Apparatus and method for preventing power outages

Abstract

Provided herein is an apparatus for preventing power outages. Also provided is a method for coating a transformer with an insulator coating. In various exemplary embodiments, the apparatus includes an insulator configured to prevent electrically charged animals or debris from contacting the ground surface of the transformer.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] (CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 17 / 933,997, filed September 21, 2022, and claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application No. 17 / 933,997, filed September 21, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 374,747, filed September 6, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 271,210, filed October 24, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 246,783, filed September 21, 2021, all of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

[0002] BACKGROUND OF THEINVENTION This section is intended to introduce various aspects of the art that may be related to example embodiments of the present disclosure. The following discussion is believed to be helpful in providing a framework to facilitate a better understanding of certain aspects of the present disclosure. As such, it should be understood that this section is to be read in this light, and not necessarily as admissions of prior art.

[0003] The present concept relates to the field of power outage protection. In particular, the present invention relates to the prevention of power outages caused by wildlife and weather. [Background technology]

[0004] A common problem for electric power companies are outages that occur when a foreign object or animal comes into contact with an energized power line, bushing, or other component of an electrical system and becomes grounded, such as by contact with the top of a transformer. Once grounded, the energized object or animal can cause a short circuit and ultimately a power outage that can affect many homes and businesses. Such outages are associated with significant financial damages due to the temporary loss of power to end users, the labor costs involved in locating, determining the cause of, and restoring the outage, and the legal costs associated with lawsuits from disgruntled customers.

[0005] In addition to the economic damage, power outages caused by such animals can also result in animals dying after experiencing electrocution.

[0006] Current solutions don't adequately address the problem. For example, covering the bushings is not effective at preventing larger animals like cats, raccoons, possums, and bears, all of which are adept climbers and large enough to reach the tops of transformers and onto the wiring. If one of these animals touches the wiring and energizes it, it quickly creates a short circuit, which can lead to a power outage.

[0007] Alternative solutions offer no protection from the weather and are prone to damage or reduced electrical resistance when wet. Additionally, current solutions can easily become dislodged from their intended locations, resulting in frequent failure of protective devices and making them an ineffective solution to power outages. Current designs to address wildlife and weather-related outages are also inadequate for long-term use and often become brittle or damaged over time, requiring frequent replacement and maintenance.

[0008] Finally, current solutions are difficult or extremely dangerous to install on existing grids and require temporary grid shutdowns during installation, again causing consumer dissatisfaction and reduced revenue. Additionally, current solutions, if deployed in a timely manner, increase labor costs. As such, current insulation and wildlife deterrents are not viable and economical options for solving the focal problem of outages caused by short circuits caused by foreign objects and animals.

[0009] Therefore, there is a strong demand for a device that can effectively prevent power outages caused by animals or debris of any size, is weather resistant and durable, and can be easily and quickly installed without disconnecting the power source from the installation site. Summary of the Invention

[0010] Disclosed herein are examples of devices for preventing power outages. In various embodiments, the devices include an insulator that includes a non-conductive material and a bushing port and is configured to completely cover a top surface of a transformer. The insulator can be configured to prevent electrically charged animals or debris from contacting the ground surface of the transformer.

[0011] In some embodiments, the insulator is configured so that it can be safely installed on a live transformer without de-energizing the transformer, hi some embodiments, the insulator has an open configuration that is removable from the transformer and a closed configuration that is secured onto a bushing that extends through a bushing port.

[0012] In an embodiment, the animals include mammals, reptiles, birds, or combinations thereof. The debris may include foreign objects or debris caused by accidental human contact, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, criminal acts, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the mammals include primates, rodents, raccoons, felines, bears, marsupials, or combinations thereof. The birds include owls, birds of prey, waterfowl, silver doves, pigeons, parrots, parakeets, cockatoos, pelicans, gulls, hawks, eagles, falcons, vultures, sparrows, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the reptiles include snakes, lizards, or combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, the primates include humans, monkeys, chimpanzees, gorillas, or orangutans, or combinations thereof. The rodents may include squirrels, mice, rats, or combinations thereof. The felines may include domestic cats, wild cats, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, marsupials include opossums.

[0013] In various embodiments, the apparatus further comprises a connector assembly and a means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer. The means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer may include a latch, a buckle, a clamp, a catch, a side release buckle, a carabiner, a snap fit, a friction fit, a hook and loop connector (e.g., a Velcro connector), a button and eye, a cam lock, a post and keyhole, a press fit, a screw lock, a snap, a spring loaded pin, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer secures the insulator to itself.

[0014] In embodiments, the non-conductive material includes paper, glass, fiberglass, fabric, rubber, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, wood, quartz, diamond, or combinations thereof.

[0015] The insulator may include a sidewall configured to extend downwardly over a portion of at least one side of the transformer, hi an embodiment, the insulator is configured to rest on a top surface of the transformer by gravity.

[0016] In certain embodiments, the device includes a housing configured to enclose at least one bushing, which can be configured to rest on the insulator, rest by gravity, reversibly attach to the insulator, or be integral with the insulator.

[0017] In various embodiments, the insulator includes at least one bushing port including a hole, gap, notch, channel, or combination thereof extending therethrough, the bushing port having a configuration complementary to that of the at least one bushing, configured to allow the at least one bushing to extend through the insulator. The at least one bushing port can have a customizable size, a customizable shape, or a combination thereof. In such embodiments, the insulator can include a means for selecting a customizable size, a customizable shape, or a combination thereof, the customizable size and the customizable shape being complementary to the bushing such that the bushing can extend through the insulator. In embodiments, the selection means includes a perforation forming a perimeter of the customizable size and the customizable shape, a threaded portion configured to reversibly secure the customizable size and the customizable shape with a complementary thread, or a combination thereof. In embodiments, the device includes up to 20 bushing ports.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the apparatus of claim 1 has an insulator shaped, sized, and configured to fit any commercially available transformer. The insulator may have a thickness of about 1 / 32 inch to about 1 / 2 inch. In embodiments, the insulator may have a thickness of about 1 / 16 inch to about 1 / 4 inch. The insulator may have a thickness of about 1 / 8 inch.

[0019] The insulator may have a surface area sufficient to cover the top of a transformer having a kilovolt (KV) rating of about 1 KV or greater. In embodiments, the insulator may have a surface area sufficient to cover the top of a transformer having a rating of up to about 1000 KV. The insulator may have a surface area sufficient to cover the top of a transformer having a rating of any one or more of about 1 KV, about 5 KV, about 10 KV, about 15 KV, about 25 KV, about 37.5 KV, about 50 KV, about 75 KV, about 100 KV. In certain embodiments, the insulator has a diameter or length ranging from about 1 inch to about 1,000 inches. In some embodiments, the transformer is mounted on a utility pole and is operable to step down voltage from a standard three-phase overhead transmission system to residential voltages.

[0020] In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of applying an insulation coating to a transformer. In an embodiment, the method includes pumping a fluid insulation coating into a coating apparatus such that the fluid insulation coating flows through the coating apparatus, passing at least one surface of the transformer under or through the coating apparatus such that the fluid insulation coating is applied to the at least one surface of the transformer, and drying the fluid insulation coating on the at least one surface of the transformer. In one embodiment, the method includes repeating the step of passing the at least one surface of the transformer under or through the coating apparatus at least once, at least twice, at least three times, at least four times, at least five times, at least six times, at least seven times, at least eight times, at least nine times, or at least ten times. In one embodiment, the step of passing the at least one surface of the transformer under or through the coating apparatus is repeated a sufficient number of times until the insulation coating has a thickness of about 1 / 32 inch to a maximum of about 1 / 2 inch. In certain embodiments, the insulation coating has a uniform consistency and thickness across the entire surface of the transformer. In some embodiments, insulation is manufactured according to this process.

[0021] In some embodiments, the non-conductive material is tapered or convex at the top of the transformer. Additionally or alternatively, the non-conductive material may be cone-shaped.

[0022] In some embodiments, the bushing port is at the top of the insulator. In some embodiments, the opening of the bushing port is designed to fit snugly around the outer or inner diameter of the bushing. In some embodiments, the transformer is configured to be attached to the bushing port of the transformer and does not need to be separately secured to the transformer.

[0023] In some embodiments, the insulator is marked for material removal corresponding to the additional bushings, hi some embodiments, the insulator has drilled bushing ports removable from the insulator corresponding to the location of the additional bushings.

[0024] In some embodiments, the transformer has two flaps that are fastened together around the bushing port. Additionally or alternatively, the insulator can have two sides that are fastened together around the bushing port.

[0025] In some embodiments, a spacer extends from a lower or inner surface of the insulator to define an insulating gap between the lower surface of the insulator and the upper surface of the transformer.

[0026] Also described herein is an example method for retrofitting an installed transformer with a metal casing. The method includes providing an insulator with bushing ports and side walls, and positioning and securing the insulator on top of the casing of the installed transformer until the insulator covers the top of the installed transformer, the bushing ports provide access to the bushings of the transformer, and the side walls extend laterally down from the top of the installed transformer. Additionally or alternatively, the method can include removing the insulator from the installed transformer, connecting wires to the installed transformer, and reinstalling the insulator on the installed transformer with the bushing ports providing access from the wires to the bushings. Additionally or alternatively, the method can include drilling additional bushing ports in the insulator, the positioning and securing including providing access to additional bushings of the installed transformer through the additional bushing ports. In some embodiments, the method includes placing left and right portions of the insulator around different sides of the bushing prior to fastening the insulator around the installed transformer in the placing and fastening step, hi some embodiments, the method includes fastening the insulator to itself with a fastener in the placing and fastening step.

[0027] In some embodiments, the dielectric coating includes at least one of Parylene N, Parylene C, acrylic, epoxy, silicone, urethane, In some embodiments, the dielectric coating is a fast curing insulating foam having sufficient dielectric constant and thickness. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0028] In order to allow a better understanding of the present invention, certain figures, photographs, charts and / or flow charts are attached hereto. However, it should be noted that the drawings show only selected embodiments of the present invention and should not be considered as limiting its scope. Thus, the present invention may admit of other similarly effective embodiments and applications. Reference numerals may be repeated as necessary to highlight various features, but their absence should not be interpreted as the absence of features. Moreover, the same reference numerals may be used throughout the embodiments for similar features, even if such features are not identical. [Figure 1] 1 shows a side view of an overhead power transmission system including an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which an insulator can be seen covering the top of the transformer and two bushings extending upward through the insulator. [Figure 2A] 2A shows a side view of an overhead power transmission system including an apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention, in which an insulator can be seen covering the top surface of a transformer, and the apparatus further includes a housing that encloses a bushing. [Figure 2B] 2B shows a top view of an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment, the housing includes a lattice that forms a cage to prevent animal access to the top surface of the bushings. Under the lattice, two bushings can be seen. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 shows a top view of one embodiment of the device. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3B shows a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3C] FIG. 3B shows a side perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3D] FIG. 3B shows a side view of the embodiment of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of another exemplary embodiment of insulation on a transformer. [Figure 4B] 4B shows a top view of the left and right portions of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4C] 4B shows a bottom view of the left and right portions of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4D]4B shows the outside of the left portion of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4G] 4B shows the inside of the left portion of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4E] 4B shows the outside of the right portion of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4F] 4B shows the inside of the right portion of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4H] 4B shows a rear view of the left and right portions of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4I] 4B shows a front view of the left and right portions of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Figure 4J] FIG. 4B is a cross-sectional view taken toward the rear of the left portion of the embodiment of FIG. 4A. [Diagram 5] 4B shows an example of a method for attaching an insulator similar to that shown in FIG. 4A. [Figure 6A] 1 illustrates an assembled configuration of another exemplary embodiment of an insulator. [Figure 6B] 1 illustrates an open configuration of another exemplary embodiment of an insulator. [Figure 7A] FIG. 13 illustrates a perspective view of another exemplary embodiment having a flat top surface in an assembled configuration. [Figure 7B] 7B shows a top perspective exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 7A. [Figure 7C] 7B shows a bottom perspective exploded view of the embodiment of FIG. 7A. [Figure 8] 7B shows a template for material removal in the embodiment of FIG. 7A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0029] Herein, one or more preferred embodiments are described in detail. However, it should be understood that the present invention can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the specific details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to use the present invention in any suitable manner.

[0030] definition The singular forms "a" and "the" include the plural unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The use of the term "a" in conjunction with the term "comprising" in the claims and / or specification may mean "one," but also means "one or more," "at least one," or "one or more."

[0031] Whenever words such as "for example," "such as," "including," and the like are used herein, they are understood to be followed by the phrase "without being limited to," unless expressly stated otherwise. Similarly, "examples," "exemplary," and the like are intended to be non-limiting.

[0032] The term "substantially" allows for deviations from the described words without adversely affecting the intended purpose. The described words are understood to be modified by the term "substantially" even if the word "substantially" is not explicitly mentioned. Thus, for example, the phrase "the lever extends vertically" means "the lever extends substantially vertically" unless a precisely vertical orientation is necessary for the lever to perform its function.

[0033] Terms such as "comprising," "including," "having," and "involving" (as well as "comprising," "including," "having," "involving") are used interchangeably and have the same meaning. Specifically, each term is defined consistent with the general U.S. patent law definition of "comprising," and is therefore to be interpreted as an open-ended term meaning "at least the following," and not excluding additional features, limitations, etc. Thus, for example, "a process comprising steps a, b, and c" means that the process includes at least steps a, bc. Whenever the term "a" is used, it is understood to mean "one or more," unless such an interpretation is insignificant in the context.

[0034] As used herein, "about" means roughly, in the region of, roughly, or in the region of. When the term "about" is used in conjunction with a numerical range, it modifies that range by expanding the boundaries above and below the numerical values ​​set forth. In this context, "about" generally means to modify numerical values ​​above and below the set forth value by 20 percent (higher or lower).

[0035] For purposes of this disclosure, spatially relative terms such as "top", "bottom", "right", "left", "lower", "below", "lower side", "upper", and the like may be used for ease of description to describe the relationship of an element or feature to another element or features as shown in the various figures. However, it should be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is flipped or rotated, an element described as "below" or "below" another element or feature will be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary term "below" may encompass both a top and a bottom orientation. The device may be in other orientations (90 degrees or other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0036] As used herein, "transformer" may refer to a commercially available transformer or a custom manufactured transformer. For example, transformers may include step-up transformers, step-down transformers, power transformers, distribution transformers, potential transformers including current transformers and potential transformers, single-phase transformers, three-phase transformers, autotransformers, or any combination thereof. Transformers include transformers useful in overhead transmission systems, underground transmission systems, or combinations thereof.

[0037] As used herein, "non-conductive material" may refer to a material that blocks or reduces the flow of electrons from one surface to another. Non-limiting examples of non-conductive materials may include rubber, plastic, paper, glass, porcelain, ceramic, or any other material now known or later developed that is effective in impeding the flow of electrons.

[0038] As used herein, "animal" may refer to any living organism large enough to short out an electrical power supply system. "Animals" may include mammals, reptiles, birds, or combinations thereof.

[0039] "Debris" as used herein may include any inanimate foreign object large enough to short out an electrical power supply system. Examples of debris include kites, drones, toy helicopters, balls, balloons, or other objects that may accidentally come into contact with a transformer. "Debris" may also include any object that is intentionally directed to disrupt electrical power supply, such as a crime or terrorist attack. "Debris" may further include debris that may come into contact with electrical power lines during or immediately after a natural disaster, such as a hurricane, tornado, or other natural disaster. "Neat fit" as used herein refers to an opening that fits snugly into another feature, such that debris cannot enter between the opening and the feature, but may allow for a tolerance between the opening and the feature.

[0040] Description of Selected Specific Embodiments Provided herein is an apparatus configured to prevent power outages. In various exemplary embodiments, the apparatus includes an insulator configured to prevent electrically charged animals or debris from contacting a ground plane of a transformer.

[0041] FIG. 1 shows a typical three-phase overhead power transmission system with a power interruption protection insulator 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, a transformer 510 is seen supported on a utility pole with two bushings 520 extending upward from the top of the transformer. One bushing and the transformer are shown connected to the B phase and primary neutral conductors of the power system, respectively, such that the system is energized and the transformer serves as the potential ground for the energized system. As shown in FIG. 1, the insulator 100 covers the entire top surface of the transformer 510, thereby forming an effective barrier to prevent a short circuit event from occurring if an animal or debris becomes energized, such as by contact with cables or other energized conductors that are part of the power transmission system.

[0042] FIG. 2A shows a standard three-phase overhead power transmission system with a power interruption protection insulator 100 according to another embodiment of the present invention. In this figure, a transformer 510 is supported on a utility pole, and two bushings 520 can be seen extending upward from the top of the transformer. One bushing and the transformer are shown connected to the B phase and primary neutral of the power system, respectively, so that the system is energized and the transformer serves as the potential ground for the energized system. As shown in FIG. 1, the insulator 100 covers the entire top surface of the transformer 510, thereby forming an effective barrier to prevent a short circuit event from occurring if an animal or debris becomes energized, such as by contact with a cable or other energized conductor that is part of the power transmission system. The embodiment of FIG. 2A further includes an enclosure 150 that surrounds the bushings 520 to further prevent contact with animals and debris. In this embodiment, the housing 150 includes a top surface and side walls that extend downwardly therefrom and connect to the insulator 100 without significant gaps or openings, further protecting the power distribution system from short circuit events.

[0043] 2B shows a top view of one embodiment of the invention installed on a transformer. Note that in this view, the view of the transformer is obstructed by the insulator 100, which is shown resting on the top surface of the transformer. Here, the entire top surface of the insulator 100 is visible below a grid, cage, or guard 151 that forms the top surface of the housing 150. Two bushings 520 are also visible below the grid, cage, or guard 151. In this embodiment, the grid, cage, or guard 151 comprises a grid-like structure that allows an electrical cable to contact the bushings 520.

[0044] 2 may be reversibly attached to the insulator 100 or may be integral with the insulator 100. In an embodiment, the housing 150 is snapped or screwed into place around the bushing and bonded to the insulator 100.

[0045] FIG. 3A is a top view of the top surface 201 of an insulator 200 according to one embodiment of the invention. The illustrated insulator 200 includes a bushing port 225 extending therethrough in the form of a hole, gap, notch, channel, or combination thereof. The insulator of the embodiment of FIG. 3 further includes a connector assembly 207 that allows the insulator to be easily installed and secured to the top surface of a transformer. In this embodiment, the connector assembly 207 includes overlapping flaps, a top flap 209 and a bottom flap (shown at 211 in FIG. 3B), that function to help form a continuous barrier to prevent contact with the top surface of the transformer from energized animals and debris.

[0046] 3B is a bottom view showing the bottom surface 203 of the insulator 200. In this embodiment, the insulator 200 includes a sidewall 205 that extends downward from the top surface of the insulator 200. In operation, the sidewall 205 can function to prevent at least a portion of the transformer side from contacting an energized animal (such as via a dangling tail or feet that may contact the side of the transformer). In an embodiment, the sidewall 205 can extend up to about 1 / 10 of the length of the transformer side. The sidewall 205 can extend up the entire side of the transformer. In a particular embodiment, the sidewall 205 extends up to about half of the side of the transformer. The side wall 205 may extend over about 1 / 16, about 1 / 8, about 3 / 16, about 1 / 4, about 5 / 16, about 3 / 8, about 7 / 16, about 1 / 2, about 9 / 16, about 5 / 8, about 11 / 16, about 3 / 4, about 13 / 16, or about 7 / 16 of the side of the transformer. It can be configured to extend up to 8.

[0047] 3B, the connector assembly 207 may further include a means 210 for reversibly securing the insulator 200 to the transformer. As shown, the means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer may include a hook-and-loop strap 210. In alternative embodiments, the means for reversibly securing the insulator 200 to the transformer 210 may include a latch, buckle, clamp, clasp, side release buckle, carabiner, snap fit, friction fit, hook, button and eye, cam lock, post and keyhole, press fit, screw lock, snap, spring loaded pin, other attachment means known in the art, or combinations thereof.

[0048] In this embodiment, the means for reversibly fastening the insulator 210 is seen at the end of the bottom flap 211 of the connector assembly 207. However, the means for reversibly fastening the insulator 210 to the transformer may be located anywhere on the insulator 200. In an embodiment, the means for attaching the insulator 200 to the transformer may be located on the insulator, on the transformer, or both. As an example, the transformer may have male snaps and the insulator may have female snaps, or vice versa, to allow for alignment of the snaps to effectively couple the insulator to the transformer. Alternative attachment means as disclosed herein may be applied in a similar manner.

[0049] In various embodiments, the insulator and the transformer can be quickly coupled by the connector assembly 207. The connector assembly 207 can be configured to allow installation of the insulator 200 in an energized system. For example, the insulator 200 can be safely installed by a lineman without requiring a temporary shutdown of the electrical system or other period of power outage. Embodiments are configured to allow installation of the insulator 200 in less than five minutes. In embodiments, the insulator 200 can be installed in less than one minute. In embodiments, the connector assembly 207 allows installation of the insulator 200 without the need for tools.

[0050] FIG. 3C shows a side perspective view of the insulator 200 according to the embodiment of FIG. 3A, and FIG. 3D shows a side view thereof. These views show the sidewall 205 of the insulator 200. Additionally, it can be seen that the top surface 201 of the insulator 200 can have an angled or shaped configuration. Alternative configurations are also included in the present disclosure. As an example, the insulator can be configured to be compatible for use with any of a variety of transformers currently on the market or later developed that allow the insulator 200 to provide a tight, continuous seal around the top of the transformer. Additionally, the insulator 200 can be configured to provide a tight, continuous seal around the sides of the transformer.

[0051] Although the shape of the insulator 200 in FIG. 3 is generally conical or circular, in alternative embodiments, the insulator 200 has any shape. In embodiments, the shape may be elliptical, circular, or polygonal. In certain embodiments, the shape of the insulator 200 may include a rhombus, a parallelogram, or a trapezoid. The shape of the insulator 200 may also include a triangle, a square, a rectangle, a pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, a nonagon, a decagon, a circle, an ellipse, a semicircle, or a quadrant. In certain embodiments, the insulator has a shape that includes one or more arcs, parabolas, or hyperbolas.

[0052] 4A-4E, insulator 300 is made up of two pieces, a left portion 320 and a right portion 340, which are assembled on top of transformer 510 to protect transformer 510. Similar to insulator 100, insulator 300 has a bushing port 325, a sidewall 305, a top surface 301, and a bottom surface 303.

[0053] Optional rotatable pin hinge left and right portions 318, 319 allow the insulator 300 to pivot open and close from one end, and optional fasteners 313 (male 314 and female 316) on the other end. Each side has optional flanges 312 with optional slots 312 useful for fastening the left and right portions together, or that the lineman can use to attach other objects. Cable ties, other connectors, or fasteners can be used through these slots 312. The slots 312 are shown rectangular in shape, but could be circular, square, hexagonal, octagonal, or any other shape. Additionally or alternatively, the insulator 300 can be optionally secured by means 210.

[0054] In addition to or instead of the flange 310 with slot 312 described above, a clip 360 may be used, as shown in another exemplary embodiment of an insulator 350 in FIGS. 6A and 6B.

[0055] This embodiment has an optional transformer spacer 344 that can be placed directly on top of the transformer. This spacer is useful for creating an insulating gap between the top of the transformer and the bottom of the insulator. This allows for a thinner material for the insulator. Additionally, the spacer can be laid flat on a surface, allowing the insulator to stay in place if it encounters animals or inclement weather. Additionally, the spacer can provide structural strength to the insulator.

[0056] This embodiment also has an optional undercut lip 342 extending from the sidewall 305 that can help minimize potential gaps between the insulator 300 and the transformer 510 to prevent objects from entering through the gap. As used herein, "undercut" refers to a shape (e.g., rock with a bottom eroded by a river) and not a manufacturing process step. Additionally, the sidewall and undercut lip of the insulator can help secure the insulator to accommodate the upper lip 515 of the transformer.

[0057] The exemplary bushing port 325 of the insulators 300, 350 is sized with a clearance to the inner diameter of the ceramic insulator of the bushing, while the exemplary bushing port 425 is sized with a clearance to the outer diameter of the ceramic insulator of the bushing. A smaller size is better at preventing debris ingress, but a larger size allows more flexibility in the location of the insulator relative to the bushing. Any of these sizes or others may be employed. Optionally, an insulating sealant may be used to prevent debris from ingressing through the bushing port into the transformer area.

[0058] Another exemplary embodiment is insulator 350, FIG. 6A-6B, which is similar to insulator 300, except that instead of flange 310 on top surface 301 of insulator 300, insulator 350 has an optional clip or clips 360 that can be used to secure the left and right portions together. FIG. 6A shows the left and right portions of insulator 350 assembled, held together by clip 360 and fastener 313. Clip 360 can reversibly secure the left and right portions together using surface friction, a recess that captures the clip, a detent, or other methods. Alternatively, it can be substituted for connector assembly 207 of insulator 200.

[0059] 7A-7C show another example insulator 400 with flat top surface 401 and flat bottom surface 403. As shown in FIGS. 7A-7C, the flange 310 of this example insulator 400 may optionally extend the length of the insulator 400 from the undercut lip 342 onto the top surface 401 (or bottom surface 403) until it again reaches the undercut lip 320. The insulator 400 includes a differently shaped transformer top spacer 344.

[0060] 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment having different pre-defined bushing locations 450, which allows linemen to remove material at pre-defined locations to adapt the insulator to different brands and models of transformers.

[0061] Additionally, the insulators may have holes or other attachment mechanisms such as hook-ups for a lineman's belt, carabiner, or boom / lift bucket to facilitate ease of transportation and access and to prevent the insulators from being accidentally lost, such as connection means 210. Alternatively, flange slots may be used for this purpose.

[0062] In embodiments, the insulator can be configured to fit over the top of a commercially available or custom transformer. In embodiments, the insulator is configured to completely cover the top of a transformer having a kilovolt (KV) rating of about 1 KV or greater. In embodiments, the insulator is configured to cover the entire top of a transformer having a rating of less than 1 KV. The insulator can have a surface area sufficient to cover the top of a transformer having a KV rating of up to about 1,000 KV. In certain embodiments, the insulator is configured to cover the top of a transformer having a KV rating of 1,000 KV or greater. Without being bound by theory, the insulator may be configured to cover the top of a transformer rated at 5,000 KV.

[0063] The insulator has a diameter or length of about 1 inch to about 1,000 inches. In certain embodiments, the insulator has a diameter or length of up to about 50 inches. The diameter or length of the insulator can be about 5 inches, about 10 inches, about 15 inches, about 20 inches, about 25 inches, about 30 inches, about 35 inches.

[0064] The insulator may have any thickness sufficient to reduce or block the flow of electrons across the insulator. In embodiments, the insulator has a thickness of about 1 / 32 inch to 1 / 2 inch (inclusive). The thickness of the insulator may be less than 1 / 32 inch. In embodiments, the insulator has a thickness of greater than 1 inch.

[0065] The bushing ports can be configured to allow a bushing to extend through the insulator. The insulator can include one or more bushing ports. In various embodiments, the insulator includes between 1 and 20 bushing ports. In embodiments, the insulator includes up to 10 bushing ports. The insulator can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 bushing ports.

[0066] In embodiments, any one or more of the number, configuration, size, and shape of the bushing ports may be customizable. In embodiments, the insulator is configured to allow the number, configuration, size, or shape of the bushing ports to be customizable by the lineman at the installation site. The insulator may include a means for selecting the customizable size and shape of the bushing ports. Such means may, in embodiments, include removable portions of the insulator, the size and shape of which may be changed depending on the size and shape of the bushing or transformer. In certain embodiments, the insulator has perforations at least partially through the insulator that outline different sizes, shapes, and locations of the different bushing ports such that the lineman can "punch" or remove material to form the bushing ports at specific sizes and locations immediately prior to installation of the insulator. Such a configuration allows the lineman to accurately install the insulator on a multitude of transformer and bushing configurations without the need for pre-setting. In certain embodiments, the removable portion may comprise a threaded attachment that can be screwed on and off depending on the needs of the lineman, the transformer configuration, the bushing configuration, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the removable portion may comprise a template that is printed or embossed on the surface to allow the lineman to cut out the bushing ports in the correct locations. The template configurations may be pre-specified to correspond to the location and size of bushings for various brands and models, allowing the lineman to review the brand and model and customize the insulation for a particular transformer on-the-fly.

[0067] In embodiments, the insulator is comprised of a non-conductive material. The insulator may be comprised of a material that is highly durable and resistant to aging. In embodiments, the insulator is effective to reduce or eliminate power outages for up to five years. Without being bound by theory, the insulator may be effective to reduce or eliminate power outages for up to about 10 years, up to about 20 years, up to about 30 years, up to about 40 years, or up to about 50 years. The material may be configured to withstand exposure to the elements, including hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, or other severe weather, for any of the various times described herein. In various embodiments, the insulator is water resistant to prevent water from passing through the insulator. The insulator is substantially waterproof to prevent water ingress from causing power outages. Additionally or alternatively, the bottom of the insulator is open to allow rainwater or melting snow to drain away. The insulator may be configured to be heat resistant and may be comprised of a substantially fire resistant material.

[0068] In certain embodiments, the insulators are lightweight and can be transported up the pole. The insulators can be easily installed from a bucket truck or the like, as they can be handled by a single lineman. The insulators can weigh less than 30 pounds. In embodiments, the insulators weigh less than 20 pounds. The insulators may weigh less than 10 pounds. In embodiments, the insulators weigh about 10 pounds, about 9 pounds, about 8 pounds, about 7 pounds, about 6 pounds, about 5 pounds, about 4 pounds, about 3 pounds, about 2 pounds, or about 1 pound. In certain embodiments, the insulators weigh less than about 1 pound. The insulators may weigh about 0.1 pounds, about 0.2 pounds, about 0.3 pounds, about 0.4 pounds, about 0.5 pounds, about 0.6 pounds, about 0.7 pounds, about 0.8 pounds, or about 0.9 pounds.

[0069] The insulators may be configured to be installed after purchase or may be configured to be installed on the transformer during manufacture of the transformer. In embodiments, the insulators are configured to be placed on the transformer prior to final installation of the transformer. The insulators may also be configured to be placed around a transformer already in use.

[0070] Insulation is optional and applied at the factory.

[0071] The insulation may include a coating. In one embodiment, the insulation coating is applied to at least one surface of the transformer. In one embodiment, the insulation coating is applied to a top surface of the transformer. The insulation coating may be applied to at least one sidewall of the transformer. In an embodiment, the insulation coating is applied to at least the top 1 / 8 of at least one sidewall of the transformer. The insulation coating may be applied to cover the top 1 / 16, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2, 2 / 3, 3 / 4, 5 / 8, or 7 / 8 of the sidewall. In one embodiment, the insulation coating completely covers at least one sidewall. The insulation coating may be configured to completely cover the top surface of the transformer, one or more sidewalls of the transformer, a bottom surface of the transformer, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the dielectric coating is applied to the entire top surface of the transformer, the entire sidewall surface or surfaces of the transformer, the entire bottom surface of the transformer, or a combination thereof to provide complete coverage and uniform consistency and thickness across the surfaces to which the dielectric coating is applied. In one embodiment, the dielectric coating covers the entire transformer. Examples of low dielectric constant dielectric coatings include Parylene N, Parylene C, acrylics, epoxies, silicones, and urethanes. One or more primers may be used to promote adhesion.

[0072] In some embodiments, the insulation coating is pumped to a coating device (such as, but not limited to, one or more sprayers, a reverse roll coater, or a curtain coater). The insulation coating can be applied to at least one surface of the transformer as it passes under the coating device or as it passes through the coating device. In one embodiment, the insulation coating is gravity fed and placed on the transformer after it passes under the roll coater. A second layer of insulation coating can optionally be applied over the first layer of insulation coating or veil by a coating device (i.e., a sprayer, a reverse roll coater, a curtain coater) in the same or similar manner as described above. In embodiments, this second insulation coating is the last insulation coating. In certain embodiments, up to 20 layers of insulation coating are included. In embodiments, up to 10 layers of insulation coating are included. In embodiments, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 layers of insulation coating are included.

[0073] In certain embodiments, the insulation includes a fluid application spray that is applied directly to at least one surface of the transformer. The spray must be suitable for heavy industrial use and must maintain its shape. Combinations of foaming agents and other liquids may also be used.

[0074] In various embodiments, the insulators can be constructed in various colors or color coded to indicate a predetermined designation of the utility company. In one embodiment, the insulators are colored red, a color commonly used to indicate danger. Such coloring can be particularly useful in the event of a power line break or other damage that may deter personnel from approaching or contacting the energized area around the insulators and allow the public to gain access to the transformer. In certain embodiments, glow-in-the-dark features can be employed to allow linemen and the public to more easily identify the insulators and transformers.

[0075] In embodiments, the object may be created by carving, injection molding, casting, or other known method processes, and in certain embodiments, may be printed by 3D printing techniques.

[0076] Alternative aspects are directed to methods of installing and using any of the various device embodiments disclosed herein, which will be apparent to those of skill in the art. [Industrial Applicability]

[0077] In addition to the above goals, the devices and methods described herein can be used to make operations on the electric grid safer, improve electric grid reliability / uptime, and mitigate animal incidents associated with pole-mounted transformers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 100 Insulator 120 Conductors (Electrical Cables) 150 Case 151 Grilles, cages or guards 200 Insulator 201 Top surface of insulator 203 Bottom surface of insulator 205 Side wall 207 Connector Assembly 209 Top flap 210 Means for reversibly fixing insulation to transformers 211 Bottom flap 225 Bushing port 300 Insulator 301 Top surface of insulator 303 Bottom of insulator 305 Side wall 310 Flanges for reversibly fixing insulators to transformers 312 flange slot 313 Fastener (assembled) 314 Clasp (male side) 316 Fastener (female side) 318 Pin Hinge (Left) 319 Pin Hinge (Right) 320 Left side part 325 Bushing port 340 Right side part 342 Undercut Lip 344 Transformer Spacer 350 Insulator 360 Upper fastener 400 Insulator 401 Top surface of insulator 403 Bottom of insulator 405 Side wall 420 Left side part 425 Bushing port 440 Right side part 510 Transformer 515 Transformer Upper Lip 520 Bushing 540 Electric pole

Claims

1. A device for preventing power outages, comprising: an insulator comprising a non-conductive material, a bushing port, and a means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer, the insulator being configured to completely cover a top surface of the transformer; The apparatus, wherein the insulator is configured to prevent electrically charged animals or debris from contacting the ground plane of the transformer.

2. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator is configured such that it can be safely installed onto a live transformer without de-energizing the transformer.

3. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer includes a latch, a buckle, a clamp, a clasp, a side release buckle, a carabiner, a snap fit, a friction fit, a hook and loop connector, a button and eye, a cam lock, a post and keyhole, a press fit, a screw lock, a snap, a spring loaded pin, or a combination thereof.

4. 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the means for reversibly securing the insulator to the transformer secures the insulator to itself.

5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the non-conductive material comprises paper, glass, fabric, rubber, porcelain, ceramic, plastic, or a combination thereof.

6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insulator comprises a sidewall configured to extend downwardly over a portion of at least one side of the transformer.

7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the insulator is configured to rest on a top surface of the transformer by gravity.

8. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a housing configured to enclose the at least one bushing.

9. The apparatus of claim 8 , wherein the housing is configured to be integral with the insulator.

10. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the bushing port comprises a hole, a gap, a notch, a channel, or a combination thereof extending therethrough, the bushing port comprising a configuration complementary to a configuration of at least one bushing, and wherein at least one bushing is configured to extend through the insulator.

11. the at least one bushing port comprises a customizable size, a customizable shape, or a combination thereof; the insulator comprises a selection means for selecting the customizable size, the customizable shape, or a combination thereof; The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the customizable size and the customizable shape are complementary to a size and shape of a bushing such that the bushing can extend through the insulator.

12. The selection means is Perforations forming a perimeter of said customizable size and customizable shape; a threaded portion configured to reversibly secure the customizable size and customizable shape having a complementary thread thereto; or The apparatus of claim 11 including combinations thereof.

13. The device of claim 11 , wherein the device comprises up to 20 bushing ports.

14. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator has a shape, size, and configuration molded to fit a commercially available transformer.

15. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator has a thickness of about 1 / 32 inch up to about 1 / 2 inch.

16. 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the insulator has a thickness of about 1 / 16 inch to about 1 / 4 inch.

17. 17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein the insulator has a thickness of about 1 / 8 inch.

18. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator has a surface area sufficient to cover a top surface of a transformer having a kilovolt (KV) rating of about 1 KV or greater.

19. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator has a surface area sufficient to cover a top surface of a transformer having a kilovolt (KV) rating of up to about 1,000 KV.

20. 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator has a surface area sufficient to cover a top surface of a transformer having a kilovolt (KV) rating of any one or more of about 1 KV, about 5 KV, about 5 KV, about 10 KV, about 15 KV, about 25 KV, about 37.5 KV, about 50 KV, about 75 KV, or about 100 KV.

21. 10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the insulator has a diameter or length of about 1 inch to about 1,000 inches.

22. The animal includes a mammal, a reptile, a bird, or a combination thereof; The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the debris includes foreign objects or debris caused by accidental human contact, natural disasters, terrorist attacks, criminal acts, or combinations thereof.

23. the mammal comprises a primate, a rodent, a raccoon, a feline, a bear, a marsupial, or a combination thereof; the bird includes an owl, a bird of prey, a waterfowl, a silver dove, a pigeon, a parrot, a parakeet, a cockatoo, a pelican, a gull, a hawk, an eagle, a falcon, a vulture, a sparrow, or a combination thereof; 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the reptile comprises a snake, a lizard, or a combination thereof.

24. the primate includes a human, monkey, chimpanzee, gorilla, orangutan, or a combination thereof; the rodent comprises a squirrel, a mouse, a rat, or a combination thereof; the feline includes a domestic cat, a wild cat, or a combination thereof; 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the marsupial comprises an opossum.

25. A device for preventing power outages, comprising: an insulator including a non-conductive material configured with a downwardly extending sidewall; a bushing port in the insulator corresponding to the location of the bushing on the transformer; Equipped with The apparatus, wherein the insulator has an open configuration removable from the transformer and a closed configuration secured onto a bushing extending through the bushing port.

26. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the non-conductive material is sloped or convex on a top portion of the transformer.

27. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the non-conductive material is cone-shaped.

28. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the bushing port is at a top portion of the insulator.

29. 26. The device of claim 25, wherein the bushing port opening is designed to fit snugly around an outer or inner diameter of the bushing.

30. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the transformer is configured to be attached to a bushing port of the transformer and does not require separate fastening to the transformer.

31. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the insulator is marked for material removal corresponding to an additional bushing.

32. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the transformer has two flaps secured together around the bushing port.

33. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the insulator has two sides that are secured together around the bushing port.

34. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, further comprising a spacer extending from a lower or inner surface of the insulator and defining an insulation gap between the lower surface of the insulator and a top surface of the transformer.

35. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the insulator is configured to rest on a top surface of the transformer.

36. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, further comprising drilled bushing ports removable from the insulator to accommodate additional bushing locations.

37. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the transformer is mounted on a utility pole and is operable to step down voltage from a standard three-phase overhead power system to a residential voltage.

38. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the insulator is at least 1 / 8 inch thick.

39. 1. A method for retrofitting a metal casing to an installed transformer, comprising the steps of: providing a bushing port and side walls in an insulator; the insulator covers the top of the installed transformer; Bushing ports provide access to the transformer bushings, The side walls extend laterally downward from the top of the installed transformer until placing and fixing the insulator on top of the casing of the installed transformer; A method for providing the above.

40. removing the insulation from the installed transformer; connecting electrical wires to the installed transformer; reinstalling the insulator over the installed transformer with the bushing port allowing connection of wire to bushing; 40. The method of claim 39, further comprising:

41. drilling additional bushing ports in the insulator; the step of positioning and fastening allows access to an additional bushing of the installed transformer through the additional bushing port; 40. The method of claim 39.

42. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the placing and securing step places left and right portions of an insulator around different sides of the bushing prior to securing the insulator around the installed transformer.

43. 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the positioning and securing step secures the insulator to itself with fasteners.

44. 1. A method of applying an insulating coating to a transformer, comprising the steps of: pumping the fluid dielectric coating into the coating apparatus such that the fluid dielectric coating flows through the coating apparatus; passing at least one surface of the transformer under or through a coating device such that the fluid dielectric coating is applied to the at least one surface of the transformer; and drying the insulation coating on the at least one surface of the transformer.

45. 45. The method of claim 44, wherein the step of passing at least one surface of the transformer under or through a coating apparatus is repeated at least 1 time, at least 2 times, at least 3 times, at least 4 times, at least 5 times, at least 6 times, at least 7 times, at least 8 times, at least 9 times, or at least 10 times.

46. 45. The method of claim 44, wherein the step of passing at least one face of the transformer under or through a coating apparatus is repeated a sufficient number of times until the insulation coating has a thickness of about 1 / 32 inch up to about ½ inch.

47. 45. An apparatus formed by the method of claim 44, wherein the dielectric coating has a uniform consistency and thickness across the entire surface of the transformer.

48. 45. The device formed by the method of claim 44, wherein the insulator coating comprises at least one of Parylene N, Parylene C, acrylic, epoxy, silicone, and urethane.

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