Cross Arm Support Structure with Internal Geometric Framework
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cross arm structures made of composite materials fail to withstand the pressure from connectors and pins, leading to crushing and fatigue, and existing solutions like fiberglass cover socks can also cause pin insulators to dig into and damage the cross arm.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an internal geometric structure with horizontally and vertically extending walls and reinforcing pipes within the cross arm to distribute the load and prevent crushing, along with optional structural inserts and slotted end-caps for enhanced support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If cross arms are made of lightweight composite materials, then weight is reduced and ease of installation is improved, but strength and durability under tension are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The cross arm employs a composite structure combining lightweight composite outer walls with an internal geometric framework made of high-strength materials. This hybrid composite approach maintains the weight advantage of composite materials while incorporating the tensile strength of metal or high-modulus fibers in the internal structure, resolving the contradiction between light weight and high strength.
2Ease of operation
If cross arms are made thinner to extend further from the pole, then installation ease is improved, but resistance to crushing from connectors and pins deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The cross arm is segmented into an outer composite shell and an internal geometric framework with multiple walls and reinforcing pipes. This segmentation allows the outer shell to provide weather resistance and the internal framework to provide localized crushing resistance at connection points, while keeping overall dimensions slim for easy installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The internal geometric structure concentrates reinforcing elements specifically at locations subject to connector and pin pressure. This local quality enhancement provides crushing resistance exactly where needed without increasing the overall cross arm thickness, maintaining installation ease while improving local strength.
3Reliability
If fiberglass cover socks are used to protect cross arms, then protection from environmental factors is improved, but pin insulators can still dig into and crush the cross arm
Solution Approach 1:
The internal geometric framework with its multi-wall structure and reinforcing pipes is installed beforehand to provide a rigid underlying support. This beforehand cushioning prevents pin insulators from directly contacting and crushing the outer composite wall, even when covered by protective fiberglass socks, as the internal framework absorbs and distributes the concentrated loads.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an improved cross arm structure which supports various elements such as pin insulators and keeps the supported elements from crushing the arm when connectors and pins are tightened. According to a preferred embodiment, the present invention includes a cross arm with an inserted geometric structure which extends between the outer walls of the cross arm structure.