Busway Joint Cam Locking for Tool-Free Secure Electrical Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing busway systems face challenges in securely connecting busway portions without the need for tools, while maintaining reliable electrical contact and preventing loosening over time.
Innovation Solution
A busway joint with a securing assembly that includes a cam assembly and a spring element, allowing for secure clamping of busway portions without tools, and maintaining electrical contact through adjustable space control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional cable and conduit systems are used for electrical power distribution, then installation and connection require tools and complex procedures, but the busway system provides a more streamlined alternative
Solution Approach 1:
The cam assembly is designed to transition between a first position (for insertion) and a second position (for locking), dynamically changing the clamp's gripping force on the busway portion. This dynamic mechanism enables tool-free operation while maintaining secure connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring element automatically applies clamping force to the busway portion when the cam assembly is actuated, and the cam mechanism self-locks in the second position without requiring additional tools or complex fastening procedures. The system serves itself by using the cam rotation to simultaneously engage the locking mechanism and apply securing force.
2Reliability
If secure clamping is achieved through traditional mechanical fastening, then reliable electrical contact is maintained, but tool-free installation and potential loosening over time become issues
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces traditional threaded fastening mechanisms with a cam-based mechanical advantage system. The cam assembly converts rotational motion into linear clamping force, eliminating the need for tools while maintaining secure, reliable connections that resist loosening over time.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam assembly utilizes curved geometric profiles to convert rotational motion into linear clamping force. The cam's curved surface interacts with the clamp to generate securing force on the busway portion, providing reliable electrical contact through smooth mechanical action rather than threaded engagement.
3Ease of operation
If the cam assembly is designed for manual operation without tools, then ease of installation is improved, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cam assembly and spring element are integrated into a single unified mechanism that performs multiple functions simultaneously: the spring provides continuous clamping force while the cam converts manual rotation into securing action. This merging of components achieves tool-free operation without proportionally increasing overall device complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables secure, tool-free installation and removal of busway joints, ensuring reliable electrical connections and preventing loosening, thereby enhancing the performance and usability of busway systems.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element between the locking element and the second exterior side
Implementation Method 2
a cam assembly at a first end of the connection element, the cam assembly including a cam body configured for rotation between a released position and a closed position
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A
AI summary
A busway joint (352) includes a first base portion (351), a second base portion (385), and at least one electrically conductive assembly (358). The at least one electrically conductive assembly (358) includes: a first electrical conductor; and a second electrical conductor separated from the first electrical conductor by a space (359). The busway joint (352) also includes a securing assembly (360). The securing assembly (360) includes: a connection element (362) that couples the first base portion (351) and the second base portion (385); a cam assembly (364) at a first end (367) of the connection element (362), the cam assembly (364) including a cam body (379) configured for rotation between a released position and a closed position; a locking element (363); and a spring element (366) between the locking element (363) and the second exterior side (356). Rotating the cam body (379) between the released position and the closed position changes an extent of the space (359).