Bar Connector Centralizes Wire Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrical connection systems using crimp connectors are prone to disengagement during inclement weather, requiring frequent replacement and posing safety and environmental concerns due to the scattered placement of wires, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of reusable bar connectors with multiple electrical attachment structures and a flexible connector wire that can secure multiple service wires to a secondary distribution line using a single crimp connector, reducing the need for multiple crimp connectors and centralizing wire connections for easier access and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple crimp connectors are used to connect each service wire separately, then each wire can be individually connected to the secondary distribution line, but the number of connectors increases, making the system more complex and time-consuming to install and maintain
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple service wires are connected to a single common bar connector instead of using separate crimp connectors for each wire. The common bar connector consolidates multiple connection points into one unified component, reducing the total number of connectors needed while maintaining individual wire connectivity and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The common bar connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides attachment structures for multiple service wires, acts as a centralized connection point, and enables single-point securing to the secondary distribution line. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for multiple specialized connectors
2Ease of operation
If crimp connectors are scattered along the service wires, then each wire can be independently managed, but the scattered placement makes access difficult and time-consuming during maintenance and restoration
Solution Approach 1:
All service wire connections are merged into a single centralized location at the common bar connector. This consolidation allows technicians to access and manage all wire connections at one spot rather than traveling along scattered wires, significantly reducing maintenance time and improving operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The common bar connector acts as an intermediary component that brings all service wire connections to a single accessible location. It serves as a central hub that mediates between multiple service wires and the secondary distribution line, making all connections easily accessible from one point
3Reliability
If multiple crimp connectors are used for each service wire, then individual wire connections can be established, but more connectors are lost during storms, increasing environmental impact and replacement costs
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual crimp connectors are merged into a single common bar connector that can be secured with one crimp connector to the secondary distribution line. This consolidation reduces the total number of connectors exposed to storm damage, minimizing loss and environmental impact while maintaining connection stability for all service wires
Solution Approach 2:
The common bar connector design reduces connector loss by minimizing the number of connectors deployed. When restoration is needed, fewer connectors need to be replaced, and the design allows for easier recovery and reuse of connector components
Data Source
AI summary
A bar connector comprises an elongate bar with a series of electrical attachment structures along a length of the elongate bar. Each wire electrical attachment structure is to secure at least one wire to the elongate bar. A flexible connector wire with two ends that connect to the elongate bar is used to establish an electrical connection between the at least one wire and a secondary distribution line by a crimp connector. A method of connecting an electrical wire with the bar connector is also claimed.