Cable Locking Device with Automatic Trigger for High-Voltage Line Maintenance
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Solution Overview
Problem
In high-voltage electricity transmission line maintenance, the process of unwinding and installing cables is hindered by the need for manual tensioning and blocking of cables at pylons, which is time-consuming and risky due to the proximity of helicopters, especially when space constraints prevent ground-based tensioning.
Innovation Solution
A cable locking device with a clamp and traction member, featuring clamping jaws actuated by a traction member and a detent system that automatically engages and releases to block the cable under tension, eliminating the need for human intervention and enabling safe and efficient operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual tensioning and blocking of cables is performed at pylons, then the cable can be securely locked under tension, but the operation is time-consuming and risky due to helicopter proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The cable clamp device automatically performs the tensioning and locking operation without human intervention. The trigger mechanism is activated by the cable itself as it is paid out from the helicopter, causing the jaws to close and secure the cable automatically. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for operators to manually tension and block the cable while near the helicopter, both reducing time loss and maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable clamp is pre-positioned and pre-configured on the pylon structure before the helicopter arrives. The trigger mechanism is set in advance so that when the cable reaches a certain position during payout, it automatically activates the clamping action. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for time-consuming manual operations during the critical helicopter proximity phase.
2Reliability
If manual tensioning and blocking operations are performed by operators on pylons, then the cable can be secured, but the risk to operators increases due to helicopter proximity
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs the dangerous tensioning and locking function automatically without requiring operators to be on the pylon during helicopter operations. The cable's own movement triggers the clamping mechanism, eliminating human exposure to the harmful factor of helicopter proximity while maintaining secure cable blocking.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger mechanism acts as an intermediary between the cable and the clamping jaws. Instead of operators directly handling the tensioned cable near the helicopter, the trigger mechanism mediates the force transmission, converting the cable's movement into automatic jaw closure. This intermediary mechanism removes operators from the hazardous zone while ensuring reliable cable securing.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If ground-based tensioning is used when space is available, then operator safety is improved, but this solution is not available when space constraints exist at pylons
Solution Approach 1:
The cable clamp device with automatic trigger mechanism can be universally applied in both scenarios: when ground-based tensioning space is available and when it is not. The device adapts to the constrained pylon environment by performing automatic tensioning and locking in place, making the system versatile across different installation conditions while maintaining operator safety.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring horizontal ground space for tensioning operations, the invention utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning the clamp on the pylon structure itself. The automatic trigger mechanism operates in the limited space available on the pylon, transforming the constraint of limited ground space into a workable solution by using the vertical mounting position and automatic actuation.
Data Source
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AI summary
This device (30) for gripping a cable (34) comprises a strain relief cable clamp (10) having clamping jaws and a traction member, a first platen (32) for receiving the cable (34) and a second platen (38) for receiving the cable (34), the second platen being slidingly connected to the first platen (32) and movable between a first position, maintained by default by return means arranged between the first and second platens (32, 38), and a second position maintained by a catch engaged so as to tension the return means. At least one (12) of the jaws of the strain relief cable clamp (10) is attached to one (38) of the platens (32, 38), while a free end (22A) of the traction member is attached to the other platen (32), in such a way that the jaws are clamped in the first position of the second platen (38) and opened in the second position of the second platen (38). The catch is further designed to be released when engaged by the cable (34) passing through the open jaws of the strain relief cable clamp (10).