the second jaw, and the third jaw are positioned such that each of the protrusions mates with a corresponding groove, and wherein the first protrusion has a helical structure and the first groove has a helical structure, wherein the first protrusion includes a base and a point end, and the first protrusion tapers gradually from the base to the point end, wherein the first protrusion includes an outer surface having a first radius of curvature and an inner surface having a second radius of curvature.

8. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein, The first groove includes a first radius of curvature and a second radius of curvature, wherein the first radius of curvature is different from the second radius of curvature.

9. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein, The first jaw has a first jaw body and the curvature of the first groove varies to match the outer surface of the first jaw body.

10. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein, The first radius of curvature is different from the second radius of curvature.

11. The cable connector according to claim 7, wherein, The first jaw, the second jaw, and the third jaw are positioned inside the carrier.

12. The cable connector according to claim 11, wherein, The carrier includes a first chamber and a second chamber.

13. A clamp for a cable connector according to claim 1, comprising: A jaw body having a front surface, a rear surface, an outer curved surface, and an inner curved surface, the jaw body being configured to be positioned inside a forged sleeve. A protrusion extending from the jaw body, the protrusion including a base, a point end, a curved protrusion outer surface and a curved protrusion inner surface; as well as A groove extending into the jaw body, the groove including an inner end and an outer end, wherein the groove includes a first radius of curvature and a second radius of curvature, and wherein the first radius of curvature is not equal to the second radius of curvature. The protrusion has a helical structure and the groove has a helical structure.

14. The jaws according to claim 13, wherein, The protrusion gradually tapers from the base to the point.

15. The jaws according to claim 13, wherein, The curvature of the groove is varied to match the outer surface of the jaw body.

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