Elbow Power Cable Connector Grounding Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical connector assemblies for high voltage switchgear lack efficient means for grounding and voltage testing without requiring physical movement of equipment, posing challenges for safe maintenance and operation.
Innovation Solution
The development of a power cable elbow connector with a grounding device and insulated cap that allows for conductive coupling to both the power cable and bushing, enabling grounding and voltage testing without disassembly, using a conductive core and insulative materials like EPDM for electrical continuity and insulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electrical connector assemblies are used for high voltage switchgear, then equipment can be connected, but grounding and voltage testing require physical movement of equipment which increases operational complexity and reduces safety
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the grounding function with the electrical connector assembly by integrating a grounding device that includes a conductive core and insulative material directly into the connector structure. This merging allows grounding and voltage testing to be performed without physical movement of equipment, eliminating the need for separate grounding operations while maintaining connector functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector assembly is designed to perform multiple functions: electrical connection, grounding, and voltage testing. The grounding device with conductive core and insulative material enables the connector to provide grounding pathways and voltage testing capabilities in addition to its primary connection function, reducing operational steps and improving ease of use.
2Loss of time
If grounding device with conductive core and insulative material is integrated into connector, then grounding and voltage testing are enabled without disassembly, but connector structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding device is nested within the connector assembly structure. The conductive core is positioned within the connector body, and insulative material is integrated to provide electrical isolation where needed. This nested arrangement allows the grounding functionality to be incorporated without significantly increasing the external dimensions or overall structural complexity of the connector.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding device utilizes composite construction with conductive core material (for electrical continuity) and insulative material (for electrical isolation). This composite approach enables multiple electrical functions within a single integrated component, reducing the need for separate parts and simplifying the overall connector structure while maintaining the required functionality.
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
Enables efficient grounding and voltage testing of high voltage switchgear components without disassembly, ensuring safety and reducing operational complexity by maintaining grounding within the connector for when needed.
Implementation Method 1
The conductive core 126 is configured to provide an electrical conduit between the power cable 106 and the bushing 112
Implementation Method 2
The insulative material 138 is positioned between the conductive core 126 and the conductive shield 136
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
An elbow-type power cable electrical connector (100) includes a connector body (102) having a bushing receiving end (108)projecting substantially perpendicularly from the connector body and a connection end (110) projecting substantially perpendicularly from the connector body and oriented substantially opposite to the bushing receiving end, wherein the bushing receiving end is configured to receive a switchgear bushing (111) therein. A grounding device (113) is configured for insertion into the connection end of the connector, wherein the grounding device is configured to conductively connect to the switchgear bushing. The grounding devices include an exposed conductive portion (140) configured to engage a grounded hot line clamp, during grounding of the electrical connector assembly. An insulated cap (124) is provided to cover the exposed conductive portion of the grounding device during normal operation of the electrical connector.