Hot stick tool lock

Abstract

A bushing guard that includes a first section, a second section, and an installation tool. The first section includes a first outer edge with a first connector and a projection spaced apart from the first connector. The second section includes a second outer edge with a second connector and a catch spaced apart from the second connector. The second connector is coupled to the first connector to permit movement between an opened position and a closed position. The installation tool includes a first end with a channel and a second end with a slot. The channel can removably receive the projection. The catch can contact the installation tool in the opened position to limit translational movement of the installation tool relative to the projection. The catch can be spaced apart from the installation tool in the closed position to permit translational movement of the installation tool relative to the projection.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 34704.2563 (990-320-W001)Hot Stick Tool LockCross Reference to Related Application:

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U. S. Provisional Application No.63 / 779,489, filed March 28, 2025, the contents of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.Field:

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an insulator guard. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to an insertion tool for an insulator guard.Background:

[0003] A guard may be coupled to an insulator (e.g., a bushing) to limit contact between the insulator and animals (e.g., birds, small mammals, etc.). A technician may use a tool (e.g., a hot stick) to install the guard on the insulator. The tool may be an elongated tool (e.g., a 30-foot hot stick) to permit the technician to remain on the ground while installing the guard high above. More specifically, an adapter may connect to the guard and the technician may connect the tool to the adapter. However, in adverse conditions (e.g., in a windy environment, in extreme hot or cold conditions, etc.), the adapter may become disconnected from the guard, which makes connection of the guard to the insulator difficult. A need exists for an adapter that remains coupled to the guard during installation, but can be easily removed afterward.Summary:

[0004] Various examples of the present disclosure can overcome various of the aforementioned and other disadvantages associated with known insulator guards and offer new advantages as well.

[0005] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided an insulator guard that includes a first section and a second section. The first section includes a first outer edge with a first connector, a second connector, and a projection disposed between the first connector and the second connector. The second section includes a second outer edge with a third connector, a fourth connector, a first catch spaced apart from the third connector, and a fourth catch spaced apart from the fourth connector. The third connector is coupled to the first connector and the fourth connector is coupled to the second connector to permit the second section to move relative to the first section between an opened position and a closed position. In the opened position, the first catch and the second catch are disposed radially outside of the projection. The projection can removably receive a tool. The first catch and the second catch can contact the tool in the opened position to retain the tool on the projection.

[0006] In some forms, a) the projection includes an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter; b) the inner perimeter forms an opening configured to receive an instrument; c) the first section and the second section are pivotable relative to one another; d) the first catch includes a first lip with a first overhang and the second catch includes a second lip with a second overhang; e) the second section includes a body at least partially forming an inner volume; and / or f) the first overhang and the second overhang extend toward an opening of the inner volume.

[0007] In some forms, a) the projection extends at an oblique angle relative to the first outer edge; b) a biasing member is connected between the first section and the second section; c) the biasing member can bias the second section toward the closed position; d) a first elongated rod is connected to the first section and a second elongated rod is connected to the second section and to the first elongated rod; e) the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are movable between a first rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are disposed at an oblique angle relative to one another and a second rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are co-linearly oriented; f) the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod can counteract the bias of the biasing member in the second rod position; g) the first elongated rod includes a C-shaped channel and the second elongated rod includes a rod projection; and / or h) the C-shaped channel can receive the rod projection.

[0008] In some forms, a) the channel extends through the entire length of the first end; b) a length of the channel is less than a length of the projection; and / or c) an interface between the first end and the second end is angled.

[0009] In some forms, a) an interface between the first end and the second end is curved; b) the channel extends partially through a length of the first end; and / or c) projection is received entirely within the channel.

[0010] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided installation tool for connecting an insulator guard to an insulator. The installation tool includes elongated body that extends along a body axis between a first end and a second end. The first end includes a channel extending entirely through the body along a channel axis perpendicular to the body axis. The second end includes a slot that extends at least partially toward the first end along the body axis. The channel can receive a projection of the insulator guard and the slot can receive a tool.

[0011] In some forms, a) a first lip at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter of the first end; b) the first lip is radially outside of the channel; c) a second lip at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter of the first end and is spaced apart from the first lip; and / or d) the second lip is radially outside of the channel.

[0012] In some forms, a) the channel extends through the entire length of the first end; b) a length of the channel is less than a length of the projection; and / or c) an interface between the first end and the second end is angled.

[0013] In some forms, a) the channel extends through the entire length of the first end; b) a length of the channel is less than a length of the projection; and / or c) an interface between the first end and the second end is angled.

[0014] According to one aspect of various examples of the present disclosure there is provided an insulator guard that includes a first section, a second section, and an installation tool. The first section includes a first outer edge with a first connector and a projection spaced apart from the first connector. The second section includes a second outer edge with a second connector and a catch spaced apart from the second connector. The second connector is coupled to the first connector to permit the second section to move relative to the first section between an opened position and a closed position. The installation tool includes a first end with a channel and a second end with a slot. Thechannel can removably receive the projection. The catch can contact the installation tool in the opened position to limit translational movement of the installation tool relative to the projection. The catch can be spaced apart from the installation tool in the closed position to permit translational movement of the installation tool relative to the projection.

[0015] In some forms, a) the installation tool includes a first lip that at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter; b) the catch includes a second lip with an overhang; and / or c) the second lip can engage the first lip in the open position.

[0016] In some forms, a) the channel includes a first width and the projection includes a second width less than the first width; b) the installation tool can loosely fit over the projection so that it is freely translatable relative to the projection; c) the slot extends along the body toward the first end in a perpendicular direction to the channel; d) the projection includes an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter; and / or e) the inner perimeter forms an opening that can receive a tool.

[0017] In some forms, a) the first section further includes a third connector and the second section further includes a fourth connector coupled to the third connector; b) the projection is disposed between the first and third connectors; and / or c) the catch is a first catch and the second section further includes a second catch spaced apart from the fourth connector.

[0018] In some forms, a) the projection extends at an oblique angle relative to the first outer edge; b) a biasing member is connected between the first section and the second section; c) the biasing member can bias the second section toward the closed position; d) a first elongated rod is connected to the first section and a second elongated rod is connected to the second section and to the first elongated rod; e) the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are movable between a first rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are disposed at an oblique angle relative to one another and a second rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are co-linearly oriented; f) the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod can counteract the bias of the biasing member in the second rod position; g) the first elongated rod includes a C-shaped channel and the second elongated rod includes a rod projection; and / or h) the C-shaped channel can receive the rod projection.

[0019] In some forms, a) an interface between the first end and the second end is curved; b) the channel extends partially through a length of the first end; and / or c) projection is received entirely within the channel

[0020] According to another aspect of various examples of the present disclosure, there is provided a method of connecting an insulator guard to an insulator. The method includes positioning the insulator guard in a closed position forming an at least partially enclosed volume and coupling a first end of an installation tool to a projection of the insulator guard. The method also includes moving the insulator guard to an opened position that at least partially exposed the volume, connecting an installation device to a second end of the installation tool, and using the installation device to move the insulator guard to the insulator. The method further includes returning the insulator guard to the closed position and removing the installation device from the projection. The insulator guard can limit translation of the installation device relative to the projection when the insulator guard is in the opened position.

[0021] In some forms, the insulator guard includes a) a first section that includes a first outer edge with a first connector and the projection spaced apart from the first connector; b) a second section that includes a second outer edge with a second connector and a catch spaced apart from the second connector; c) the second connector is coupled to the first connector to permit the second section to move relative to the first section between the opened position and the closed position; and / or d) the catch is configured to contact the installation tool in the opened position.

[0022] In certain forms, a) the catch includes a first lip with a first overhang; b) the second section includes a body at least partially forming an inner volume; c) the first overhang extends toward an opening of the inner volume; d) the installation tool further includes a second lip that at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter of the first end; e) the first lip is radially outside of the channel; and / or f) the first lip can contact the second lip in the opened position.

[0023] In some forms, a) coupling a first end of an installation tool to a projection further includes loosely sliding a channel of the installation tool over the projection; b) the channel includes a first width and the projection includes a second width less than the first width; c) the projection includes an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter; and / or d)grasping the inner perimeter of the projection via the installation device after removing the installation device from the projection.

[0024] The disclosure herein should become evident to a person of ordinary skill in the art given the following enabling description and drawings. The drawings are for illustration purposes only and are not drawn to scale unless otherwise indicated. The drawings are not Intended to limit the scope of the disclosure. The following enabling disclosure is directed to one of ordinary skill in the art and presupposes that those aspects within the ability of the ordinarily skilled artisan are understood and appreciated.Brief Description of the Drawings:

[0025] Various aspects and advantageous features of the present disclosure will become more apparent to those of ordinary skill when described in the detailed description of preferred examples and reference to the accompanying drawing wherein:

[0026] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of an enclosure in an open position.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the enclosure of FIG. 1.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of a first half of the enclosure of FIG. 1.

[0029] FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the first half of the enclosure of FIG. 3.

[0030] FIG. 5 is a side view of the first half of the enclosure of FIG. 3.

[0031] FIG. 6 is a rear perspective view of a second half of the enclosure of FIG. 1.

[0032] FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of the second half of the enclosure of FIG. 6.

[0033] FIG. 8 is a side view of the second half of the enclosure of FIG. 6.

[0034] FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a first mating tool for positioning the enclosure.

[0035] FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the first mating tool of FIG. 9.

[0036] FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of a second mating tool for positioning the enclosure.

[0037] FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the second mating tool of FIG. 11.

[0038] FIG. 13 is a top perspective view of a locking device.

[0039] FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view of the locking device of FIG. 13.

[0040] FIG. 15 is a rear view of the enclosure of FIG. 1 with the mating tool in a locked position.

[0041] FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure of FIG. 1 viewed along section 16-16, illustrating a guard catch engaging the mating tool.

[0042] FIG. 17 is a rear view of the enclosure of FIG. 1 with the second mating tool in a locked position.

[0043] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure of FIG. 1 viewed along section 18-18, illustrating a guard catch engaging the second mating tool.

[0044] FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of an enclosure in a closed position.

[0045] FIG. 20 is a rear perspective view of the enclosure of FIG. 19.

[0046] FIG. 21 is a rear view of the enclosure of FIG. 19.

[0047] FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure of FIG. 20, viewed along section 22-22, illustrating the guard catch spaced apart from the mating tool.

[0048] FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of an enclosure in a closed position with the second mating tool.

[0049] FIG. 24 is a rear view of the enclosure of FIG. 23.

[0050] FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view of the enclosure of FIG. 23, viewed along section 25-25, illustrating the guard catch spaced apart from the mating toolDetailed Description:

[0051] An enclosure or insulator guard 100 may be used to at least partially enclose an insulator or other electrical device. For example, the insulator guard 100 may enclose a bushing (e.g., insulator bushing), and may be referred to as a bushing guard. The illustrated bushing guard 100 may fully enclose a bushing (not shown), which may limit and / or prevent animals (e.g., birds, small mammals, etc.) from accessing the bushing. However, reference to a bushing guard is not intended to limit the disclosure to guards that enclose other types of insulators.

[0052] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the bushing guard 100 may include a first half or section 105 and a second half or section 110. The first and second sections 105, 110 may be movable relative to one another to selectively enclose a bushing.

[0053] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the first section 105 may include a body 115 that at least partially forms an inner cavity 120. For example, the body 115 may have a curved shape, although other examples may have a different shape (e.g., an angled shape).

[0054] In some forms, the body 115 may include a webbed region 125 that may form an at least partially open region that provides communication through the body to the inner cavity 120. For example, the webbed region 125 may include a series of intersecting segments that are at least partially spaced apart. The spacing between the intersecting segments may permit the communication with the inner cavity 120.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 3, an outer edge of the first section 105 may include a plurality of fingers 130. For example, fingers 130 may radiate outwardly from an upper end of the first section 105 and along a side of the first section 105. The illustrated fingers 130 may be substantially equally spaced apart from adjacent fingers 130.

[0056] In some forms, the fingers 130 may extend at an angle from the edge of the first section 105. For example, as viewed in FIG. 4, the fingers 130 may extend toward a side of the body 115 with the inner cavity 120. As described in more detail below, the fingers 130 may intersect with fingers on the second section 110 when the bushing guard 100 is in a closed position.

[0057] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, a lower end of the body 115 may include a first tab 135, which may be formed proximate to the fingers 130. For example, the plurality of fingers 130 may extend substantially to a lower end of the body 115 on one side. The first tab 135 may extend at an angle from the edge of the body 115. In the illustrated example, the first tab 135 may extend in an opposite direction from the plurality of fingers 130. In other words, the first tab 135 may extend away from the side of the body 115 with the inner cavity 120.

[0058] With continued reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, an opposite edge of the body 115 may include a pair of first connectors 140. The illustrated first connectors 140 may be female connectors that can receive male connectors. However, other examples of the first connectors 140 may be male connectors that can engage female connectors. In still other examples, the first connectors 140 could include a male and a female connector.

[0059] In the illustrated example, the first connectors 140 may be spaced apart from one another. One first connector 140 may be disposed proximate to an upper end of the body 115. For example, the one first connector 140 may be disposed proximate to an end of the plurality of fingers 130. The other first connector 140 may be spaced apart and disposed at a lower end of the body 115 (e.g., opposite to the first tab 135).

[0060] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 5, the fingers 130 may not be disposed between the first connectors 140. Instead, a tool support 145 may be disposed between the first connectors 140. The illustrated tool support 145 may be angled away from the edge of the body 115. For example, the tool support 145 may extend away from the inner cavity 120 similar to the first tab 135.

[0061] In some forms, the tool support 145 may include an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter. In the illustrated example, the inner perimeter may form a substantially round (e.g., circular or elliptical) shape. The outer perimeter may be different than the inner perimeter. For example, the illustrated outer perimeter may include a number of ridges or projections. However, other examples of the outer perimeter may be substantially smooth.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 4, the lower end of the body 115 may include a first cutout 150. The first cutout 150 may have a substantially round (e.g., semi-circular, semi¬ elliptical, etc.) shape, although other examples may have other shapes.

[0063] As shown in FIGS. 6 to 8, the second section 110 may include a body 155 that at least partially forms an inner cavity 160. For example, the body 155 may have a curved shape, although other examples may have a different shape (e.g., an angled shape). In the illustrated example, the body 155 of the second section 110 may have a substantially similar shape as the body 115 of the first section 105. For example, the inner cavity 160 of the second section 110 may have a similar volume as the inner cavity 120 of the first section 105.

[0064] In some forms, the body 155 may include a webbed region 165 that may form an at least partially open region that provides communication through the body to the inner cavity 160. For example, the webbed region 165 may include a series of intersecting segments that are at least partially spaced apart. The spacing between the intersecting segments may permit the communication with the inner cavity 160.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 6, an outer edge of the second section 110 may include a plurality of fingers 170. For example, fingers 170 may radiate outwardly from an upper end of the second section 110 and along a side of the second section 110. The illustrated fingers 170 may be substantially equally spaced apart from adjacent fingers 170.

[0066] In some forms, the fingers 170 may extend at an angle from the edge of the second section 110. For example, as viewed in FIG. 7, the fingers 170 may extend toward a side of the body 155 with the inner cavity 160. As described in more detail below, the fingers 170 may intersect with fingers 130 on the first section 105 when the bushing guard 100 is in a closed position.

[0067] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, a lower end of the body 155 may include a second tab 175, which may be formed proximate to the fingers 170. For example, the plurality of fingers 170 may extend substantially to a lower end of the body 155 on one side. The second tab 175 may extend at an angle from the edge of the body 155. In the illustrated example, the second tab 175 may extend in an opposite direction from the plurality of fingers 170. In other words, the second tab 175 may extend away from the side of the body 155 with the inner cavity 160.

[0068] With continued reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, an opposite edge of the body 155 may include a pair of second connectors 180. The illustrated second connectors 180 may be male connectors that can connect to female connectors. However, other examples of the second connectors 180 may be female connectors that can engage male connectors. In still other examples, the second connectors 180 could include a male and a female connector.

[0069] In the illustrated example, the second connectors 180 may be spaced apart from one another. One second connector 180 may be disposed proximate to an upper end of the body 155. For example, the one second connector 180 may be disposed proximate to an end of the plurality of fingers 170. The other second connector 180 may be spaced apart and disposed at a lower end of the body 155 (e.g., opposite to the second tab 175).

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 8, the fingers 170 may not be disposed between the second connectors 180. Instead, one or more catches 185 (e.g., two shown) may be disposed between the second connectors 180. For example, one catch 185 may be disposed proximate to each of the second connectors 180.

[0071] In some forms, each catch 185 may be formed as a cantilever member with a free end that extends away from the body 155. The free end of each catch 185 mayinclude a lip 190 that is oriented toward the open side of the body 155 (e.g., the side of the body 155 that opens to the inner cavity 160).

[0072] As shown in FIG. 7, the lower end of the body 155 may include a second cutout 195. The second cutout 195 may have a substantially round (e.g., semi-circular, semi¬ elliptical, etc.) shape, although other examples may have other shapes. In some forms, the first and second cutouts 150, 195 may have substantially the same shape.

[0073] In some forms, a biasing member 197 may be coupled between the first and second sections 105, 110 (see e.g., FIGS. 17 and 18). For example, the biasing member 197 may be coupled to an outer surface of the first and second sections 105, 110. In some forms, the biasing members may bias the first and second sections 105, 110 toward a closed position. In other words, the first and second sections 105, 110 may move against the bias of the spring 197 when moving toward the opened position.

[0074] In some forms, one or more rods may be connected between the lower surface of the first and second sections 105, 110. As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, a first elongated rod 25 may be connected to a second elongated rod 30. In some forms, an end of the first elongated rod 25 may include a slot 35 that can receive a projection 40 of the second elongated rod 30. The first rod 25 may be able to move relative to the second rod 30 by rotating about the projection 40.

[0075] In some forms, the first rod 25 and the second rod 30 may each include a fastening projection 45 which can be received within a respective fastening aperture 199 on the respective sections 105, 110. When the fastening projections 45 are received within the respective fastening apertures 199, the first and second rods 25, 30 may rotate relative to the respective section 105, 110.

[0076] In certain forms, the first and second rods 25, 30 may be movable relative to one another between an unlocked and locked position. For example, the first and second rods 25, 30 may be angled relative to one another in the locked position. This position may occur when the first and second sections 105, 110 are in the closed position. As the first and second sections 105, 110 move to the opened position, the first and second rods 25, 30 may move to a locked position where they are substantially aligned. In this position, the first and second rods 25, 30 may be locked and may counteract the biasing force of the spring 197. This may keep the first and second sections 105, 110 in theopened position to allow the technician to install the bushing guard 100. The technician can move the first and second rods 25, 30 toward the unlocked position so that the first and second sections 105, 110 toward the closed position (e.g., as a result of the spring bias).

[0077] An installation tool or adapter 200 may be shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. The installation tool 200 may be used by a technician to install the bushing guard 100 on a bushing.

[0078] As shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, the installation tool 200 may include an elongated body 205 that has a first end 210 and a second end 215. In the illustrated example, the first end 210 may include a channel 220. The channel 220 may have a substantially rectangular opening, although other examples may include other shapes. The channel 220 may extend entirely through the installation tool 200 so that there is an opening on either side.

[0079] In some forms, the body 205 of the adapter 200 may be formed with a substantially L-shape. In other words, the body 205 may be formed at a right angle so that a single axis does not extend along the length of the body 205 between the first and second ends 210, 215. In some examples, the angle in the body 205 may be formed proximate to the channel 220. An opening to the channel 220 opposite to the first end 210 may extend past the portion of the body 205 that extends toward the second end 215.

[0080] In some forms, an outer surface at a base of the channel 220 may include a lip 225. In the illustrated example, a lip 225 may be formed at either end of the channel 220 and may not extend entirely around the channel 220. In other examples, the position and / or shape of the channel 220 may be different.

[0081] The second end 215 of the installation tool 200 may include a slot 230. In the illustrated example, the slot 230 may have an elongated shape and may extend at least partially along the length of the body 205 (e.g., toward the first end 210). In some forms, the slot 230 may extend in a substantially perpendicular direction as the channel 220.

[0082] As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, an alternate example of the installation tool 300 may include an elongated body 305 that has a first end 310 and a second end 315. In the illustrated example, the first end 310 may include a channel 320. The channel 320may have a substantially rectangular opening, although other examples may include other shapes. The channel 320 may extend entirely through the installation tool 300 so that there is an opening on either side.

[0083] In some forms, an outer surface at a base of the channel 320 may include a lip 325. In the illustrated example, a lip 325 may be formed at either end of the channel 320 and may not extend entirely around the channel 320. In other examples, the position and / or shape of the channel 320 may be different.

[0084] The second end 215 of the installation tool 300 may include a slot 330. In the illustrated example, the slot 330 may have an elongated shape and may extend at least partially along the length of the body 305 (e.g., toward the first end 310). In some forms, the slot 330 may extend in a substantially perpendicular direction as the channel 320.

[0085] In some forms, the body 305 of the adapter 300 may be formed with a substantially L-shape. Unlike the adapter 200, the adapter 300 may be curved between the first and second ends 310, 315. The body 305 may include a groove 322 that extends along a portion of the body 305 and contains the opening to the channel 320. The body 305 may turn toward the second end 315 after passing the end of the channel 320. The

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, the first and second sections 105, 110 may be coupled together to form the bushing guard 100. For example, the first and second connectors 140, 180 may be coupled together (e.g., with a snap fit). Once connected, the first and second sections 105, 110 may be movable (e g., pivotable) between an open position (see e.g., FIGS. 15 and 16) and a closed position (see e.g., FIGS. 19 to 22).

[0087] In some forms, the plurality of fingers 130 on the first section 105 may be offset from the plurality of fingers 170 on the second section 110. When the first and second sections 105, 110 move between the opened and closed positions, the fingers 130 on the first section 105 may fit between the fingers 170 of the second section 110. This permits the bushing guard 100 to move into the closed position.

[0088] In use, a technician may begin with the bushing guard 100 in an open position so that the first section 105 is pivoted apart from the second section 110. In this position, the inner cavity 120 of the first section 105 and the inner cavity 160 of the second section 110 may be accessible. This may permit the inner cavities 120, 160 to receive an external object (e.g., a bushing).

[0089] The installation tool 200 may also be coupled to the first section 105. Specifically, the installation tool 200 may be oriented so that the channel 220 receives the tool support 145. In the illustrated example, the channel 220 may slide over the tool support 145 in a loose-fitting manner. In other words, maximum width of the tool support 145 may be less than a width of the channel 220 so that the installation tool 200 may freely slide onto the tool support 145. In other examples, the tool support 145 may be larger and / or may include a magnet to engage the installation tool 200.

[0090] To secure the loose-fitting installation tool 200 in place on the tool support 145, the catches 185 may contact the installation tool 200. Specifically, the lip 190 of each catch 185 may engage a lip 225 positioned radially outside of the channel 220.

[0091] In some forms, the catches 185 may be formed so that the respective lip 190 engages the installation tool 200 in the opened position. In other words, as the first and second sections 105, 110 move relative to one another, the lips 190 of each catch 185 contacts the lip 225 surrounding the channel 220. The installation tool 200 may therefore be installed (e.g., positioned on the tool support 145) while the bushing guard 100 is in the closed position. As long as the bushing guard 100 remains in the opened position, the lips 190 may remain in contact with the lips 225 and limit the translational movement of the installation tool 200 relative to the tool support 145.

[0092] With continued reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the second end 215 of the installation tool 200 may extend away from the first and second sections 105, 110. Specifically, the slot 230 may extend past the second section 110 so that it is spaced apart and accessible to the technician.

[0093] The technician may use a tool (e.g., a hot stick, etc.) to connect to the slot 230 at the second end 215 of the installation tool 200. Once connected, the technician may be able to move and position the bushing guard 100 in a desired location. The bushing guard 100 may remain in the opened position during this process so that the installation tool 200 remains fixed to the first section 105.

[0094] Once the bushing guard 100 is in a desired position (e.g., positioned proximate to a bushing), the first and second sections 105, 110 may pivot to a closed position illustrated in FIGS. 19 to 22. For example, the first and second sections 105, 110 may move so that the bushing is received within the inner cavities 120, 160. The cutouts 150,195 may extend around a lower end of the bushing. The combined width of the cutouts 150, 195 may be substantially similar to the width of the bushing so that there is substantially no gap between the cutouts 150, 195 and the bushing (e.g., to limit the ability for animals to egress into the inner cavities 120, 160).

[0095] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the catches 185 move away from the tool support 145 as the bushing guard 100 moves to the closed position. More specifically, each lip 190 of the respective catch 185 may move away from the lip 225 on the installation tool 200. This may permit the installation tool 200 to freely translate relative to the tool support 145 so that the technician can remove the installation tool 200.

[0096] In some forms, the installation tool 200 may be reusable after it is removed from the bushing guard 100. For example, channel 220 of the installation tool 200 can receive the tool support 145 of another bushing guard 100.

[0097] The technician may later move the bushing guard 100 back to the open position and remove it from the bushing. For example, the technician may use the tabs 135, 175 to move the first and second sections 105, 110 apart from one another. The technician may then use a tool (e.g., hot stick) to grasp the bushing guard 100 and move it away from the bushing. For example, the tool may engage the inner opening of the tool support 145 to move the bushing guard 100.

[0098] As shown in FIGS. 23 to 25, the installation tool 300 may be connected to the bushing guard 100 in a similar manner as the installation tool 200. The installation tool 300 may include a lip 325 that is engageable by the catches 185 while the first and second sections 105, 110 are in the opened position. The catches 185 secure the installation tool 300 while the first and second sections 105, 110 are in the opened position so that the bushing guard 100 can be installed, and the catches 185 disengage from the lip 325 in the closed position so that the installation tool can be removed.

[0099] One of ordinary skill will appreciate that the exact dimensions and materials are not critical to the disclosure and all suitable variations should be deemed to be within the scope of the disclosure if deemed suitable for carrying out the objects of the disclosure.

[0100] One of ordinary skill in the art will also readily appreciate that it is well within the ability of the ordinarily skilled artisan to modify one or more of the constituent parts for carrying out the various examples of the disclosure. Once armed with the presentspecification, routine experimentation is all that is needed to determine adjustments and modifications that will carry out the present disclosure.

[0101] The above examples are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or the adaptation of the features described herein. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that various adaptations and modifications of the above-described preferred examples can be configured without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the appended claims, the disclosure may be practiced other than as specifically described.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An insulator guard comprising:a first section including a first outer edge with a first connector and a projection spaced apart from the first connector;a second section including a second outer edge with a second connector and a catch spaced apart from the second connector, wherein the second connector is coupled to the first connector to permit the second section to move relative to the first section between an opened position and a closed position; andan installation tool including a first end with a channel and a second end with a slot, wherein the channel is configured to removably receive the projection;wherein the catch is configured to contact the installation tool in the opened position to limit translational movement of the installation tool relative to the projection; andwherein the catch is configured to be spaced apart from the installation tool in the closed position to permit translational movement of the installation tool relative to the projection.

2. The insulator guard of claim 1, wherein the installation tool includes a first lip that at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter, wherein the catch includes a second lip with an overhang, and wherein the second lip is configured to engage the first lip in the open position.

3. The insulator guard of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the channel includes a first width and the projection includes a second width less than the first width, and wherein the installation tool is configured to loosely fit over the projection so that it is freely translatable relative to the projection.

4. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the slot extends along the installation tool toward the first end in a perpendicular direction to the channel.

5. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the projection includes an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter, and wherein the inner perimeter forms an opening configured to receive a tool.

6. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first section further includes a third connector and the second section further includes a fourth connector coupled to the third connector, wherein the projection is disposed between the first and third connectors, and wherein the catch is a first catch and the second section further includes a second catch spaced apart from the fourth connector.

7. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the projection extends at an oblique angle relative to the first outer edge.

8. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising a biasing member connected between the first section and the second section, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the second section toward the closed position.

9. The insulator guard of claim 8, further comprising a first elongated rod connected to the first section and a second elongated rod connected to the second section and to the first elongated rod, wherein the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are movable between a first rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are disposed at an oblique angle relative to one another and a second rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are co¬ linearly oriented, and wherein the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are configured to counteract the bias of the biasing member in the second rod position.

10. The insulator guard of claim 9, wherein the first elongated rod includes a C- shaped channel and the second elongated rod includes a rod projection, wherein the C-shaped channel is configured to receive the rod projection.

11. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the channel extends through the entire length of the first end, and wherein a length of the channel is less than a length of the projection.

12. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein an interface between the first end and the second end is angled.

13. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein an interface between the first end and the second end is curved.

14. The insulator guard of any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the channel extends partially through a length of the first end, and wherein projection is received entirely within the channel.

15. An insulator guard comprising:a first section including a first outer edge with a first connector, a second connector, and a projection disposed between the first connector and the second connector; anda second section including a second outer edge with a third connector, a fourth connector, a first catch spaced apart from the third connector, and a fourth catch spaced apart from the fourth connector, wherein the third connector is coupled to the first connector and the fourth connector is coupled to the second connector to permit the second section to move relative to the first section between an opened position and a closed position;wherein in the opened position, the first catch and the second catch are disposed radially outside of the projection;wherein the projection is configured to removably receive a tool; and wherein the first catch and the second catch are configured to contact the tool in the opened position to retain the tool on the projection.

16. The insulator guard of claim 15, wherein the projection includes an outer perimeter and an inner perimeter, and wherein the inner perimeter forms an opening configured to receive an instrument.

17. The insulator guard of claim 15 or claim 16, wherein the first section and the second section are pivotable relative to one another.

18. The insulator guard of any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the first catch includes a first lip with a first overhang and the second catch includes a second lip with a second overhang.

19. The insulator guard of claim 18, wherein the second section includes a body at least partially forming an inner volume, and wherein the first overhang and the second overhang extend toward an opening of the inner volume.

20. The insulator guard of any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein the projection extends at an oblique angle relative to the first outer edge.

21. The insulator guard of any one of claims 15 to 20, further comprising a biasing member connected between the first section and the second section, wherein the biasing member is configured to bias the second section toward the closed position.

22. The insulator guard of claim 21, further comprising a first elongated rod connected to the first section and a second elongated rod connected to the second section and to the first elongated rod, wherein the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are movable between a first rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are disposed at an oblique angle relative to one another and a second rod position where the first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are co¬ linearly oriented, and wherein first elongated rod and the second elongated rod are configured to counteract the bias of the biasing member in the second rod position.

23. The insulator guard of claim 22, wherein the first elongated rod includes a C-shaped channel and the second elongated rod includes a rod projection, wherein the C-shaped channel is configured to receive the rod projection.

24. An installation tool for connecting an insulator guard to an insulator, the installation tool comprises:an elongated body extending along a body axis between a first end and a second end;wherein the first end includes a channel extending entirely through the body along a channel axis perpendicular to the body axis;wherein the second end includes a slot that extends at least partially toward the first end along the body axis;wherein the channel is configured to receive a projection of the insulator guard and the slot is configured to receive a tool.

25. The installation tool of claim 24, further com prising a first lip that at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter of the first end, wherein the first lip is radially outside of the channel.

26. The installation tool of claim 25, further comprising a second lip that at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter of the first end and is spaced apart from the first lip, wherein the second lip is radially outside of the channel.

27. A method of connecting an insulator guard to an insulator, the method comprising:positioning the insulator guard in a closed position forming an at least partially enclosed volume;coupling a first end of an installation tool to a projection of the insulator guard; moving the insulator guard to an opened position that at least partially exposed the volume;connecting an installation device to a second end of the installation tool; using the installation device, moving the insulator guard to the insulator; returning the insulator guard to the closed position; andremoving the installation device from the projection;wherein insulator guard is configured to limit translation of the installation device relative to the projection when the insulator guard is in the opened position.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein coupling a first end of an installation tool to a projection further includes loosely sliding a channel of the installation tool over the projection, and wherein the channel includes a first width and the projection includes a second width less than the first width.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the installation tool further includes a second lip that at least partially surrounds an outer perimeter of the first end, wherein the first lip is radially outside of the channel, and wherein the first lip is configured to contact the second lip in the opened position.

30. The method of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the insulator guard further includes:a first section that includes a first outer edge with a first connector and the projection spaced apart from the first connector;a second section that includes a second outer edge with a second connector and a catch spaced apart from the second connector, wherein the second connector is coupled to the first connector to permit the second section to move relative to the first section between the opened position and the closed position;wherein the catch is configured to contact the installation tool in the opened position.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the catch includes a first lip with a first overhang, wherein the second section includes a body at least partially forming an inner volume, and wherein the first overhang extends toward an opening of the inner volume.

32. The method of any one of claims 27 to 31, wherein the projection includes an inner perimeter and an outer perimeter, the method further including grasping the inner perimeter of the projection via the installation device after removing the installation device from the projection.

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