Conductor Termination Keeper for Fast Non-Piercing Grip
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing conductor attachment accessories require multiple parts, are time-consuming to install, and can damage conductors, posing risks such as disconnection and environmental hazards.
Innovation Solution
A conductor termination with a body and keeper design that allows for quick and secure attachment without piercing the conductor jacket, using a wedge-like interaction to grip the conductor as it is pulled away from the termination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple parts and bolts are used to secure the conductor, then the connection robustness is improved, but the installation time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (body, keeper, bolts, washers) into a single integrated termination device. The keeper is a monolithic piece that incorporates the gripping elements and securing mechanism, eliminating the need for multiple bolts and separate fastening components, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining connection robustness
Solution Approach 2:
The termination device is divided into two main functional segments: the body that interfaces with the conductor and the keeper that provides the securing mechanism. This segmentation allows for simplified assembly where the keeper is inserted into the body, creating a robust connection without requiring multiple fastening operations
2Reliability
If multiple parts and bolts are used to secure the conductor, then the connection robustness is improved, but the installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple fastening components into a single integrated keeper structure. The keeper incorporates built-in gripping elements and securing features that eliminate the need for separate bolts, washers, and multiple assembly steps, thereby reducing installation complexity while ensuring robust connection
Solution Approach 2:
The keeper is designed with self-gripping features that automatically secure the conductor upon insertion. The integrated design includes self-aligning and self-securing mechanisms that eliminate the need for complex fastening procedures, making the installation process simpler while maintaining connection reliability
3Strength
If the conductor jacket is pierced to secure the conductor, then the attachment strength is improved, but the conductor damage and environmental risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary gripping mechanism within the keeper that secures the conductor without direct piercing of the outer jacket. The gripping elements engage with the conductor through friction and mechanical interlocking within the channel, providing sufficient attachment strength while preserving the integrity of the conductor jacket and eliminating environmental risks
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
Facilitates efficient, risk-free installation with reduced conductor damage, enhancing conductor life and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a surface of the body defining the channel includes a waveform cross-sectional profile along the longitudinal axis
Implementation Method 2
The wing is insertable into the slot... facilitates efficient, risk-free installation with reduced conductor damage
Data Source
AI summary
Conductor terminations are provided. A conductor termination defines a longitudinal axis, a lateral axis, and a transverse axis. The conductor termination includes a body extending along the longitudinal axis, the body including a head and a tail, the head defining a channel and a slot, the channel and slot each extending along the longitudinal axis through a length of the head. The conductor termination further includes a keeper, the keeper defining a channel which extends along the longitudinal axis and including a wing protruding along the lateral axis. The keeper is insertable into the body in a direction along the longitudinal axis away from the tail.