Live wire splicing device for power metering

Abstract

A method 200 suitable for splicing into an electrical wire. The method comprises securing at least one portion of the electrical wire at a predefined location in a housing 210, the electrical wire car

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to methods and apparatus for splicing into an electrical wire, while said electrical wire is carrying an electrical current. BACKGROUND

[0002] It is desirable to install metering or monitoring equipment in electrical devices, in order to monitor a status of the device, a power usage, or other similar parameter of the electrical device or associated electrical wire. A monitoring or metering equipment may be a ‘smart’ metering device. Some electrical devices may be considered ‘critical’ devices, and therefore it is either not possible or not desirable for the device to be powered down due to the application within which the device operates. Such critical devices may include, for example, security systems, medical equipment, data storage or backup systems, high-availability server equipment, communications systems, monitoring or metering devices, or similar.

[0003] There is therefore a need to install devices for metering such equipment without powering down the device. Said installation must also be safe for an individual installing the metering device, due to the risks and dangers associated with working with electrical wires that are carrying an electrical current. It is in this context within which the disclosed device and techniques have been formulated. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a device for splicing into an electrical wire, comprising: a housing arranged to receive and secure a portion of an electrical wire carrying an electrical current; a lid coupled to the housing and operable to be secured to the housing so as to enclose the secured portion of the electrical wire; a first mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the first mechanism is operable to splice a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish a first electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location; a second mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the second mechanism is operable to splice the live conductor of the electrical wire at a second location to establish a second electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location; a monitoring device arranged in parallel with the live conductor, operable to validate an integrity of the first and second electrical connections and output an indication of the integrity of the electrical connections; at least one electrically insulating blade; and an activation mechanism operable to cause the at least one electrically insulating blade to remove a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location.

[0005] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, there is provided a method for splicing into an electrical wire, comprising: securing at least one portion of the electrical wire at a predefined location in an housing, the electrical wire carrying an electrical current; securing a lid to the housing so as to enclose the portion of the electrical wire, wherein securing the lid in the closed position is operable to: splice a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish a first electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location; splice the live conductor at a second location to establish a second electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location; validate an integrity of the first and second electrical connections; output an indication of the integrity of the electrical connections; removing a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Further details, aspects and embodiments of the invention will be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, like reference numbers are used to identify like or functionally similar elements. Elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and have not necessarily been drawn to scale.

[0007] Figures 1A and 1B show views of a device for splicing into an electrical wire, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 2 shows a flowchart illustrating a method of operation for a device for splicing into an electrical wire, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figures 3A and 3B show views of a device for splicing into an electrical wire, in accordance with a further embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] In the following description, for purposes of explanation, numerous specific details of certain examples are set forth. Reference in the specification to “an example” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the example is included in at least that example, but not necessarily in other examples.

[0011] In accordance with the present disclosure, there is provided a device for splicing into an electrical wire. Splicing into an electrical wire may comprise the joining of two or more conductors together in such a way as to create an electrical connection. The electrical wire may comprise a live conductor and a neutral conductor. Optionally, the electrical wire may further comprise an earth conductor (also referred to as a ground conductor). One or more of the live conductor, the neutral conductor, and the earth conductor may comprise an electrically insulating layer, the electrically insulating layer arranged to electrically insulate the conductor. The electrical wire may comprise an outer insulating layer, surrounding the live conductor and the neutral conductor, and optionally the earth conductor.

[0012] In operation, the electrical cable may carry electrical current. Carrying electrical current comprises conducting an electrical current in one or more conductors of the electrical cable. In some examples, the electrical cable may be operable to carry an alternating current (AC) electrical current. In some examples, the electrical cable may be operable to carry a direct current (DC) electrical current. In accordance with the present disclosure, the device for splicing into the electrical wire may be operable to splice into the electrical wire while the electrical wire is carrying an electrical current. This may alternatively be referred to as the electrical wire being ‘live’, although this nomenclature is not used in the present disclosure in order to avoid confusion with references to the live conductor of the electrical wire.

[0013] The device for splicing into the electrical wire may comprise a housing and a lid coupled to said housing. The housing may formed of an insulating material, such as a plastic or polymer material, including but not limited to, for example, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyethylene (including high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene). In some examples, the lid may be formed from the same material as the housing. In some examples, the lid may be formed from a different material to the housing. In some examples, the lid may be integrally formed with the housing, connected via a hinged connection or similar. In some examples, the lid may be formed separately from the housing, and may be arranged to attach to the housing by one or more attachment means.

[0014] In accordance with the present disclosure, a portion of the outer insulating layer may be removed from the electrical wire, in order that the electrical conductors are exposed. The electrical conductors may comprise a live conductor and a neutral conductor. Optionally, the electrical conductors may comprise an earth conductor. A first portion of the electrical wire may be secured at a first opening of the housing. A second portion of the electrical wire may be secured at a second opening of the housing. The electrical conductors may be secured at predefined locations inside of the housing.

[0015] The housing may comprise at least one portion arranged to receive and secure a portion of the electrical wire. In some examples the housing may comprise a plurality of recessed channels arranged to receive at least one conductor of the electrical wire. The housing may comprise a first portion arranged to receive a portion of the electrical wire having an outer insulating layer, and a second portion arranged to receive one or more conductors of the electrical wire without the outer insulating layer of the electrical wire. In some examples, the housing may comprise one or more of a first recessed portion arranged to receive a live conductor of the electrical wire, a second recessed portion arranged to receive a neutral conductor of the electrical wire, and a third recessed portion arranged to receive an earth conductor of the electrical wire. In some examples, the one or more recessed portions may be sized to receive an conductor of a predetermined diameter.

[0016] In some examples, one or more of the first opening and the second opening of the housing may further comprise strain relief means. The strain relief means may be arranged so as to provide protection to the electrical wire from stress and damage at the point at which the electrical wire enters the housing. In some examples, the strain relief may be realised by means of one or more portions of the housing proximate the first and / or second opening. In some examples, the strain relief may be realised by means of a retaining element, the retaining element arranged to attach to the housing prior to securing the lid to the housing. In some examples, the strain relief may be realised by means of one or more portions of the lid, such that securing the lid to the housing provides the strain relief.

[0017] The lid may be operable to be secured to the housing in such a way as to enclose the secured portion of the electrical wire, and the associated portions of the electrical conductors. The lid secured to the housing may be referred to as a ‘closed’ position of the lid. The lid not secured to the housing may be referred to as an ‘open’ position of the lid. The Enclosing the secured portion of the electrical wire may comprise preventing contact with the secured portion of the electrical wire by a person, a tool, or other similar devices. The lid may be arranged to be permanently secured to the housing, such that the lid cannot be removed from the housing or the secured portion of the electrical cable accessed once the lid has been secured. In some examples, permanently securing the lid to the housing may comprise one or more latched portions of the lid operable to secure into one or more receiving portions of the housing. In some examples, permanently securing the lid to the housing may comprise one or more latched portions of the housing operable to secure into one or more receiving portions of the lid.

[0018] In some examples, the housing may further comprise one or more retaining elements, the one or more retaining elements arranged so as to secure at least one of the electrical wire, the live conductor, the neutral conductor, or the earth conductor at a predefined location prior to securing the lid to the housing. The one or more retaining elements may be arranged proximate one or more of a first recessed portion arranged to receive a live conductor of the electrical wire, a second recessed portion arranged to receive a neutral conductor of the electrical wire, and a third recessed portion arranged to receive an earth conductor of the electrical wire.

[0019] A first mechanism may be operable to splice a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish an electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location. In some examples, the first mechanism may be activated in response to securing the lid to the housing. In some examples, the first mechanism may be activated by applying a force to one or more portions of the lid or the housing. The first mechanism may comprise a first splicing blade. The first splicing blade may be configured to penetrate an insulation surrounding the live conductor at the first location and to establish electrical connection with the live conductor. The first splicing blade may comprise an electrically conductive material. In some examples, the first splicing blade may be positioned in a first recessed portion of the housing. In some examples, the first splicing blade may be positioned on a surface of the lid. The housing may comprise strain relief means proximate the first location, the strain relief means operable to provide protection to the live conductor from stress and damage at the first location.

[0020] A second mechanism may be operable to splice a live conductor of the electrical wire at a second location to establish an electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location. In some examples, the second mechanism may be activated in response to securing the lid to the housing. In some examples, the second mechanism may be activated by applying a force to one or more portions of the lid or the housing. The second mechanism may comprise a second splicing blade. The second splicing blade may be configured to penetrate an insulation surrounding the live conductor at the second location and to establish electrical connection with the live conductor. The second splicing blade may comprise an electrically conductive material. In some examples, the second splicing blade may be positioned in a first recessed portion of the housing. In some examples, the second splicing blade may be positioned on a surface of the lid. The housing may comprise strain relief means proximate the second location, the strain relief means operable to provide protection to the live conductor from stress and damage at the second location.

[0021] In some examples, optionally, a third mechanism may be operable to splice a neutral conductor of the electrical wire at a third location to establish an electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location. In some examples, the third mechanism may be activated in response to securing the lid to the housing. In some examples, the third mechanism may be activated by applying a force to one or more portions of the lid or the housing. The third mechanism may comprise a third splicing blade. The third splicing blade may be configured to penetrate an insulation surrounding the neutral conductor at the third location and to establish electrical connection with the neutral conductor. The third splicing blade may comprise an electrically conductive material. In some examples, the third splicing blade may be positioned in a second recessed portion of the housing. In some examples, the third splicing blade may be positioned on a surface of the lid. The housing may comprise strain relief means proximate the third location, the strain relief means operable to provide protection to the neutral conductor from stress and damage at the third location.

[0022] A monitoring device may be arranged in parallel with the live conductor. The monitoring device may be electrically coupled to at least one part of the first mechanism and to at least one part of the second mechanism. Optionally, the monitoring device may be electrically coupled to at least one part of the third mechanism. The monitoring device is operable to validate an integrity of one or more of the first electrical connection, the second electrical connection, and the third electrical connection. The monitoring device may be further operable to output an indication of the integrity of said electrical connections.

[0023] Validating an integrity of the electrical connections may comprise performing one or more measurements at the first, second and third locations. The one or more measurements may comprise one or more of: (i) measuring a current between the first location and the second location; (ii) measuring a resistance between the first location and the second location; (iii) measuring a voltage between the first location and the second location; (iv) measuring a voltage between the first location and the third location; (v) measuring a voltage between the second location and the third location.

[0024] The one or more measurements may be compared to one or more threshold values associated with the one or more measurements. If one of the one or more measurements fails to satisfy the associated threshold value, the monitoring device may determine that the integrity of the electrical connections is insufficient. If each of the one or more measurements satisfies the associated threshold value, the monitoring device may determine that the integrity of the electrical connections is sufficient. In some examples, satisfying a threshold value may comprise the measured value being higher than the threshold value. In some examples, satisfying a threshold value may comprise the measured value being lower than the threshold value. In some examples, satisfying a threshold value may comprise the measured value being within a predetermined deviation from the threshold value.

[0025] The indication of the integrity of the electrical connections may comprise one or more of an audible indication, a visual indication, a vibratory indication, or similar. An audible indication may comprise an audio tone or ‘beep’, or sequence of said tones or beeps. A visual indication may comprise one or more of an illuminated portion, an LED, a display, or similar. A vibratory indication may comprise a vibration or ‘buzz’, or a sequence of said vibrations or buzzes. In some examples, the device may be operable to connect to an external device, wherein the external device is operable to display the indication of the integrity of the electrical connection. The external device may comprise, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a server device, a multimeter, or similar. The device may be communicatively connected to the external device by a wired connection, or a wireless connection.

[0026] The device may further comprise at least one insulating blade, and an activation mechanism. The activation mechanism may be operable to cause the at least one insulating blade to remove a portion of the live conductor, said portion being between the first location and the second location. Removing the portion of the live conductor may be such that the electrical connection between the first location and the second location is maintained by means of the monitoring device, instead of the live conductor. The electrically insulating blade may comprise ceramic, or similar. In some examples, a single electrically insulting blade may be arranged to cut the live conductor in two cutting locations. In some examples, a first electrically insulating blade may be arranged to cut the live conductor at a first cutting location and a second electrically insulating blade may be arranged to cut the live conductor at a second cutting location. The activation mechanism may comprise a plunger element, arranged such that compression of the plunger element relative to the housing causes the activation mechanism to be operated. In some examples, an electrically insulating blade may be arranged to cut the live conductor at a single location, and the activation means may be further arranged to distort the portion of the live conductor adjacent the cut portion such that a first cut end is not positioned proximate a second cut end. This may comprise bending the portion of the live conductor.

[0027] In some examples, the activation mechanism may be further operable to secure the at least one insulating blade adjacent a cut end of the live conductor, such that the cut end of the live conductor is covered by the insulating blade. In some examples, a first insulating blade may be secured adjacent a first cut end of the live conductor, and a second insulating blade may be secured adjacent a second cut end of the live conductor. In some examples, the activation mechanism may be arranged to remain in an activated position after operation. For example, when operating the activation mechanism comprises compressing a plunger element, the activated position may comprise the plunger element remaining in the compressed position.

[0028] In some examples, the housing may further comprise an enclosed compartment arranged to secure the removed portion of the live conductor. The removed portion of the live conductor may be secured in the enclosed compartment by means of one or more portions of the activation mechanism. Where the activation mechanism comprises a plunger element arranged to remain in a compressed position after operation, the plunger element may secure the removed portion of the live conductor in the enclosed compartment. The enclosed compartment may be configured such that access to the removed portion of the live wire is prevented. In some examples, the housing may comprise an opening, the opening arranged to permit removal of the removed portion of the live conductor.

[0029] In some examples, the monitoring device may be further configured to measure one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current, and to communicate said one or more parameters to a secondary device. In some examples, the one or more parameters may comprise one or more of a current, a voltage, a resistance, an impedance, a power, a phase, a power factor, a frequency, or similar. The secondary device may comprise, for example, a smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop computer, a server device, a multimeter, or similar. In some examples, the monitoring device may be communicatively coupled to the secondary device by a wired connection. The wired connection may be a permanent wired connection, or a wired connection capable of being disconnected and reconnected to the secondary device. In some examples, the monitoring device may be communicatively coupled to the secondary device by a wireless connection. The wireless connection may use a wireless communication technology, such as, for example, one or more of Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Wi-Fi, a cellular network, a radiofrequency signal, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Thread, or similar. The monitoring device may comprise a data storage module, the data storage module configured to store measured values of the one or more parameters over a period of time.

[0030] Figures 1A and 1B show views of a device 100 for splicing into an electrical wire, in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 100 comprises a housing 102, with a lid 104 coupled to the housing 102. In some embodiments, the lid 104 is coupled to the housing 102 in a hinged arrangement. The housing 102 may further comprise a portion 106 arranged to house a monitoring device. The device 100 further comprises a first mechanism 112 at a first location, and a second mechanism 114 at a second location. Optionally, the device 100 may further comprise a third mechanism 116 at a third location.

[0031] The first mechanism 112 and the second mechanism 114 may be arranged proximate a first recessed portion 122 of the housing 102, the first recessed portion 122 configured to secure a live conductor of an electrical wire. The third mechanism 116 may be arranged proximate a second recessed portion 124 of the housing 102, the second recessed portion 124 configured to secure a neutral conductor of the electrical wire. The housing 102 may further comprise a third recessed portion 126, the third recessed portion 126 configured to secure an earth conductor of the electrical wire. In examples, the first mechanism 112 may comprise a first conductive blade positioned at a first location in the first recessed portion 122 of the housing 102. In examples, the second mechanism 114 may comprise a second conductive blade positioned at a second location in the first recessed portion 122 of the housing 102. In examples, the third mechanism 116 may be comprise a third conductive blade positioned at a third location in the second recessed portion 124 of the housing 102.

[0032] The device 100 further comprises an activation mechanism 130, such as a plunger element. The activation mechanism 130 is operable to cause at least one electrically insulating blade to remove a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location. The activation mechanism 130 may be positioned so as to interrupt a portion of the first recessed portion 122 when operated, causing the at least one electrically insulating blade to cut the live conductor in at least one location. In some embodiments, the lid 104 may comprise an aperture, the aperture arranged such that at least one portion of the activation mechanism 130 protrudes through the aperture when the lid 104 is secured to the housing 102.

[0033] Figure 2 shows a flowchart illustrating a method 200 of operation for a device for splicing into an electrical wire, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the device for splicing into an electrical wire may be similar to the device 100 of Figures 1A and 1B. At step 210, a portion of an electrical wire is secured in a housing. Securing the portion of the electrical wire in the housing may comprise positioning one or more conductors of the electrical wire in one or more recessed portions of the housing. At step 220, a lid is secured to the housing. Securing the lid to the housing may comprise attaching one or more portions of the lid to one or more corresponding portions of the housing. At step 230, a live conductor of the electrical wire is spliced at a first location and a second location, such that a first electrical connection with the live conductor is established at the first location, and a second electrical connection with the live conductor is established at the second location. The splicing of the live conductor at the first and second locations may be caused as a result of securing the lid to the housing, such that the act of securing the lid to the housing causes the splicing of the live conductor at the first and second locations. At step 240, an integrity of the first electrical connection and the second electrical connection may be validated. The validation of the first and second electrical connections may be performed by a monitoring device arranged in parallel with the live conductor. At step 250, an indication of the integrity may be output by the device. The output of the indication of the integrity may comprise one or more of an audible indication, a visual indication, or a vibratory indication. At step 260, a portion of the live conductor may be removed, the portion of the live conductor being located between the first location and the second location. Removal of the portion of the live conductor may comprise cutting the live conductor with at least one electrically insulating blade.

[0034] Figures 3A and 3B show views of a device 300 for splicing into an electrical wire, in accordance with further embodiments of the present disclosure. The device 300 comprises a housing 302, with a lid 304 coupled to the housing 302. In some embodiments, the lid 304 is coupled to the housing 302 in a hinged arrangement. The housing 302 may further comprise a portion 306 arranged to house a monitoring device. The device 300 further comprises a first mechanism 312 at a first location, and a second mechanism 314 at a second location. Optionally, the device 300 may further comprise a third mechanism 316 at a third location.

[0035] The first mechanism 312 and the second mechanism 314 may be arranged proximate a first recessed portion 322 of the housing 302, the first recessed portion 322 configured to secure a live conductor of an electrical wire. The third mechanism 316 may be arranged proximate a second recessed portion 324 of the housing 302, the second recessed portion 324 configured to secure a neutral conductor of the electrical wire. The housing 302 may further comprise a third recessed portion 326, the third recessed portion 326 configured to secure an earth conductor of the electrical wire.

[0036] In examples, the first mechanism may comprise a first conductive blade positioned at a first location in the first recessed portion 322 of the housing 302. In examples, the second mechanism 314 may comprise a second conductive blade positioned at a second location in the first recessed portion 322 of the housing 302. In examples, the third mechanism 316 may be comprise a third conductive blade positioned at a third location in the second recessed portion 324 of the housing 302. In some examples, the first mechanism 312 may comprise a fourth conductive blade positioned on a surface of the lid 304, at a position corresponding to that of the first conductive blade, such that when the lid 304 is secured to the housing 302, the fourth conductive blade is positioned proximate the first location and the first conductive blade. In some examples, the second mechanism 314 may comprise a fifth conductive blade positioned on a surface of the lid 304, at a position corresponding to that of the second conductive blade, such that when the lid 304 is secured to the housing 302, the fifth conductive blade is positioned proximate the second location and the second conductive blade. In some examples, the third mechanism 316 may comprise a sixth conductive blade positioned on a surface of the lid 304, at a position corresponding to that of the third conductive blade, such that when the lid 304 is secured to the housing 302, the sixth conductive blade is positioned proximate the third location and the third conductive blade.

[0037] The device 300 further comprises an activation mechanism 330, such as a plunger element. The activation mechanism 330 is operable to cause at least one electrically insulating blade to remove a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location. The activation mechanism 330 may be positioned so as to interrupt a portion of the first recessed portion 322 when operated, causing the at least one electrically insulating blade to cut the live conductor in at least one location. In examples, the lid 304 may comprise an aperture, wherein the activation mechanism 330 is coupled to the lid 304 such that a portion of the activation mechanism 330 protrudes through the aperture, and wherein securing the lid 304 to the housing 302 is operable to position the at least one electrically insulating blade proximate the portion of the live conductor. In some examples, the housing 302 may comprise an aperture, the aperture arranged such that at least one portion of the activation mechanism 330 is positioned in the aperture when the activation mechanism 330 is operated.

[0038] Embodiments and examples of the present disclosure provide a device for splicing into an electrical wire, comprising: a housing arranged to receive and secure a portion of an electrical wire carrying an electrical current; a lid coupled to the housing and operable to be secured to the housing so as to enclose the secured portion of the electrical wire; a first mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the first mechanism is operable to splice a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish a first electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location; a second mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the second mechanism is operable to splice the live conductor of the electrical wire at a second location to establish a second electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location; a monitoring device arranged in parallel with the live conductor, operable to validate an integrity of the first and second electrical connections and output an indication of the integrity of the electrical connections; at least one electrically insulating blade; and an activation mechanism operable to cause the at least one electrically insulating blade to remove a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location.

[0039] Some examples or embodiments further comprise a third mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the third mechanism is operable to splice a neutral conductor of the electrical wire at a third location to establish third electrical connection with the neutral conductor at the third location.

[0040] In some examples or embodiments the monitoring device is further to validate an integrity of the third electrical connection.

[0041] In some examples or embodiments at least one of the first, second and third mechanisms comprises a splicing blade, the splicing blade configured to penetrate an insulation surrounding the conductor and to establish electrical connection with the conductor.

[0042] In some examples or embodiments the splicing blade is electrically conductive.

[0043] In some examples or embodiments wherein the housing comprises a plurality of recessed channels arranged to receive at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

[0044] In some examples or embodiments the housing further comprises a retaining element, the retaining element arranged to secure the at least one conductor at a predefined location prior to securing the lid to the housing.

[0045] In some examples or embodiments securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for the electrical wire.

[0046] In some examples or embodiments securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

[0047] In some examples or embodiments securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for the electrical wire, and / or wherein securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

[0048] In some examples or embodiments the enclosing of the secured portion of the live electrical wire prevents access to the portion of the electrical wire carrying the electrical current.

[0049] In some examples or embodiments the monitoring device is operable to measure a current between the first location and the second location.

[0050] In some examples or embodiments the monitoring device is operable to measure a resistance between the first location and the second location.

[0051] In some examples or embodiments the monitoring device is operable to measure one or more of a current between the first location and the second location, and a resistance between the first location and the second location.

[0052] In some examples or embodiments the monitoring device is operable to measure a voltage between the third location and at least one of the first location and the second location.

[0053] In some examples or embodiments the activation mechanism comprises a plunger element.

[0054] In some examples or embodiments the housing further comprises an enclosed compartment arranged to secure the portion of the live conductor.

[0055] In some examples or embodiments the at least one insulating blade comprises ceramic.

[0056] In some examples or embodiments the at least one insulating blade comprises a first and second insulating blade.

[0057] In some examples or embodiments the activation mechanism is operable to secure the at least one insulating blade adjacent a cut end of the live conductor.

[0058] In some examples or embodiments the monitoring device is further configured to measure one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current, and to communicate the one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current to a secondary device.

[0059] Further examples and embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for splicing into an electrical wire, comprising: securing at least one portion of the electrical wire at a predefined location in an housing, the electrical wire carrying an electrical current; securing a lid to the housing so as to enclose the portion of the electrical wire, wherein securing the lid in the closed position is operable to: splice a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish a first electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location; splice the live conductor at a second location to establish a second electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location; validate an integrity of the first and second electrical connections; output an indication of the integrity of the electrical connections; removing a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location.

[0060] Some examples or embodiments further comprise splicing a neutral connector of the electrical wire at a third location to establish a third electrical connection with the neutral conductor at the third location.

[0061] Some examples or embodiments further comprise validating an integrity of the third electrical connection.

[0062] In some examples or embodiments splicing the conductor comprises penetrating an insulation surrounding the conductor to establish electrical connection with the conductor.

[0063] In some examples or embodiments the predefined location comprises a recessed channel arranged to receive a conductor of the electrical wire.

[0064] In some examples or embodiments securing the lid to the housing is further operable to provide strain relief for the electrical wire.

[0065] In some examples or embodiments securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

[0066] In some examples or embodiments securing the lid to the housing is further operable to provide strain relief for the electrical wire, and / or wherein securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

[0067] In some examples or embodiments validating the integrity of the connections comprises measuring a current between the first location and the second location, and a resistance between the first location and the second location.

[0068] In some examples or embodiments validating the integrity of the connections comprises measuring a resistance between the first location and the second location.

[0069] In some examples or embodiments validating the integrity of the connections comprises measuring one or more of a current between the first location and the second location, and a resistance between the first location and the second location.

[0070] In some examples or embodiments validating the integrity of the connections comprises measuring a voltage between the third location and at least one of the first location and the second location.

[0071] In some examples or embodiments removing a portion of the live conductor comprises depressing an activation mechanism.

[0072] In some examples or embodiments depressing the activation mechanism is operable to secure at least one insulating blade adjacent a cut end of the live conductor.

[0073] In some examples or embodiments the at least one insulating blade comprises a ceramic blade.

[0074] In some examples or embodiments depressing the activation mechanism is operable to secured the portion of the live conductor in an enclosed compartment of the housing.

[0075] Some examples or embodiments further comprise measuring one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current, and to communicating the one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current to a secondary device.

[0076] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be combined in any combination, except combinations where some features are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification, including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent, or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed in one example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0077] The present teachings are not restricted to the details of any of the foregoing examples. Any novel combination of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract, and drawings) may be envisaged. The claims should not be construed to cover merely the foregoing examples, but also any variants which fall within the scope of the claims. 19 06 24

Claims

1. A device for splicing into an electrical wire, comprising:a housing arranged to receive and secure a portion of an electrical wire carrying an electrical current;a lid coupled to the housing and operable to be secured to the housing so as to enclose the secured portion of the electrical wire;a first mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the first mechanism is operable to penetrate an insulation surrounding a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish a first electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location;a second mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the second mechanism is operable to penetrate the insulation surrounding the live conductor of the electrical wire at a second location to establish a second electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location;a monitoring device arranged in parallel with the live conductor, operable to validate an electrical integrity of the first and second electrical connections and output an indication of the electrical integrity of the electrical connections;at least one electrically insulating blade; andan activation mechanism operable to cause the at least one electrically insulating blade to remove a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location.

2. The device of claim 1, further comprising a third mechanism, wherein when the lid is secured to the housing the third mechanism is operable to penetrate an insulation surrounding a neutral conductor of the electrical wire at a third location to establish third electrical connection with the neutral conductor at the third location.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the monitoring device is further to validate an electrical integrity of the third electrical connection.19 06 244. The device of claims 2 or 3, wherein the third mechanism comprises an electrically conductive splicing blade.

5. The device of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the first and second mechanisms comprises an electrically conductive splicing blade.

6. The device of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the housing comprises a plurality of recessed channels arranged to receive at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

7. The device of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the housing further comprises a retaining element, the retaining element arranged to secure the at least one conductor at a predefined location prior to securing the lid to the housing.

8. The device of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for the electrical wire, and / or wherein securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

9. The device of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the enclosing of the secured portion of the live electrical wire prevents access to the portion of the electrical wire carrying the electrical current.

10. The device of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the monitoring device is operable to measure one or more of a current between the first location and the second location, and a resistance between the first location and the second location.

11. The device of any of claims 1 to 10, wherein the monitoring device is operable to measure a voltage between the third location and at least one of the first location and the second location.

12. The device of any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the activation mechanism comprises a plunger element.19 06 2413. The device of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the housing further comprises an enclosed compartment arranged to secure the portion of the live conductor.

14. The device of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the at least one insulating blade comprises ceramic.

15. The device of any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the at least one insulating blade comprises a first and second insulating blade.

16. The device of any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the activation mechanism is operable to secure the at least one insulating blade adjacent a cut end of the live conductor.

17. The device of any of claims 1 to 16, wherein the monitoring device is further configured to measure one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current, and to communicate the one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current to a secondary device.

18. A method for splicing into an electrical wire, comprising:securing at least one portion of the electrical wire at a predefined location in an housing, the electrical wire carrying an electrical current;securing a lid to the housing so as to enclose the portion of the electrical wire, wherein securing the lid in the closed position is operable to:penetrate an insulation surrounding a live conductor of the electrical wire at a first location to establish a first electrical connection with the live conductor at the first location;penetrate the insulation surrounding the live conductor at a second location to establish a second electrical connection with the live conductor at the second location;validate an electrical integrity of the first and second electrical connections;output an indication of the electrical integrity of the electrical connections;19 06 24removing a portion of the live conductor, the portion of the live conductor being between the first location and the second location.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising penetrating an insulation surrounding a neutral connector of the electrical wire at a third location to establish a third electrical connection with the neutral conductor at the third location.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising validating an electrical integrity of the third electrical connection.

21. The method of any of claims 18 to 20, wherein the predefined location comprises a recessed channel arranged to receive a conductor of the electrical wire.

22. The method of any of claims 18 to 21, wherein securing the lid to the housing is further operable to provide strain relief for the electrical wire, and / or wherein securing the lid to the housing is further arranged to provide strain relief for at least one conductor of the electrical wire.

23. The method of any of claims 18 to 22, wherein validating the electrical integrity of the connections comprises measuring one or more of a current between the first location and the second location, and a resistance between the first location and the second location.

24. The method of any of claims 18 to 23, wherein validating the electrical integrity of the connections comprises measuring a voltage between the third location and at least one of the first location and the second location.

25. The method of any of claims 18 to 24, wherein removing a portion of the live conductor comprises depressing an activation mechanism.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein depressing the activation mechanism is operable to secure at least one insulating blade adjacent a cut end of the live conductor.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the at least one insulating blade comprises a ceramic blade.

28. The method of any of claims 25 to 27, wherein depressing the activation mechanism is operable to secured the portion of the live conductor in an enclosed compartment of the housing.

29. The method of any of claims 18 to 28, further comprising measuring one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current, and to communicating the one or more parameters associated with the electrical wire carrying the electrical current to a secondary device.

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