Dielectric Fastener Applicator for Energized Power Lines
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for securing dielectric covers over electrical power transmission components are inefficient, particularly in terms of fastener installation, which is slow and costly due to the need for manual handling and de-energization of equipment, and there is a need for a tool that can remotely install fasteners on energized or hard-to-reach equipment.
Innovation Solution
A dielectric applicator tool comprising a structural frame element, a moveable fastener mount, and an actuator connected to a handle, allowing for remote installation of fasteners through cooperating surfaces of a dielectric protector over electrical power transmission components, using a dielectric material to prevent electrical transfer and featuring a Christmas tree fastener and retainer for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling methods are used to install fasteners on dielectric covers, then the installation process is simple and requires minimal equipment, but the installation speed is slow and operational costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The fastener applicator tool is designed to be self-contained with an integrated actuator mechanism that automatically drives fasteners through the dielectric cover without requiring manual insertion or complex external equipment. The tool performs its own fastener application function, eliminating the need for additional installation equipment and personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the fastener application function from manual operations and consolidates it into a single portable applicator tool. This removes the complexity of multiple separate tools and procedures, allowing one tool to perform the entire fastening operation independently.
2Reliability
If equipment is de-energized to install fasteners, then worker safety is improved, but operational downtime increases
Solution Approach 1:
The dielectric applicator tool serves as an intermediary between the worker and the energized equipment. The dielectric material in the tool provides electrical insulation, allowing workers to safely operate the fastener applicator on energized components without direct electrical contact, thereby eliminating the need to de-energize equipment for safety.
3Ease of operation
If simple push fasteners are used to secure dielectric covers, then the fastening process is quick and easy, but the fasteners cannot provide secure attachment under high electrical stress conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces simple push fasteners with a more sophisticated fastener system that includes a drive mechanism and retention features. The fastener applicator tool provides controlled mechanical driving action that ensures proper fastener installation and security, replacing the inadequate simple push method while maintaining ease of operation through the automated tool.
Data Source
AI summary
An applicator tool is disclosed for applying a fastener between cooperating surfaces of a dielectric protector placed at least partially over a component of an electrical power transmission system, the applicator tool made at least in part of dielectric material and comprising: a structural frame element; a fastener mount connected to the structural frame element and moveable relative to the structural frame element between a first position and a second position to at least partially define a fastener drive path; and an actuator connected to drive the fastener mount from the first position to the second position to apply in use a fastener, mounted on the fastener mount, through cooperating surfaces positioned on the fastener drive path. A tool is also disclosed for holding together in alignment two mating surfaces with pre-drilled holes and applying a fastener to penetrate the holes and secure the mating surfaces together.